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Dogs who need a foster family

Some of our dogs can't wait in a kennel for their story to unfold - they need a real home, right now, while we keep looking after their long-term future together with you.

Why we ask for foster carers

There are many reasons why we ask for foster carers. Fostering isn't one thing - it covers everything from a few quiet weeks of recovery to a loving, long-term home for a dog who may never be adopted.

Older or less adoptable dogsMany requests for foster care are made because a dog is old and infirm, and the likelihood of adoption is slim. We don't want them to end their days in a shelter, however well they're treated - isn't it better for them to know love and kindness in their own home?
Recovering from an operationSome dogs need a quiet environment following surgery. This foster is temporary, usually a few weeks, and they return to the shelter afterwards.
Kennel stressSome dogs simply don't do well in a shelter setting, often losing weight or becoming unwell. Foster time can vary while we look for a permanent home, which may even be abroad.
Waiting for a flight chaperoneSometimes we have a flight booked but no chaperone yet - foster care frees up shelter space while we find one, especially when we're full.
Orphaned puppiesWe don't mix litters until they're fully vaccinated, so puppies without a mother sometimes need foster care in the meantime.
Cruelty casesThese dogs need time, love, and security to learn to trust again in a safe environment. This kind of fostering generally suits people with the knowledge and time to help a dog recover.

What's covered

All vet bills, vaccinations, and worm treatment are provided by Live Paws. Food is also provided, though many foster carers prefer to buy their own - especially if they already have other dogs at home.

Is fostering right for you?

Considering a foster dog, whether temporary or permanent, is a decision that shouldn't be taken lightly - but full support is available, and you're free to ask as many questions as you like. Our aim is to match the right dog with the right person, so please be honest about your experience with dogs and any help you might need, so we can support you as well as the dog. Fostering is incredibly rewarding, and the gift of your time and love for these dogs is immeasurable.

Enquire about fostering →

Thinking about fostering a dog? We're here to support you every step of the way!

Here at Live PAWS, we have a dedicated foster team whose role is to support both our dogs and their foster carers.

We understand that, especially if you're fostering for the first time, you may sometimes feel unsure about what to do in certain situations. That's where our foster team comes in. We're always here to offer advice, guidance and reassurance whenever you need it.

When you foster with Live PAWS, you are never alone. Help is always at hand.

Live PAWS covers the costs of fostering, including veterinary bills, so you don't have to worry about unexpected vet expenses.

Some of our foster carers choose to provide their own food for their foster dog as a way of helping with costs, but this is absolutely not a requirement. Every foster home and every situation is different, and we appreciate any support you're able to give.

Fostering a dog can be incredibly rewarding. You're giving a dog a safe, loving home while they wait for their forever family, and we'll be right there beside you throughout the journey.

If you're thinking about fostering, please get in touch with us for more information. You could make a life-changing difference to a dog in need.

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