Can you help foster an animal? | RSPCA - RSPCA
Foster an animal
We rely on fosterers to provide temporary homes for the animals in our care. Fostering an animal can help them recover from neglect, abuse, illness or injury. These are the first steps towards finding a new, loving forever home.
When you foster an animal you'll also be freeing up space in our centres so that we can rescue more animals in desperate need.
Could you become an animal foster carer?
We need more people willing to open up their homes, and their hearts, to help give dogs, cats or horses a fresh start in life.
How fostering helps animals
Animal fostering is an important role. It helps play a vital part in the rehabilitation of animals and helps improve their chance of finding a new home.
Many animals that we take in have either suffered or are not used to the care and affection that they deserved. Living with a foster family provides them with one-to-one care, allowing them to build up their confidence and get used to a normal lifestyle.
Some animals don't cope well in an animal centre environment or need to remain in our care for a long period of time whilst legal proceedings take place. This is where we need fosterers to provide them with a real home, even if it is only on a temporary basis.
How fostering helps you
It's rewarding to know that you played a key part in helping a rescued animal recover from a life of suffering and start a new life. You'll get to meet and care for animals with unique personalities and see them rehomed to a new family.
Fostering also gives people who would normally be unable to take in an animal long-term, due to other commitments, an alternative.
Want to help animals in another way?
If you're not quite ready to help provide temporary foster care to animals in our care, but would still like to help why not sponsor a dog kennel or cat pod?
You'll receive regular updates about how you're generous gift is helping rescued animals start a new life.