Sometimes, you don’t have to be in a dog’s life forever to change it completely.
Every year, rescue dogs arrive at Jerry Green Dog Rescue needing different kinds of support. Some are recovering from surgery, some need a quieter space away from kennels, and others simply benefit from experiencing life in a home while they wait for their forever family.
That’s where dog fostering can make a life-changing difference.
If you’ve ever wondered how to foster a rescue dog, what it’s like to become a dog foster carer, or whether foster care for dogs could be right for you, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Dog fostering means providing a safe, temporary home for a rescue dog while they continue their dog rehoming journey.
Unlike dog adoption, fostering isn’t about making a lifelong commitment. Instead, you give the time, stability and care they need while Jerry Green Dog Rescue finds the right forever home through our trusted Meet&Match® process.
During their stay, you’ll help them experience everyday home life while our welfare team continues to support both you and your foster dog.
Every rescue dog who comes into our care has their own story.
While many settle happily at one of our rescue centres, others benefit from spending time in a home environment. This might include dogs recovering from surgery, older dogs, puppies, or dogs who just need some one-on-one attention.
Living with a foster family helps our welfare team learn more about each dog’s personality, daily routines and preferences. These observations help us find the right forever home through our Meet&Match® process, while also creating space in our centres to welcome another dog in need.
Harper’s story is a wonderful example of the difference dog fostering can make.
When Harper arrived at Jerry Green Dog Rescue as a stray after spending time in a pound, she needed time, patience and kindness to begin rebuilding her confidence. After a month in our kennels, a wonderful foster family welcomed her into their home, giving her the chance to experience everyday life in a calm, loving environment.
Since moving into foster care, Harper has settled into family life, enjoying daily routines and discovering the playful, affectionate personality that was waiting to shine through. Along the way, her foster family have shared valuable updates with our welfare team, helping us better understand the type of home where Harper will truly thrive.
Everything we’ve learned through Harper’s foster placement will help us find the right forever family through Meet&Match®, giving both Harper and her future adopters the best chance of a happy future together.
Becoming a dog foster carer is an incredibly rewarding way to make a difference without the lifelong commitment of adopting a rescue dog.
Many of our foster carers tell us they enjoy:
If you love dogs, have a safe, home environment and can offer time, patience and kindness, you could make an incredible volunteer dog foster carer.
When you foster a rescue dog with Jerry Green Dog Rescue, you’re never doing it alone.
You don’t need to be a dog expert, whether you can foster for a few weeks or a little longer, our experienced welfare team will provide guidance throughout your foster journey.
We’ll provide your foster dog’s food, bedding, toys and veterinary care, so you can focus on helping them settle into family life. You’ll share valuable observations that help us find the right forever home through Meet&Match®.
If you’ve been thinking about fostering a rescue dog, there’s never been a better time to make a difference.
Fostering provides a temporary home while a dog waits for adoption. When you adopt, you make a lifelong commitment and become the dog’s permanent owner.
Every foster placement is different. Some dogs stay for a few weeks, while others may need a foster home for longer depending on their individual needs and how quickly they’re matched with a new family.
Not at all. Our welfare team are on hand to support you every step of the way and answer any questions that you may have.
No, becoming a dog foster carer will be at no cost to yourself. Jerry Green Dog Rescue provides your foster dog’s food, bedding, toys and any veterinary treatment they need during their stay.
Yes, our team will match potential foster dogs to the right homes to ensure a positive experience for all.
Our welfare team will always aim to match you with a dog that suits your home, experience and lifestyle, ensuring the best outcome for both you and the dog.
While the goal is to help dogs find the right forever home, there are occasions where foster carers decide to adopt their foster dog if it’s the right match for everyone involved.
Many foster carers describe it as one of the most rewarding ways to support dogs in need. Knowing you’ve helped a dog prepare for their forever home can be incredibly fulfilling.
To apply to become a foster carer, simply complete the form and our Volunteering Team will be in touch with next steps.
