Become a Foster Carer
The fostering of animals is an important and rewarding part of the work that RSPCA NSW volunteers and staff undertake and gives those animals that would not normally be able to be re-homed a wonderful start in life before moving on to suitable, lifelong homes.
The purpose of foster care is to place into temporary care those animals who are not suitable to be housed in the shelter environment, whether they are too young or small to be eligible for adoption, are recovering from illness or surgery, or have behavioural reasons such as being timid or not coping at the shelter.
If you are thinking of applying to become an RSPCA Foster Carer please consider the following:
- Many of the animals that require fostering have already been through stressful changes so as their carer you may be faced with a period of adjustment where the animal, particularly older ones, may be unresponsive or afraid. This is usually overcome with time and patience.
- It is in the animal’s best interest to stay with the same foster carer until they are permanently re-homed; transferring between foster homes should be avoided so it is best to make sure that you have the time and resources available before taking on an animal.
- If you have your own pets they must be fully vaccinated and ideally desexed. In the case of fostering a dog we require that you bring your dog/s into the shelter with you to make sure they are suitable to live together.
- Time must be spent interacting with your fostered animal, this is especially important when they are young or the animal has a behavioural problem. Make sure that you are aware of exactly what type of training/modification is required and determine if you have the time and ability to carry it out before you take on an animal.
- The RSPCA is unable to provide transport to and from the shelter so it will up to you to pick up and drop off your foster animals, as well as to bring them in for any vet checks they may need while in your care.
In order to become a Foster Carer you must first join the RSPCA as a member, attend an Information Session and have a Premise Inspection so we can discuss with you what types of animals and how many at a time you would be best suited to foster.
For further information or to register your interest in the RSPCA Sydney Shelter Foster Care Program please contact:
Lauren Dovey: Foster Care - Administrative Assistant
fostercare@rspcansw.org.au
For all other foster care enquires outside of Sydney, please enquire with your local RSPCA Shelter or Volunteer Branche. Please click HERE to visit our Shelters & Branches information page.
Frequently Asked Questions;
What types of animals need foster care?
Baby animals who are too young to be rehomed, mothers with litters, animals who require rest or rehabilitation after surgery or those with treatable medical conditions, animals who require socialisation or behavioural rehabilitation, and some animals who just need a place to temporarily call their own
How long will you have a foster animal for?
This can range from one week to a few months, and will depend on the requirements of the animal. An estimated time frame will be discussed with the foster carer before they agree to take the animal on
What does the RSPCA provide?
Food, kitty litter, all veterinary treatments and advice, behavioural support, and items such as leads, crates, cages etc
What do the animals need from their foster parent?
A safe and secure environment, exercise and reliable transport to and from the Sydney Shelter, and lots of TLC! No qualifications, formal training or experience needed, we will help you along the way
What if you work fulltime?
Most foster animals are ok to be left alone in a secure place at home during working hours. High care animals are sent to experienced foster carers who are able to give them that extra attention
So where do you go from here to start helping these animals?
Contact your local RSPCA Shelter to register your interest. They will be able to advise if they are currently recruiting new foster carers and you may be able to begin the application process. You will be asked to become an RSPCA NSW Member, be provided with a Foster Carer Application Form, a Foster Carer Manual, and we will conduct a premise inspection at your home
