Dogs Trust appeal for foster carers in Northern Ireland - Here's everything you need to know

Foster carers open their homes to dogs on a temporary basis until matched with their forever families. All costs are covered by Dogs Trust, including food, bedding and vet treatment.

One such foster carer is Nuala Donnelly and her partner Adam McGahan who have been fostering since October 2021. They recently waved a fond farewell to their seventh foster dog, a Staffordshire Bull terrier named Iggy who went off to their new forever home.

Nuala said: “It’s one of the best decisions we have ever made to foster for Dogs Trust. We like the new experiences caring for different breeds, quickly learning the dogs likes and dislikes. We really enjoy their differing personalities and the warmth having a dog in the home brings. Caring for a foster dog makes us go for walks and we instantly feel happy with a dog in the house. The support you receive from Dogs Trust is brilliant, one of the team is always on hand if you have any questions.

“To anyone considering fostering I would say it is such a worthwhile thing to do. From a nervous soul to a dog that is full of life and colour, you are giving them comfort in a home environment and a helping hand before they find their forever home which is so rewarding. I can’t imagine not having a dog in my life, and as we don’t own a dog at present, fostering is a perfect way to help lots of dogs.”

There are currently 18 foster carers in Northern Ireland that receive support from the charity’s Home from Home foster team at Dogs Trust Ballymena rehoming centre, however, there is a waiting list of dogs needing help.

Stephanie Scott, Coordinator of the fostering scheme, explained: “We are facing a crisis as our kennel space in Northern Ireland is really stretched. We need to act now to be there for as many dogs as possible.”

She continued: “Our foster carers give our dogs valuable experience of home life, and they get to know what makes them tick; they can tell us everything from what are their favourite toys and treats to the kind of walks they enjoy to where they like to sleep.

“All this information gives us the best chance of ensuring our fantastic rescue dogs find their ideal forever home. If you think you can open your heart and your home to help a dog get back on their paws, we would love to hear from you.”

All foster carers must be 18 years or over and either have their own garden or access to an outside space. Foster dogs cannot live in homes with cats or with children under 10 years of age.

You can find out more about fostering for Dogs Trust on the website: https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/fostering