Foster a Dog, Change a Life
Open your home — and your heart — to a dog in need. Dogs in Distress relies on kind fosterers across Ireland to give rescue dogs a safe, temporary place to heal and prepare for their forever homes.
What Is Dog Fostering?
Fostering a dog means offering a short-term home to one of our rescues until they’re ready for adoption. Our fosterers provide love, stability, and daily care — helping us learn more about each dog’s personality so we can find their perfect forever home.
Why Fostering Makes a Difference
Gives Dogs a Safe Home
Many of our dogs have never known comfort — fostering gives them a place to rest and feel loved.
Helps Us Understand Each Dog
Fosterers provide insight into behavior, temperament, and ideal homes.
Makes Space for More Rescues
Each foster home means we can rescue another dog from distressing conditions.
How Fostering Works
Our Fostering Process
Register as a Fosterer
Register your interest by submitting an application form.
Provide Care & Updates
Once a dog has been allocated everything can be provided for their stay. All you need to supply is a safe place to stay, love, attention, walks and basic training if required.
Vet Care & Support
Vet care will be arranged and any support required at the end of the phone.
Application Review
When the dog is ready we will take applications for fostering based on the information you provide regarding the requirements needed in their forever home.
Extra Support
We will then arrange a meet and greet at a time that is convenient for all parties.
We’re With You Every Step of the Way
You’re never alone when fostering with Dogs in Distress
- All veterinary care
- Our team is happy to offer guidance as you and your new dog settle in.
- Full support until your foster dog is adopted
Ready to Make a Difference?
Fill out our online application form and join our incredible network of fosterers across Ireland.