Appeal for dog foster carers

FOSTER carers are being sought from this region to open their homes to a dog in need this Christmas. Dogs Trust Cumbria, based at Penrith, are widening their search for fosterers to Dumfriesshire. A spokesperson yesterday said: “The team would welcome foster carers in the area Gretna, Annan, Dumfries, Lockerbie etc. They are all short journey times to Penrith. “We have had foster carers in Lockerbie before.” The role is voluntary and the trust covers the cost of food, bedding, vet treatment and other items while the dogs are in a foster home. It can be for a few days or a few months and they can tap into the charity’s training expertise. Spokesperson Julie O’Neill said: “Fostering is a hugely rewarding experience, allowing individuals or families to provide a loving home for a dog who may have had a difficult start in life. “Fostering offers all the joys of having a dog without the long-term commitment, and with the flexibility to take a break whenever needed.” The Cumbria branch takes in dogs from stray pounds in the county and also in the south of Scotland, giving them a second chance at life. Julie added: “With so many dogs needing our help right now, the role foster carers play has never been more important. “We are particularly appealing to people who are planning a quiet Christmas at home to consider offering a temporary home to a dog. By fostering a dog this festive season, you can make all the difference to their journey to a forever home by giving them safety, comfort and love at a time when they need it most.” To find out more, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/foster.