Dogs Trust Ilfracombe issues urgent appeal for more local foster carers

Dogs Trust Ilfracombe urgently needs to recruit more foster carers following a wave of enquiries from people looking to rehome their dogs.

The centre near West Down has already received almost 200 enquiries so far this year from people who have taken the difficult decision to give up their pets. Nationally, Dogs Trust has received 700 enquiries.

The charity says having more foster carers on board will help to free up valuable space in the rehoming centre, making room for even more dogs who need our support.

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Fostering also helps the charity learn how dogs behave in a home environment, making it easier to match the dogs to their forever homes.

Centre manager Elise Watson said: “With so many dogs needing our help right now, foster carers are absolutely vital. By offering a temporary home, you’re giving a dog safety, comfort and love at a time when they need it most.

“We know many dogs don't cope well in a kennel environment, so Dogs Trust Ilfracombe is focusing on fostering as an alternative for those that would find kennel life hard.

“Fostering is such a rewarding experience, and a way to make a real difference without a long-term commitment. If you're interested in becoming a Dogs Trust foster carer, please call us, or apply online.”

The Ilfracombe centre changed the way it operates earlier last year as part of a major national restructuring of Dogs Trust, with more focus on expanding the fostering network to enable a more direct rehoming approach and keeping fewer dogs in kennels.

There is no cost to anyone who fosters, with the charity covering the cost of food, bedding, vet treatment and other items while the dogs are in a foster home.

Dogs Trust says fostering offers all the joys of having a dog without the long-term commitment and with the flexibility to take a break whenever needed.

The charity also shares its training expertise with foster carers, helping them to build confidence and gain a deeper understanding of dogs and their behaviour.

To find out more or to apply to become a Dogs Trust foster carer, please visit https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/fostering

What do you need to become a Dogs Trust foster carer?

* You must be aged 18 and over.

* Ideally live in an adult-only home, but applications from homes with children aged 10 and above will be considered.

* You must be located in Devon, as foster dogs may need to visit regularly to see the vet or training team for support, or to meet potential new families.

* You may have other pets in the home, but dogs should be vaccinated and neutered and cats should be dog-savvy.

* You are open to fostering dogs with medical conditions, who might require more patience and understanding.

* You can be flexible and open to caring for dogs of different breeds, ages, sizes and temperaments.

Visits to Dogs Trust Ilfracombe are now by appointment only. If you would like to apply to adopt a dog, please fill in an online application form and if a match is found, the charity will arrange an appointment for you to meet them.

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