Fostering animals is not as big of a commitment as you might think, according to an experienced animal carer and volunteer.
The DSPCA’s Annie Doran has fostered 83 animals over the years and said there are options available to suit everyone.
The animal rescue service has recorded a “huge increase” of abandoned dogs in Ireland in recent years.
On Moncrieff today, Ms Doran has urged people to consider fostering an animal.
“You still have access to animals to make a difference in their lives but it’s not that long-term equipment needed to adopt,” she said.
“If you foster, then everyone in the family can see what’s involved in taking care of an animal, how much food is involved, and whether is it a fit for your family.”
Needed now
Fostering is needed now more than ever, according to Ms Doran.
“There has been a huge increase from what I’ve seen and from what I’ve heard from people working full-time in the DSPCA,” she said.
“You’ve seen it in the news yourself where dogs might have been abandoned in a graveyard or thrown into plastic bags – there is so much of that.
“It is shocking, but thankfully animals are being rescued and given another chance.
“The ones you hear in the news go to foster families and these are the people that help animals get over the trauma they have gone to.”
Thank you to everyone who supported our Christmas campaign. There are so many Good Humans out there who helped make a difference to the many animals in our care. All the staff, volunteers & animals wish you all a very Merry Christmas 🧡🐾🎄#christmastime #dspca #whosagoodhuman pic.twitter.com/kOe427iGZ3
— DSPCA (@DublinSPCA) December 25, 2023
Ms Doran said the length of stay for an animal could change from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the situation.
“It could be just that a puppy comes in and needs rest after an operation and they need a home for a week or two weeks,” she said.
“It’s such a diverse range of requirements that could fit into anyone’s life really.
“It’s not a major long-term commitment if you don’t have the time.”
DSPCA help
The DSPCA also helps out in whatever ways it can.
"Whatever is needed, the foster department will send you away with that stuff,” said Ms Doran.
“They will then send you off with your litter tray, with trays of food, and you are just expected to come up when they need any veterinary checks and stuff like that.
“The foster department will supply you with all of the bits and bobs they need – for dogs there will be a carry crate, there will be leads.”
More information on how to foster an animal can be found on the DSPCA’s website.
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Main image: Abandoned dog in rescue center. Credit: Peter Devlin / Alamy Stock Photo
