Fostering With Us
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At Rocky Road Rescue, we are always looking for compassionate foster carers for both dogs and cats. We seek applicants who are open to fostering dogs of all sizes and have experience with dogs that may face behavioural challenges, such as fear, anxiety, or difficulty adjusting to a home environment. There may also be occasions where specific behaviour and training programs are needed to help the dogs overcome these challenges as they settle into their new homes.
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Becoming a Foster Carer means providing crucial support for lost, abandoned, and unwanted animals, helping prepare them for their new homes.
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Fostering also offers the rescue a unique opportunity to observe the animals in a domestic setting, allowing us to better understand their needs and match them with the right forever family.
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What Type of Animals Will I Be Able to Foster?
Most of the dogs in our care require foster homes due to behavioural or stress-related reasons. Some dogs are brought over because they have been overlooked for adoption and are more likely to find a home in the UK. These dogs may be shy, nervous, or even "shut down," and fostering provides them with the time and environment they need to adjust and thrive. We will always ensure that the dog is suitable for your home and will thoroughly discuss the details of the dog with you beforehand so that you are fully informed.
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Our foster dogs vary in both size and age, so it’s important that carers are comfortable handling everything from large adult dogs to young puppies. In some cases, foster carers may be asked to follow behaviour training programs to support the dog in overcoming unwanted behaviours and adjusting to life in a home environment.
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Our cats are typically young adults and come in various sizes. They can also be fostered in homes with children.
Fostering Requirements at Rocky Road Rescue
We’re looking for committed, compassionate individuals with relevant experience and a genuine desire to help dogs and cats transition into their forever homes. To ensure the safety and wellbeing of both animals and foster carers, we kindly ask that potential fosters meet the following criteria:
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General Requirements
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Dog Experience: We are looking for foster homes with previous experience, ideally with rescue dogs or dogs with behavioural challenges.
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Children in the Home: Some dogs may be suitable to live with children, but this is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
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Time at Home: Foster dogs require minimal time left alone. Most dogs, especially early in their placement, cannot be left alone and need time alone built up gradually.
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Exercise: Someone in the household must be physically able, willing, and available to provide adequate daily exercise for the dog.
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Landlord Permission: If you rent, you must have written permission to foster animals.
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Cat Fostering: We require a range of home environments for cats. Each cat will be matched based on their specific needs and your household setup.
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No Conflicts: We cannot place dogs in homes where:
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There are dogs covered under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.
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There are currently foster dogs from another rescue.
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Dogs are being privately sold.
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Animal Welfare History: You must not have any history of prosecution for animal cruelty or neglect.
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Home Setup
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A private, secure garden is highly beneficial for fostering dogs. If you do not have one, dogs must be kept on a long lead when outside.
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Proximity to a veterinary practice or reliable access to one is essential. We cover all veterinary costs.
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Foster Support and Expectations
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Training & Guidance: You will receive full support and guidance from our Aftercare Team. We ask that you follow our advice and behavioural programs to give the animal the best possible chance at success.
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Supplies: Foster carers are expected to provide a bed, collar, lead, and food. However, if this is a barrier to fostering, exceptions can be considered at the discretion of Rocky Road Rescue.
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Commitment: We are looking for fosters who are willing to commit long-term. Foster placements can last anywhere from 2–3 weeks to several months, depending on the dog's needs and adoption progress. Stability is key to their success.​
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If you're ready to offer a safe, patient, and loving environment, we'd love to hear from you. Your role as a foster carer is a critical part of helping an animal find their forever home.
What Do I Need to Do as a Foster Carer?
Before applying, we kindly ask that you read through our
Fostering FAQs to ensure you have a clear understanding of the role and responsibilities involved.
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​Fostering is an incredibly rewarding experience and offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the life of an animal—particularly those who may be struggling in a kennel environment. As a foster carer, you’ll play a vital role in helping dogs or cats adjust to a home setting, preparing them for adoption and giving them the best possible start in their new life.
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Ready to Become a Foster Carer?
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Have you read our Foster FAQ's and feel prepared to open your home to a dog or cat in need?
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Apply here to start your fostering journey with Rocky Road Rescue.
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