How did you start volunteering as a foster carer for ARF?

I started fostering for ARF back in 2014. I had decided I wanted to foster as I didn’t want another dog as I wasn’t coping with the thought I’d have to make ‘the decision’ in regards to my dog (he was 17) so thought fostering was a great option as I wouldn’t have to make that call. My initial application was rejected as there were concerns over the age of my current dog. I refused to take ‘no’ for an answer as I had decided it was in my dog’s best interest to foster a dog. My mentor came to assess both me and my dog in person and I picked up my first foster Jethro about 3 weeks later.

What makes a good foster carer? What does it involve?

To me it comes down to someone that really wants to give a dog a chance, being patient and able to cope during the bad times as well as the good. It involves giving your foster the best chance of finding their forever home, including training and helping them overcome any issues they may have. Most of my fosters have been more of a longer-term foster and it’s been lots of work taking them to various training sessions etc. It also takes time going through applications for your foster and taking them for meet and greets.

What has been the most difficult/most surprising moment of being a foster carer for you?

I think the most difficult part of fostering is saying goodbye when they go to their new home. In saying that, it’s also the most rewarding. One of my long-term fosters, the gorgeous Roxy, was quite difficult to rehome. I think I was her 3rd carer. I was on the verge of keeping her (as I was with the gorgeous Emily as well and a few others) when I took her to a meet and greet. I wasn’t actually expecting much as it hadn’t been a match with anyone previously, but she walked into this house as though she owned it. It honestly looked like she was meant to be there. I really didn’t want to let her go but it was so obvious this was her home.

Tell us the story about how you adopted Chuckles? What has the journey been like with them?

Chuckles came into foster care back in January 2017 and boy did he turn out to be a hard dog to rehome…. Turns out you can’t rehome a dog that runs and hides from potential adopters. About 9 months later, after extensive training, he had improved so much but was still not going to be easy to rehome. I think he just decided he wanted to stay here. Four years on, he is living his best life. He is still very nervous around people but once he knows you, he loves you. He loves his walks and runs, and loves play dates with other dogs. He is a super happy boy and is a great foster brother to any other fosters I take on. His current bestie is a cat. He’s cheeky, loveable, and sometimes naughty and I’m so glad he chose to stay with me (even though he has learnt to open the fridge and pull everything out).

What was the most rewarding moment of being Chuckles’ foster carer?

Watching him relax when he realises that no matter where we are, he is ok. It’s a slow process getting him to relax totally, but it’s wonderful to see when he does.

What else can you say about your time in ARF?

I’ve loved my time with ARF. Everyone has been very supportive and focused on what is in the dog’s best interest. I’ve been able to learn so much through the fostering process and from the people involved. I don’t foster as often as I’d like due to long working hours, but can’t wait to do it again!