Volunteer Case Dog Fosterer

Could you be the consistency a dog needs during an uncertain time?

Some of our dogs are part of ongoing investigations and, because of their legal status, they may be in our care for a significant amount of time - sometimes many months. We can give them excellent care at our centre, but what these dogs really need is the consistency, stability and calm of a real home while they wait.

We're looking for a small number of committed, long-term fosterers who can provide exactly that.

About the role

As a case dog fosterer, you'll be a consistent, stable presence for a dog going through an uncertain time. You'll follow a tailored action plan for each dog, and our team will be on hand throughout to support you. Some dogs may arrive without house training or with specific medical or dietary needs, and progress can sometimes be slow - but the work you do, day in and day out, is what gives these dogs the chance to gradually learn to trust again.

This is a trusted role requiring sensitivity and confidentiality.

Due to legal and GDPR requirements, we may not be able to share the full details of a dog's background with you, and you may not be able to take photos or videos, or share details with friends and family. A full confidentiality briefing will be provided before each dog comes home with you so you know exactly what is and isn't permitted.

What we need from you

This is our most trusted fostering role, and for the right person, it's incredibly meaningful. You'll need to be patient, resilient and calm when progress is slow, and comfortable with dogs who may arrive in an upsetting condition.

We're ideally looking for:

• Someone who is at home for most of the day, or working from home, to provide the consistency these dogs need
• A quiet home with no other pets or children
• A fully secure, private garden
• A driver with your own transport, for vet visits and trips to our centre
• Someone based in the Derby area

If you rent your home, please note that we require written permission from your landlord before a foster dog can come home with you.

Getting started

You'll receive a full induction before your first foster dog arrives, including time spent at our centre getting to know the dog's individual personality and needs. You'll be given a tailored toolkit and action plan, along with a veterinary and medical plan where needed. We'll make sure you feel prepared and well-supported before they come home with you.

What we provide

We can provide everything the dog will need during their stay with you, including food, equipment and bedding. If there's anything you're able to contribute yourself, that's always gratefully appreciated, but there is no pressure to do so.

All veterinary costs are covered in full by us, and all medical care is arranged through our own vet. We remain responsible for all foster animals' medical and behavioural decisions, which are always made in close consultation with our vet, and we'll always keep you informed and will include your observations when making decisions.

Why join our team?

Case fostering asks a lot, but what it gives back is unlike almost anything else. You'll be the person who gives a dog in an incredibly difficult situation a safe, stable place to land - and that matters more than we can say. We're a small, independent charity, separate from the national RSPCA and entirely self-funded, and our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. By joining our volunteer foster team, you'll also:

• Develop a deep, hands-on understanding of dog behaviour, rehabilitation and recovery
• Know that your home played a direct and vital role in a dog's journey to safety and, eventually, their forever family
• Enjoy a 20% discount across all of our charity shops
• Be invited to our yearly celebration for volunteers and staff - our small way of saying thank you for everything you give us

Please note that availability for this role is limited. All applications will be reviewed and we'll be in touch if you're successful, so if you aren't selected this time, please do keep an eye out for future opportunities.

Interested?

If you'd like to apply for this role, please fill in the short form below and a member of our team will be in touch.