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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 Yagoona Shelter Foster Care Program please contact:

Hannah Burfitt
Co-ordinator, Animal Welfare Support
9770 7578
hburfitt@rspcansw.org.au

To enquire with a RSPCA Shelter or Volunteer Branch, please click here to visit our Shelters & Branches information page.