AN URGENT appeal has been made by a Welsh dog shelter for more people to open their homes to fostering a dog in need.

Dogs Trust Cardiff is appealing for members of the public to come forward and foster some of their dogs while they wait for their forever families.

The charity relies on the kindness and generosity of foster carers to provide temporary homes for the dogs – which is even more important as more and more dogs are being left at shelters as their owners are unable to look after them.

Fostering a dog is hugely rewarding, the charity says, as it allows for individuals or families to provide a loving home for a dog that may have had a difficult start in life, helping the dog to be settled into a home ready for when they find their forever family, instead of having to adjust with their new owners from life in kennels.

It also allows the trust to free up some space in the rehoming centre, so that more dogs can be looked after.

Anyone who chooses to foster a dog will do so with all costs covered by Dogs Trust, including food, bedding and vets bills.

Jackie Yip is someone who has been fostering dogs and has found it to be enriching. She had always loved dogs but found it difficult to commit to owning one due to starting her career, but since 2022, she has fostered three dogs.

Jackie said: “Although I chose to foster for my own enjoyment, at the heart of it, I love supporting the dogs that come to me and giving them a home whilst they find their perfect match.

“It’s been incredibly difficult to say goodbye to them when they do, but I have cherished the moments I get to take care of them and get them back on their feet. Seeing them come out of their shell when they’re with you is the best feeling in the world, and I am so glad that I get to play such a special part in their lives for a little while.”

Charlotte Spencer, Dogs Trust Cardiff’s home from home coordinator, said: “I emphasize the importance of fosterers like Jackie in providing temporary homes for dogs in our care. With the rising cost of living, we need more fosterers now more than ever before, it also helps us to identify what each dog needs from its future forever home.

“Fostering also gives some of our dogs who need a break from kennel life, such as older dogs and those recovering from veterinary treatment, the chance to receive some extra TLC in a home setting.”

Anyone wishing to become a Dogs Trust foster carer can visit www.dogstrust.org.uk or call the fostering team on 0303 0030000.