RSPCA Queensland is looking for 300 new animal lovers in Queensland to sign up to become foster carers for cats, dogs and other animals this winter.

“Our animals would love nothing more than to snuggle up in your home this winter for a few weeks or more,” says RSPCA Queensland spokesperson Emma Lagoon.

“Our ability to place animals into foster care has been significantly impacted due to external factors and animals needing care at the RSPCA for longer.”

Right now across the state, over 100 cats, dogs, puppies, kittens, small animals, birds, mums and their bubs are all patiently waiting for foster homes. With a great need for cat foster carers and those with secure fences to help medium to large sized dogs.

Foster carers help by:

  • Providing a home environment for animals that need time out from shelter life
  • Assisting animals recovering from surgery that need crate rest and light exercise
  • Caring for puppies and kittens while they wait to reach a certain age/weight for desexing

When COVID-19 first affected RSPCA shelter operations back in 2020, there was an overwhelming response from members of the public applying to become foster carers. “Sadly, we are really struggling to find animals temporary homes away from shelter life because people have started going back to the workplace,” Ms Lagoon says.

Whether you work full time, part time, or from home, the RSPCA will match a foster pet to your lifestyle. Even if you’re renting, you can still foster once you have landlord approval.

“The great thing about fostering is that all your food, veterinary and essential pet needs are provided for your foster animal. It is a great way to help an animal in need when you can’t commit to a pet long-term,” says Ms Lagoon.

To sign up to become a foster carer, apply on the RSPCA website today.