Dog Foster Volunteer

As a Dog Foster Volunteer, you’ll provide a safe and stable home for dogs needing planned or emergency care.

This may include dogs in training, partnered dogs, change-of-career dogs, or retired dogs waiting for rehoming. Your support ensures every dog receives consistent care.

Opportunities may include holiday cover, emergency placements, rehabilitation support, or longer-term care.

Unlike our Assistance Dog Training Volunteer role, this position is not based at our National Training Centre and does not involve regular weekday attendance.

Fostering arrangements vary depending on the dog’s needs.

Some placements are short term, while others may require longer commitments. We’ll discuss availability with you in advance so expectations are clear from the start.

The primary fosterer must be 18 or over and live in a house, bungalow or ground floor flat with a secure, non-shared garden. As the dog lives with you, their care is a full-time responsibility within your home.

Access to your own transport is required for vet visits. You may have up to two pet dogs over 18 months, subject to assessment.

You’ll complete an induction process including a telephone interview, home visit, and handling sessions.

We’ll provide ongoing guidance from a dedicated staff contact, along with resources and training as needed. Pre-approved expenses such as mileage can be reimbursed.

This role may suit you if you can provide a calm, secure home environment, and are flexible to meet a dog’s individual needs.

You’ll need to be over 18, have your own transport, and a secure garden. It’s ideal if you’re patient, reliable, and comfortable caring for dogs at different stages of their journey. 

You can also explore different volunteer roles to discover other ways to get involved.