Fosterers

Pugs are being surrendered into our care on a weekly basis, and when they are handed over to the charity we often need to find short-term homes for them, where they can be safe and cared for until they are ready for adoption. In many cases, pugs come to us with varying degrees of health issues. Finding people who are experienced in looking after pugs and their unique issues can be challenging, but we’re fortunate to have a wonderful team of fosterers who are willing to help out, often at short notice.

Fostering can be the perfect option for people who might not be in the position to take on a permanent companion, but are happy to have the patter of tiny feet around when they are able. Our fosterers often already have pugs of their own, so adding one or two more on a temporary basis is something that they are happy to do. It’s not uncommon for surrendered pugs to have come from less than desirable circumstances, so being able to rehabilitate into some kind of a normal life, especially where there are other pugs around to guide them, can be an ideal environment for them to feel safe in.

If you feel that you have the skills and the time to commit to taking on a foster pug, then please click the button below to apply. Once received, a member of our team will be in touch to discuss your application in more detail. It’s important to bear in mind that pugs are surrendered at all ages, and sometimes even as ‘bonded pairs’, so please think carefully about what you would be happy to offer before applying.

The role of a Fosterer

PWR doesn’t 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 into care or a relationship breakdown.

Often, we may have very limited information about the pug being surrendered to us, and a foster carer may need to be able to cope with unexpected medical or behavioural issues. To help you in your role, you’ll have the full support of your Volunteer Area Coordinator, who will be happy to guide and advise you as to the best way to look after the pug and its specific needs.

Fostering can be a very rewarding experience, but it’s not without challenges. Please read the information below to make sure that you are eligible, willing and prepared 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 much 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. 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 PWR during the foster period.

How do I become a foster carer?

Apply – complete the application form. 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.

Please note that all successful volunteer applicants will be required to complete the PWR ‘Code of Conduct’ agreement, provide references and supply us with an up to date Disclosure & Barring Check.

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

What's it like to be a PWR Fosterer?

If you’d like to find out more about what it’s like to foster for PWR, have a look below at the stories from two of our wonderful volunteers who have been fostering for some time…

A Day in the Life of Fosterer Jackie

Not only is Jackie one of our most experienced Volunteer Area Coordinators, she also fosters pugs for the Charity!

The Joy of Fostering Older Pugs

As well as being Vicar for her local Parish, Julie also specialises in fostering older pugs and has had as many as 9 at one time!