VIEWS FROM A FOSTER CARER
I have been fostering for approximately 18 months now. It is a very rewarding job.
When a dog first comes in to your care you are naturally apprehensive. Apart from the information the previous owners or their friends or family have provided to Hanna, you know very little about them. This is usually a fair reflection of the dog, its character and needs.
I have had dogs from as little as one week to several months (sometimes 3 at a time but thats me!). Some have been as young as 4 months old, others around 10. Some have had medical needs, others as fit and lively as any dog could be. Only once have I had one that needed socialisation training but he turned out to be a really great lad. Truly loved by his new owners now.
You have to be prepared for anything, although rarely is it bad. Also be prepared for a broken heart when they eventually get re-homed. If you love dogs, especially Poodles, you bond very quickly and it hurts when that bond is broken but the joy you get when you hear about or see them thriving in their new home makes all the heartache very much worthwhile.
Mrs T, Southern England