Pet Fostering

BEFORE YOU VISIT THE AWLQ TO FOSTER AN ANIMAL PLEASE ENSURE YOU HAVE THE FOLLOWING:

Before you apply to become a foster carer, please consider the following:

• Suitable transportation equipment – investing in a sturdy cat carrier for cats and small puppies and a lead for dogs is a good idea. All animals must be transported inside the vehicle and restrained with a harness or seatbelt. Animals cannot be transported on the back of utes.
• Animal handling experience – you need to be comfortable and confident handling animals. You have basic knowledge of how to care for them, feeding, toileting, etc. This can include previously having pets of your own.
• Suitable accommodation – ensuring you can have pets at your house, keep them inside when required and have a suitable room/area to house them. If you have a yard, they will have access to the fencing that must be secure and protected from the elements. Please note that cats and kittens must be contained indoors at all times.
• Pet equipment – AWLQ can lend you everything you need to start as a foster carer and will supply your foster pet’s food, litter and medication. However, it would be greatly appreciated if you could have supplies ready for your foster animals, such as food and water bowls, bedding, a brush, a litter tray for cats, and toys for them to play with.
• Time and commitment – deciding to be a foster carer is a big responsibility. We depend on you to care for your foster pet to a high standard for a specific time. Foster periods can be between 1-8 weeks.
• Dependable and punctual – you will have set recheck and vet appointments to which you will need to bring your foster pet. You must keep your appointments as this allows our vets and staff to help as many animals as possible.
• Patience and affection – your foster pet will need you to care for their emotional and mental well-being and see to their physical needs. Spending time with them and socialising is key to their future happiness.
• Existing pets in the home – you can foster if you already have pets; AWLQ asks that all cats and dogs will need to be up to date with their vaccinations, and we do ask you to keep existing cats and dogs separate from any foster cats and kittens. A bathroom or laundry works perfectly for this. Please consider the personality and health of your existing pets when considering fostering.
• Council regulations – please make sure you are aware of any local council regulations regarding keeping pets.
• Reliable transport – your foster animal will have regular vet appointments at AWLQ that you will need to attend. You must also have access to reliable transportation in case of an emergency.