Fostering information

 


Without our own rehoming kennels and cattery we have to place the animals in our care either in a boarding kennel/cattery or in foster homes.  Where it is possible to place an animal in foster we prefer to do so.  Not only does this save on kennelling fees but more importantly, it means the animal can be in a home environment which is usually much better for them and has other benefits.


  • The animal is able to stay in a home environment which is often less stressful for them than kennels

  • Training and rehabilitation needs can be considered.

  • The fosterer gets to know the animal, its likes and dislikes, training needs and personality. This means a better match can be made with potential adopters and adopters can be provided with advice tailored for that animal. 


Fosterers provide a much-needed temporary home for animals while they receive rehabilitation or  are waiting to find a suitable permanent home.


Food, litter and litter trays (for cats), medications and other necessary expenses are covered by the RSPCA (but not treats, toys or other inessentials).  Veterinary treatment is available through the RSPCA clinic in Cambridge, so we do ask that fosterers are able to transport animals to the clinic for routine treatments and check-ups as this is a lot cheaper for us than using private veterinary clinics. 


We need fosterers for cats, dogs, rabbits and small cage animals.  A brief idea of the requirements for these are given below but please email us for more information.  


Cats: Cats need to be kept indoors whilst fostered and will need a separate room to keep them in. Some cats that come into our care are rehabilitating after injury or illness and need special care.  


Dogs: You will need a securely enclosed garden area and someone home for most of the time so they are not left alone for long periods.  You will also need to be able to give the dog regular exercise and in some cases help with training.  You will be given full support with this. 


Rabbits:  


We're looking for people who would consider fostering rabbits, and also for experienced rabbit carers who might be able to help and support new fosterers and anyone who could help with putting up rabbit runs.


Rabbits are very popular pets but they are extremely difficult to care for to a high welfare standard.  It's important that foster setups which adopters will be viewing set a good example of accommodation that is suitable for housing rabbits in.  This means that fosterers need a suitable area of level grass or concrete for the site.  Hutches and runs will be supplied and paid for by the RSPCA but require a fair amount of effort (and DIY skills!) to set up, so we would ask that fosterers are able to commit to fostering for a reasonable length of time because this type of housing is difficult to dismantle and re-use elsewhere.  


If you might be interested in helping with this, please email rehoming@rspcacambridge.org.uk

 




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