An urgent appeal has been issued for volunteer foster carers who can provide a temporary home to dogs in need like Merle as they await a fresh start.
Dogs Trust Cumbria said it was continuing to receive a high number of enquiries from people facing the decision to give up the dogs they love, so the need for foster carers had never been greater.
There is no traditional rehoming centre in the county, so the team at Dogs Trust Cumbria in Penrith relies solely on volunteer foster carers to look after dogs in their home before they are adopted.
Last year, Dogs Trust Cumbria found forever homes for over 150 dogs, including 22 large-breed dogs.
The team is appealing for more foster carers who live within an hour’s drive of Penrith and, in particular, fosterers who can look after large breeds or those with specific veterinary requirements that might require a longer stay in foster.
Dogs Trust provides everything required to support each foster dog, from food and bedding to covering all costs including veterinary treatment if needed.
Lisa Spence, transfer centre manager at Dogs Trust Cumbria, said: “With the number of dogs needing help remaining high due to the Covid pandemic and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, the need for foster carers has never been greater.
“There are so many amazing dogs waiting for a safe, loving place to rest temporarily while we find them their forever homes, and we can only help them, thanks to our incredible foster carers.
“At Dogs Trust, we support our foster carers every step of the way, including paying all costs. We are looking for people who can offer their time and provide a safe space in their homes for a dog in need.
” We’re especially looking for foster carers open to caring for different breeds including large dogs, and dogs that might need at least four weeks of tender loving care. If you’ve ever considered fostering, there’s never been a more important time to give us a call. One dog, one home — it really can change everything.”
You can meet the Dogs Trust Cumbria team at the May Day event in Penrith on Monday May 5 at the charity’s stall, where you can hear more about rehoming, fostering and volunteering.
Crossbreed Merle is currently enjoying life in foster care. Merle is a sweet-natured dog who likes other dogs so could potentially live with a doggy pal in her forever home.
For more information about Merle or fostering contact the Dogs Trust Cumbria team at [email protected] or call 01768 870 617.
