Three black and white kittens play. One has their paws up on a sofa and the others look towards the camera.

Volunteer as a pet foster carer

We're looking for committed people who can offer short term care to pets in their own homes.

Short term pet foster carer

Would you like a pet but are not in a position to give long term commitment? Do you have a spare room you could offer a vulnerable cat or time to devote to cheering up a dog?

What you will be doing

  • Caring for Blue Cross pets in your own home until they can be rehomed
  • Pets might be recuperating from operations, too young to rehome or cannot cope with centre life
  • You may also offer to foster pregnant females or mums and litters
  • You will be providing all the care they need – feeding, exercising, cleaning, socialising, giving medication and grooming
  • Keep accurate records

What we are looking for

  • Experience of handling and caring for pets
  • You need to live within 45 minutes of the centre and have use of suitable transport
  • A spare room if fostering cats, a garden is beneficial if fostering dogs
  • Preferably no other pets
  • Willingness to learn and follow our procedures
  • Competent, flexible and self motivated
Black Labrador sitting with someone holding a treat in front of his nose
Black Labrador puppy, Milo, who was cared for by one of our amazing pet foster carers

Benefits to you

  • You’ll be helping pets to have happy, healthy lives
  • Enjoy all the joys of pet ownership without long term commitment and cost
  • Gain practical skills, experience and a training programme
  • Develop skills and enhance your CV
  • Join a great team of like-minded people
  • Arrangements will be made for holidays
  • All equipment provided and costs covered

View short term pet foster carer roles

— Page last updated 09/03/2023