Fostering | Fostering Application Form



Fostering Program

The fostering program provides a temporary home for animals in need that aren't ready to go to a permanent home. These animals include the fit and healthy, the young and old, the sick and injured, and sometimes animals with special behavioural needs.

We need help with kittens, cats, puppies, dogs, rabbits, hedgehogs, and baby birds. Fostering is an unpaid volunteer position working for Wellington SPCA.

Fostering is often a seasonal business. We need kittens fostered from August through to May and baby birds fostered throughout the spring time. Puppies, dogs and rabbits may require fostering at any time of the year.

The shelter will;

•  supply the animals to be fostered

•  provide all the food, supplies and information you need to care for the animals

•  provide veterinary care when needed

•  find homes for the animals after they come back to the shelter.

We are looking for people who;

•  are over 18 years of age

•  who own their own home (or have landlords consent)

•  will take full responsibility for the animals while in their care

•  have plenty of time to care for animals

•  have lots of energy to socialise and train animals

•  have previous experience in caring for animals

•  have a separate room in their home, away from other animals and kids

•  have healthy and vaccinated pets at home

•  can provide transport between the shelter and their home

•  are prepared to return the animals to the shelter for adoption to new owners

•  are willing to give up the animals they have hand raised when they are ready for adoption.

What different animals need

Kittens need

•  a separate room with a feeding area, an area for a litter tray, and a play area

•  lots of handling in order to socialise them.

Puppies need

•  a small kennel or room inside the house to provide warmth and shelter

•  an outdoor area to exercise

•  lots of handling to socialise and train them.

Adult dogs need

•  a kennel outside or room inside the house to provide warmth and shelter

•  an outdoor area to provide exercise

•  lots of handling and training.

Rabbits need

•  a warm waterproof cage to sleep in

•  an outdoor exercise area, with access to grass, and protection from dogs and cats

•  lots of handling in order to socialise them.

Baby birds need

•  a warm quiet area indoors

•  protection from cats.

How to apply

Be prepared, fostering is a demanding and tiring business. To apply to become a fosterer you will need to;

•  fill out an application form Fostering Application Form

•  be interviewed by the fostering co-ordinator

•  have your property inspected

•  allow regular visits from shelter staff to check on the animals

•  agree to and sign the fostering contract

Please note that animals being fostered are the property of Wellington SPCA.