The DSPCA is encouraging people to consider fostering an animal this Easter as the volume of strays at their shelter remains high.
The animal shelter is attempting to rehome numerous dogs following reports they had hit capacity last month. The charity often promotes its fostering campaign during school holidays, when families have more time on their hands to cater to a pet.
DSPCA spokesperson Gillian Bird explained that short term fostering can be a great asset to families unsure about adopting an animal. She said that fostering is particularly important for the charity as a new season approaches.
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Gillian said: "We're still rehoming but we're also moving into a new season as well - that's why there's a bit of a push so there's time to get our fosterers lined up. Fostering is a really good idea as it can help people realise ahead of time that it might not work out after the first week or so."
The charity is not only looking for short term homes for dogs, but cats as well. Rescued kittens in particular often lack the socialisation needed to live in a family home after spending most of their short lives in a shelter.
Gillian said that families should approach fostering with the mindset that the pet needs a temporary home. However, she admitted that it is common for people to have a change of heart and adopt the new addition as a permanent member of the family.
She said: "People who end up adopting their foster pets are often jokingly called 'failed fosterers.' Whether people decide to do that or stick to the short term fostering, it's a really good experience for people and a valuable life lesson."
People interested in fostering should fill out an application form with the DSPCA. There are some guidelines to keep in mind before applying. All fosterers must be 18 years old and ideally should have their own transport, as pets are sometimes required to return to the DSPCA for vaccinations and other routine check ups.
Additionally, fosterers must have permission to take in an animal if they are not the property owners of their home. Further information on the DSPCA's fostering programme is available on their website.
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