WHY I FOSTER 

A few years ago if someone had asked me to consider fostering I would have said "Whatever for? Either get a dog or don't - there's no middle course" . Sometimes it is so nice to be proved wrong. And, yes, I am also a failed fosterer who finds it very hard to let go - but I'm learning. Seeing a dog you have cared for move on to the perfect home is one of the most satisfying things I know.

What does a Three Counties Dog Rescue foster dog need? Food, love and security, in buckets. Some have been in the Charity's kennels where they have good food and kind treatment but no loving family. Others are handed in as unwanted, dogs of all ages completely bewildered by their rejection. Some come straight from the dog pound and look like they haven't eaten in a month. The best thing anyone can do for these dogs - once any medical issues have been dealt with - is to place them in a home situation, build their confidence and let them learn the boundaries of normal home life. You will also be assessing them for re-homing. What are their characters, their strengths and fears? Do they like cats? Can they live with other dogs and (perhaps most importantly) older or younger children? A dog with a "dossier" is more easily matched to a perfect home. Any problems can be discussed with Gyll or with the Charity's vets (and of course all veterinary care is paid for by the Charity).

I foster for the same reason I adopt rescue dogs: -  the sheer pleasure of watching an animal fill out, relax, get a shine on its coat and a swagger in its step. Dogs can be hard work but they are very rewarding. I would recommend fostering to anyone with a warm heart and a sense of humour.

Three Counties Dog Rescue desperately needs more fosterers to give its dogs a better chance of life. Could you help? 

Marian