Become a foster carer

The fostering of animals, large and small, is an important and rewarding part of the work that RSPCA Tasmania volunteers and staff undertake.

Foster care gives animals that are initially not fit to be re-homed a wonderful start in life, before moving on to suitable, lifelong homes.

The purpose of foster care is to place animals into temporary care; this aims to help animals that are not suitable to be housed in an animal care centre environment. This may be due to the fact that the fostered animals  are too young or too small for adoption. Or it could be because they are recovering from illness or surgery, or they have behavioural issues, such as being timid, or simply not coping at the centre.

Who can foster care

We’re happy to talk about fostering to anyone with a passion for helping animals. We need to consider the foster environment, such as what sort of fencing you have, and the amount of time you can dedicate to the animal.

RSPCA Tasmania will cover all direct costs relating to the animal. This includes food, veterinary care and medications, bedding and grooming. We do not expect you to be out of pocket as you help rehabilitate these animals. Only your love and time is required, along with presenting the animal at its best for re-homing.

All dogs and cats are behaviour-tested and vet-checked before they are placed into foster care.

Rewards

Our foster carers are well looked after. We offer training in a variety of areas, and recognise the efforts made by our foster volunteers to make a difference to the animals they foster.

Most carers undertake fostering because of the emotional reward they experience when their fostered animals find loving new homes (and sometimes the continuing friendship this brings).

If, for some reason, you cannot currently own an animal, but would love to have the company of a grateful animal, fostering may be perfect for you.

RSPCA TASMANIA FOSTER CARE FAQ

What types of animals need foster care?

foster careBaby animals who are too young to be re-homed, 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. Foster carers don’t just look after dogs and cats. We sometimes need carers for a range of animals, including poultry.

How long will you have a foster animal for?

become a foster carerThis can range from one week to a few months. It all depends on the requirements of the animal and the availability of the foster carer.

What does the RSPCA provide?

foster caring of animalsFood, kitty litter, all veterinary treatments and advice, behavioural support, and items such as leads, crates, cages and so on.

What do the animals need from their foster parent?

RSPCA Tasmania foster careA safe and secure environment, exercise, reliable transport to and from the Care Centre and lots of TLC! You don’t need qualifications, formal training or experience, because we’ll help you along the way.

What if you work fulltime?

foster careMost 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 extra attention.


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The Safe Beds & Centrepay Desex programs and animal surrenders are closed between 15/12/2023 until 2/01/2024.
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