Fostering

We are always in need of more foster homes, especially those that can support special-needs, as the number of pugs being surrendered to us, is increasing.

Those with emotional needs or impaired sight may need quieter homes, sometimes without other energetic pets or young children around them.

The PDWRA does not have a rescue centre. Instead of kennels we have a national network of dedicated foster carers. Our fosterers kindly open up their homes and hearts to pugs that find themselves in need of our care. Pugs come into our rescue for a variety of reasons such as a change in working hours, an inability to pay for much needed veterinary treatment, an elderly owner going in to care, or a relationship breakdown.

We may have very limited information about the pug being surrendered to us, and a foster carer will need to be able to cope with unexpected medical or behavioural issues. However,  you will have the full support of your Volunteer Area Coordinator regarding looking after the pug and it’s needs.

Fostering can be a very rewarding experience, but it is not without challenge. Please read the information below to ensure that you are eligible and willing before applying.

What are the requirements to become a foster carer?

• Commitment and dedication, so our pugs get a fair chance to settle
• Time alone for a foster pug needs to be kept to a minimum. Once settled into your home, a foster pug should not be left for more than 4 hours, and in many cases for less time
• Experience of owning dogs, and an understanding of the pug breed
• Enthusiasm for training your foster pug
• Compassion, empathy, patience and the appreciation that every pug is an individual
• Resident dogs must be neutered

What do I need to do as a foster carer?

• Care for all the pugs needs – feeding, walking, grooming, training, socialising
• Cover the cost of the pugs food
• Transport your foster pug to veterinary appointments (the PDWRA covers vet costs)
• Administer medications and treatment when required
• Be willing to follow our guidance on training and handling
• Communicate regularly with your area coordinator

How long will I be fostering a pug for?

The length of time varies, and depends on the individual pug. Generally, pugs will be fostered until they are re-homed and we don’t always know how long this could take. Pugs will usually be fostered from a couple of weeks to a few months depending on the pug and it’s needs.

What happens if I am going on holiday?

We understand that foster carers have their own commitments and may not always be available to foster. If you know you have holidays or other commitments coming up, then please let us know. If you have been fostering a pug for a while, and an unexpected commitment comes up then please let us know as soon as possible. We will do our very best to make other arrangements for the foster pug.

What support will a foster carer receive?

• Regular contact with your area coordinator
• Veterinary and behavioural support provided throughout the foster period
• Veterinary costs will be covered by the PDWRA during the period of foster

How to become a foster carer?

1. Apply – complete the application form. Please provide as much information as possible
2. Phone call – your area coordinator will email you to arrange to call you for an informal chat and to answer any questions you may have
3. Home visit – if we feel that you can provide a suitable foster home, we will arrange a home visit

Fostering can be hugely rewarding, helping sometimes neglected pugs to blossom with good care and veterinary attention is heart-warming to see. Also, then, to see a foster pug move onto his or her forever home, matched to adopters who may have waited patiently for their very special pug.

PDWRA have a closed Facebook page for proud parents and fosterers to share their experiences, pictures and stories which can be very helpful also.