Do you care about animals? Help save lives by becoming a foster carer!

Maybe you'd love a pet, but due to work, travel or lifestyle you aren't able to make the 10-15 year commitment. Maybe you've got your heart set on a particular breed but you're not sure what they'd actually be like to live with? Are you a person who loves animals but have no idea whether pet ownership is for you?

Foster caring is a great way to help animals AND get the joy of a pet around the house, without committing for a lifetime!

What is foster caring?

They arrive by the dozens each day: helpless dogs, cats and other companion animals that have been abandoned and need temporary care. To get the second chance they deserve, these animals desperately need foster care.

A foster carer is someone who provides a safe, nurturing environment for a shelter animal until a permanent home can be found. The number of animals that come into shelters around the country each week is enormous. Many shelters rely on volunteers to provide a temporary home to the animals that they would not be able to save otherwise due to limited space.

Foster caring also allows a much smoother transition when the animal is placed into his/her new home. As you can imagine, being kept in a shelter can be very stressful and traumatic for many animals. In your home they have a chance to feel safe and secure, to be nurtured and get exercised and socialised. It also allows the rescue group to evaluate the pet in a "normal" environment and discover details crucial to placing the animal. For example, is this cat litter trained? Is this dog good with cats, kids? A furniture hog or counter-surfer? Does he ride in cars okay? Many of these questions and others can't be answered when an animal is living in a shelter.

By taking in a foster animal you're giving that animal a second chance at life.

What kinds of animals need foster care?

Along with all the healthy companion animals that would be not be able to be saved without the help of foster carers, there are also special needs pets that would not survive without someone to foster them.

Sometimes it's young animals that need to be placed until they are old enough for adoption. Small puppies and kittens are able to be given love, time to “grow up” and the chance to live a long and happy life.

Sick or injured animals need somewhere to recover, mothers need somewhere safe to give birth – you don't need to be a veterinarian to care for pets like these, you just need be able to provide tender care under the direction of the rescue group.

Whether you have time for a special needs pet, or would just like to save a great pet from destruction, rescue groups can match you with animals based on your experience, lifestyle and home environment. And these pets will be very grateful to be able to live with you in their time of homelessness.

What do you need to be a foster carer?

To be considered as a foster carer you will have:

• a love of animals, compassion and the patience to provide a positive environment.
• a securely fenced yard.
• time to spend with the foster pet.
• your existing pets' vaccinated and able to live with a newcomer.
• no plans to go on holidays or move in the near future.
• approval from other family members or your landlord if required.
• time to bathe, groom and inspect the animal.
• a willingness to introduce the pet to new experiences, other animals and to teach good house manners.
• the ability to keep the rescue group up to date of the animals' behaviour and personality to assist with matching with adopters.
• the patience to assist the animal to overcome problems or undesirable behaviours should they arise.

Depending on the individual rescues' conditions, cats will likely need to be kept inside and dogs will need to be able to be inside when you are at home.

How long will I have the foster pet?

The time you have your foster animal varies from anything as short as a week, up to a several months depending on how long it takes to find the perfect forever home.

Should your circumstances change, you are able to return the pet to the rescue, but you will need to give the group plenty of time to find another foster carer to take the animal.

It's a big commitment and definitely not a job for everyone, but knowing you helped save a pet from destruction is an incredibly rewarding experience.

Won't I be sad when I have to hand the pet back?

There are always a few tears shed when you wave goodbye to a foster pet. But knowing that you saved its life and that now it's found the perfect forever family make up for the small amount of loss you will feel.

Besides, there's always another pet who needs you!

How to find out more?

If you would like to find out more about foster caring programs in your state, please visit Canine Foster Care at www.caninefostercare.org.au.

Doctor Poo is a dog poo analyst and is announcing the 1st Annual International Dog Poo Competition.

Doctor Poo is looking for the 'most interesting' picture of an Australian Sidewalk Dog Poo that is submitted before the competition closes.

Conditions of entry:

1. Poo must not be manipulated and in its natural state.

2. Poo must be found in a public place.

3. We prefer sidewalk dog poo as this is the battle that Doctor Poo fights against.

4. Photograph your poo and email 1x jpg image + 100-150 word caption to doctorpoo@ozdoggy.com.au.

Competition closes October 30, 2005.

The best dog poo submitted will win $100 worth of membership and prizes from Ozdoggy. And receive a Certificate for being 1st Annual International Dog Poo Competition Winner 2005.

For more info visit Dr Poo's website.

It's been a busy and exciting year for Melbourne's Save-A-Dog Scheme. 2005 marks the 20th anniversary of the Scheme's work to save and re-home dogs in Victoria. 2005 is the year that footballer Brodie Holland is dancing his way across our TV screens to support Save-A-Dog Scheme on Dancing with the Stars (please vote!!). And finally, it's the year in which our exciting new Shop turns a year old on November 1st!! A big thank you to everyone who has helped to make our first 1st twelve months so successful!

Save-A-Dog Scheme Shop sprang to life last November to increase awareness about some of the wonderful but little-known doggy products that can boost mental stimulation and help to alleviate boredom. The Shop is run solely by volunteers and sells a hand-picked range of very special things for dogs. But best of all, 100% of the profits go directly to the Scheme for the animals!

We specialise in high-quality, super-durable toys (guaranteed in writing!) that can be hard to find in shops. Our range also includes gorgeous soft toys, the very popular biodegradable BioDoggy bags, a small range of beds and our stunning new Silverfoot collars for dogs and cats.

We're committed to great prices and even better service. If you live close enough, we can make house calls to show you our products and deliver in person. If you live further a field, we regularly post orders all over Australia. So if you're looking for something a bit different for your best friend's Christmas present this year, please come and check out our website! Your dogs will love you for it... and so will ours!

Visit Save-A-Dog Scheme Shop at www.saveadog.org.au/shop
or phone us on 0418 525 004.

Save-A-Dog Scheme is a Melbourne-based non-profit organisation that offers a humane alternative to the killing of unwanted dogs in Victoria, especially dogs of good temperament who would otherwise be destroyed.

Dogs are housed in the Scheme's shelter and in foster homes where they're assessed and cared for while awaiting permanent, loving homes. Save-A-Dog Scheme has a no-kill philosophy and believes that the dichotomy of a dog being "Man's Best Friend" on the one hand and an unwanted article for destruction on the other is totally unacceptable.

Hi, there. My name is Cajun and I’m a Rottweiler cross, 3 years old. I really desperately need a permanent home because I have a bit of a joint problem. As I lie in my concrete kennel at the refuge, I dream every night about one day having my own warm home.

If you could find a cosy spot in your home and give me the love I need, the refuge has promised me they would provide all my medication. I promise you I am no trouble and get on well with two and four-legged creatures. A short stroll each day would be plenty for me. Happiness for me is good food, a warm bed, some sun – and a swim whenever anyone can take me to the river or ocean.

Hi, there. My name is Elsie and I SO wish you could come and see me the right way up, as I am sure you will be so surprised to see how beautiful I am. All my pretty friends seem to be finding homes, but I am hoping that soon the right person will come along and take the time to see the inner beauty in me. Bring your family as I love children.

As I have been at the refuge far too long, I have been placed in the Home Program, whereby if a special person or family can provide me with a permanent home where I will get lots of love, the refuge will provide all my medical expenses free.

Please, I am such a good girl, very affectionate and will be loyal the rest of my life.

If you can help Elsie or Cajun please phone: The Shenton Park Dogs' Home
Anne - Monday to Friday business hours: (08) 9381 8166
Noelle - weekends and after hours: (08) 9370 2784

The Ultimate Puppy Toolkit™ is a valuable tool for anyone who has adopted a puppy to help form bonds and learn some fun and positive obedience. It's step-by-step guides help you have a well adjusted puppy and helps avoid common behaviour problems.

Some of the lessons include:

Socialising – learning how to socialise successfully.

Prevent - simple steps that ensure your puppy doesn't develop common behaviour
problems which will make him hard to live with.

Games - a variety of games which are fun, exciting and even relaxing for you and your puppy.

Junior obedience - an easy to follow program for teaching your puppy the basics:
sit down, stand, come and walking on a loose leash.

House training - clear and simple instructions on how to house train your puppy for the long term.

The kit also includes a chart for puppy owner to track follow their puppy's development and a "Pocket Pal" portable guide of fun activities and lessons.

If you know anyone who is thinking about getting a puppy, forget about buying them a cute collar or dog bowl, The Ultimate Puppy Toolkit™ is the best gift you could give.

Check out their online presentation and informaton at http://www.urbanpuppy.com.

The Ultimate Puppy Toolkit™ is available in QLD through C.L.E.A.R Dog training info@cleardogtraining.com (07) 3390 4272 or Nationwide through Beau Pets Australia info@beaupets.com.au (03) 9540 3533

Shenton Park Dog's Home (WA) have just released their 2006 fundraising calendar featuring pets from the shelter. What a bunch of cuties!

Ordering information

The Animal Rights and Rescue Group (NSW) Christmas Cards, feature some of the ARRG animals that have found homes or are waiting to find the right person to love them. All I want for Christmas is a cat in a hat!

Ordering information

This scroll comes laminated and with your pug's photo and details on it. A great gift for puggy lovers and you'll be supporting Pug Rescue (VIC).

Ordering information

Don't forget your dog this xmas! Save-a-Dog (VIC) has the perfect gift to keep your them amused - the Buster cube! Made of durable, non-chew-friendly plastic it also allows you to adjust the level of difficulty.

Ordering information

These pups are raising funds for Doggie Rescue (NSW). Each comes complete with his own xmas hat and they're available in purple, green and yellow. No xmas stocking should be without one!

Ordering information

The Animal Welfare League (QLD) has this gorgeous dog bumb bag available. What a perfect gift for a dog nut!

Ordering information

Another great pet gift, this RSPCA (VIC) pet rug. Plush, fully machine washable and with a non slip backing your pet will be cosy and stylish!

Ordering information

--- October 2005 -------------

14th October
(TAS) RSPCA Button Day
The RSPCA Button Day this year has been set for Friday 14th October. It is a very important fundraising day for each of our divisions, with all funds raised going to the respective shelter within that area.

15th October
(SA) AWL Quiz Night
You don't need to be a bookworm to enjoy our quiz night! It will be held at the Woodville town hall on October 15th with all proceeds going to the Animal Welfare League. Come dressed in your favourite sports team colours, bring along some supper and get ready for some serious brainteasers from the evening's umpire, Andre Van der Veken from Reilly's Wines.

16th October
(WA) Dog Aid Swan Valley Winery Tour
Three wineries, gourmet lunch and beer tasting all for $50. Make up a group of friends, come along for a great day and help the Bali dogs at the same time.

(SA) RSPCA Cruise for Critters
If you enjoy cruising on your motorbike or scooter, why not join us on Sunday 16th October for the very first RSPCA Cruise for Critters! Take in the country side as we travel through the Adelaide Hills and head to the RSPCA Animal Shelter where we will finish with a scrumptious and well earned BBQ.

(WA) APS Sausage Sizzle
Support the APS by visiting Maddington Bunnings between 9am and 11am for a tasty sausage sizzle.

20th October
(QLD) AWL Chicks at Lunch
Keep the 20th of October clear into your diary for the Chicks at Lunch fundraising performance of 'Cabaret' at the Spotlight Theatre at 7pm.

23rd October
(VIC) Nillumbik Pet Expo 2005
The Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games come to the Pet Expo! Come and try: tunnelling, face painting, lure coursing, free dog wash, free vet advice, free paint workshop, free plaster workshop, free obedience classes.

23rd October
(WA) Friends of the RSPCA Quiz Fundraiser
Friends of the RSPCA Perth Auxiliary invite you to join us for a fun filled afternoon at our Quiz Fundraiser. Test your general knowledge and have some fun while supporting animal welfare! All funds raised go directly to RSPCA WA. Auctions and prizes on the day snacks and drinks will be available for sale.

29th October
(TAS) RSPCA Fur Ball
A charity gala dinner and auction. Ticket price $85 or Table of 10 guests $750. To be held at the Banqueting Hall, Country Club Resort, Launceston.

--- November 2005 -------------

5th November
(VIC) Dog Walking to Support VAAT
It has started again. Our first monthly walk began on 8th January, with a great turnout. Come along and support the shelter AND exercise your dog at the same time, by participating in this event organised by the Animal Aid

(VIC) Paws for a Cause” Family Day - DogAid
Come along with your family and beloved pooch for a great day of events and fun activities and show support to help end the suffering of dogs and cats in South Korea . Great prizes to be won and free show bag on entry.

7th November
(VIC) Hume City Council Microchipping
$20 microchipping! Monday 3:30PM - 7:00PM at the Sunbury Council Office.

12th November
(VIC) VAAT Trivia Night & Silent Auction
VAAT are hosting their second annual Trivia night and Silent auction on the 12th November. Already they have a great range of items available for the silent auction and there will be plenty of games and competitions throughout the evening.

Snow Boots - Helping Paw Rescue (NSW)
Thank you, PetRescue. Snow Boots has changed his name to "Hendrix" and has gone to live in Lane Cove where he's acquiring an appreciation of music listening to his new owner practising the guitar.

Brodie - Border Collie Rescue (WA)
Brodie found his forever home thanks once again to PetRescue. He is going to a family with two girls and another dog on a large property and will also be doing agility and obedience. He was a great dog to have stay with us for a few days and we will miss him heaps.

Skjitzo - Maryborough (QLD)
Skjitzo was one of the very first animals that we put onto our website ... in fact he was the first cat! So that makes the fact that he has found a home, very, very satisfying!

Justin - Helping Paw Rescue (NSW)
Thank you, PetRescue. When Justin's new owner first saw the listing on PetRescue, he was struck by Justin's remarkable resemblance to a much- loved dog the family had recently lost to cancer. And then when the family finally met Justin, it was love at first sight all around.

Cujo - DABS Rescue (NSW)
Cujo (now renamed Paddy) is having a wonderful time in Orange NSW. Because it's cold there this time of year, he has his own heated kennel and a warm woolly bed.

Rocky - Pug Resuc (VIC)
Rocky has found a new home in the country with a lovely family. Thank-you to everyone who enquired about Rocky. A massive thank-you to the PetRescue team for their great site.

Boondie - Border Collie Rescue (WA)
Boondie has found a forever home thanks to PetRescue - I do not think we could have found a better place for him if we had drawn up precise details of what we wanted for him - so thank you once again PetRescue and keep up the good work.

Esther - Helping Paw Rescue (NSW)
Thank you, PetRescue. Esther has left the city behind and gone to live with a lovely family in Young, where they absolutely adore her.

Ellie - ARF (ACT)
Ellie's dainty paws barely had tieme to touch the ground in her foster carer's place before she was "chosen" and set off to chek out her forever home.

Gingerbits - Helping Paw Rescue (NSW)
Thank you once again, PetRescue. After a long wait, Gingerbits finally found a wonderful home in the Rouse Hill district. He is now the much-loved pet of a little 7 year old girl who tells me that when she rubs his head, Gingerbits "purrs like a motor bike."

Pete - Albury Dog Rescue (NSW)
Pete was rehomed thanks to PetRescue to a lovely couple in Melbourne where he will live with another JRT.

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