More Pets From Broken Homes Being Given Up

More foster homes are needed for dogs after an animal charity reported a sharp rise in animals coming into its care due to family break-ups.

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home said it has seen a 31% increase in the number of animals being brought in by their owners because of divorce and separation.

Because the animals come from a home environment, they can often find the adjustment to life in kennels stressful, so Battersea tries to place them with foster families until a permanent home comes along.

The charity takes in about 9,000 dogs and cats a year and places many of its residents in temporary homes.

Carly Whyborn, volunteer and foster manager at Battersea said:

"It's sad when dogs and cats find themselves here through no fault of their own.

"It's a massive change for them to come to this environment, and although our staff and volunteers do as much as they can to make the animals' stay as comfortable as possible, sometimes it can be too overwhelming for them.

"Foster homes can provide a sanctuary for some of our neediest animals, but we desperately need more such homes.

"Ideally, fosterers need to have some experience in caring for an animal, and ideally not have young children or other pets at home, and they need to live within a two-hour drive to one of our centres in London, Kent or Berkshire.

"Caring for a needy dog or cat can be a big responsibility, but the experience is incredibly rewarding."

Dog and cat foster carers need to be at home for most of the day to give the animal the care it needs.

All foster parents are given on-going training and support. For more information call 020 7622 3626, email fostering@battersea.org.uk or visit www.battersea.org.uk.