Fostering
We are always in need of new foster homes as the rate of pugs being surrendered to us keeps increasing year on year.
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.
Our fosterers are sometimes helping neglected pugs to blossom with good care and veterinary attention, getting them ready to move on to their forever home. It is heartwarming and fulfilling to see and be part of the progress.
Fostering can be hugely rewarding but is not without its challenges. We may have very little information about the pug being surrendered to us and foster carers will need to be able to cope with unexpected medical or behavioural issues. You will have the full support of your Volunteer Area Coordinator in looking after the pug and its needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do pugs get surrendered?
Pugs come into our care for a wide variety of reasons such as a change in working hours, inability to pay for essential treatment, an elderly owner going into care or a relationship breakdown.
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 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 its 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 do I become a foster carer?
- Apply online – complete the application form, the button to go to the form is at the bottom of this section. Please provide as much information as possible
- 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
- Home visit – if we feel that you can provide a suitable foster home, we will arrange a home visit
We are now open for fostering applications throughout England and Wales, except in parts of the South West (Cornwall, Devon and Dorset).
Please apply to foster below:
Fostering Story
The joy of fostering older pugs
Read More
Fostering Story
A day in the life of fosterer Jackie
Read More
