The RSPCA is inviting animal lovers to discover the positive impact of fostering rescue pets as part of this year’s ‘Big Do’ community celebrations.
The nationwide initiative takes place from June 5-8 and includes The Big Help Out, which encourages people to try volunteering and make a difference in their local area.
As part of The Big Help Out, the RSPCA will host special fostering events at five of its animal centres across England on Saturday 6 June, giving visitors the chance to learn more about becoming a foster carer and how fostering helps rescue animals in their recovery and rehabilitation.
Many of the animals cared for by the RSPCA are involved in cases of cruelty, abandonment or neglect, and are waiting for their owner’s case to go through the courts. During this time – which can last months, or even years – foster homes provide animals with the comfort, stability and love of a home environment, rather than a prolonged stay in kennels. This then helps them be ready for full adoption once legal proceedings conclude.
The RSPCA animal centres hosting fostering events on 6 June:
Ashley Heath Animal Centre, Dorset (BH24 2ET)
Newbrook Animal Centre, Birmingham (B32 4AX)
Southridge Animal Centre, Hertfordshire (EN6 3LZ)
Leybourne Animal Centre, Kent (ME19 5HW)
West Hatch Animal Centre, Somerset (TA3 5RT)
One dog whose life was transformed through fostering was Orton, who arrived at an RSPCA West Hatch Animal Centre in a very poor condition suffering from hair loss, sore skin and multiple lumps.
Knowing he had a long road to recovery ahead, Orton was placed into foster care where he could recover in a calm home environment while receiving treatment and support.
His foster carer, Jackie Hampton, from Bridgwater, Somerset, said: “Orton’s coat was in poor condition due to skin infections and he needed regular baths to begin with to address these.
“When he arrived with me, he could be very excitable, and reactive to the slightest thing. Caring for him involved medication, lots of walks and plenty of patience.
“Despite the challenges, it was so rewarding to see the changes in him – less pulling on the lead, less reactivity, and his coat recovered so well. He absolutely loved cuddles, belly rubs and stretching out across the sofa.
“Fostering is such a joy because you really do see the transformation in an animal, physically and emotionally. It’s incredibly fulfilling knowing you’ve helped them on their journey to finding a forever home. That’s not to say you don’t feel sad when they move on, but it’s a wonderful feeling knowing they’ve found the right match.”
After spending time with Jackie, recovering and building confidence, Orton eventually found the perfect adopter and is now thriving in his forever home.
The RSPCA says fosterers are becoming even more vital as animal welfare organisations continue to face growing pressure with an increasing number of animals coming through its doors.
The RSPCA often cares for animals who have been rescued from cruelty and neglect investigations, and need veterinary treatment, behavioural support and rehabilitation, which can mean they take longer to find suitable adopters. A rise in large-scale rescues, involving multiple animals, has placed further strain on centres, making foster carers more important than ever.
The Big Do, led by the Eden Project, brings communities together through a number of initiatives including The Big Help Out and The Big Lunch.
Alongside fostering, the RSPCA is also encouraging people to get involved by signing up as a Wildlife Friend – a flexible, remote volunteering role people can do from their own homes or local green spaces – or by taking part in one-day volunteering activities, such as litter picking, supporting pet food banks and fundraising.
Becca Sparks, fostering manager at the RSPCA said: “Our fosterers provide a lifeline for animals who may have experienced trauma or uncertainty.
“Being in a home environment can make a huge difference to an animal’s recovery and wellbeing, especially for those who may spend a long time in our care while investigations continue.
“Like many charities, we are seeing more animals needing help, so foster carers allow us to continue rescuing vulnerable animals and give them the individual care, stability and love they need.
“The Big Help Out is a fantastic opportunity for people to discover how they can support animals in their community – whether that’s through fostering, volunteering, fundraising or helping wildlife in their local area.
“We’d encourage anyone who may be able to open up their home, even temporarily to come along to one of our fostering events, and find out more.”
People interested in becoming an RSPCA fosterer or volunteering for the charity during the Big Help Out can find out more by visiting the RSPCA website.
The nationwide initiative takes place from June 5-8 and includes The Big Help Out, which encourages people to try volunteering and make a difference in their local area.
As part of The Big Help Out, the RSPCA will host special fostering events at five of its animal centres across England on Saturday 6 June, giving visitors the chance to learn more about becoming a foster carer and how fostering helps rescue animals in their recovery and rehabilitation.
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