Oreo is one of the many dogs and puppies looking for a new short-term foster home. Photo: RSPCA ACT.
Staffy Bull Terrier Oreo has become a familiar sight to staff at the RSPCA ACT’s shelter.
“I don’t know why he’s still here, to be honest. He’s a beautiful, beautiful boy; he’s good-looking, he’s lovely,” says CEO Michelle Robertson.
“He doesn’t particularly like other dogs, but he can go with teenage children.”
Oreo has been in their care for about seven months, but he’s about to be leaving the shelter in a new program.
The RSPCA is looking for short-term foster carers who can welcome a dog or puppy into their home over the Christmas period.
“We’re closing to the public for a number of days, so we’re not going to see any movements of animals going out for adoption,” Michelle says.
“We have an amazing crew that comes in [during our Christmas shutdown], and they try to make it as special as for all the animals in our care – but nothing beats being in a home environment.”
People can take in a canine companion between 23 December and 27 December, or from 28 December to 2 January.
“It is a commitment, but not a massive commitment,” Michelle says.
“If there are people staying in Canberra for the break, it’ll be a very rewarding experience for them.
“But if things really don’t work out, then there will be a number you can phone and you can bring the animal back.”
The RSPCA will also provide toys, food and other essentials to the foster parents.
Michelle says participating families should remember that their new furry friend will be adjusting to a new environment.
“I’m sure that they’re going to be showered with love and attention, and that’s really good for them,” she says.
“But when you take an animal into your home, you should just take it slow.
“It will take a while for them to come out of their shell. The best thing that you can do is to give them the space to be and create that environment for them.
“Once they come to you, it is super rewarding.”
Michelle says that being fostered, even for a few days, makes “the world of difference” to an animal.
“Mentally, they will be happier. They have increased chances of just chilling,” she says.
“A shelter environment can be stressful because there’s always sounds and heaps of other animals around them.”
Also, the break might help the canines find a forever home.
“[Oreo is one of those dogs who] doesn’t present super well in the kennel, so if he’s in a home environment, those foster people will tell us, ‘This is how he was in a home environment’,” she says.
“It just helps us market him better and get his own family sooner.”
While a dog finding its forever home through the scheme would be the “cherry on top” of the program, Michelle reminds people need to think carefully before adding an animal to their family.
“It’s always our best days at the shelter when we have an adoption,” she says.
“Some people get excited [about adopting an animal] over Christmas, but it shouldn’t be an impulse decision.”
Those interested in short-term fostering can attend an information session from 5:30 pm on 17 December, which will be held at the RSPCA ACT shelter at 12 Kirkpatrick Street in Weston. To learn more about RSPCA pet adoption, visit RSPCA ACT.
Loading ...
