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Are you considering fostering a child but, but wondering “can you foster if you have pets”? This comprehensive guide addresses the common queries and sheds light on the rules and guidance around fostering children with pets in the home.
The answer is a resounding yes, you can foster if have pets! Many prospective foster parents wonder whether fostering children with pets in the home is a possibility or if their beloved pets will be a barrier to fostering. The truth is, pets can coexist harmoniously with children who are fostered, enriching their lives in numerous ways. From dogs and cats to more unconventional pets like hamsters and reptiles, fostering agencies accommodate a wide variety of pet owners.
Companionship and Emotional Support: Pets offer invaluable companionship and emotional support to foster children, alleviating feelings of loneliness, stress, and anxiety. The unconditional love and presence of a pet can be particularly comforting to children navigating the uncertainties of foster care. Sarah, a foster parent with Family Fostering partners explains “Our dog, Milo, has been such a calming influence. It’s amazing to see how quickly the children bonded with him, and he’s really helped them settle in and feel more at home.”
Responsibility and Life Skills: Caring for a pet can help instil vital life skills such as responsibility, empathy, and compassion in foster children. From feeding and grooming to understanding non-verbal cues, interactions with pets foster valuable social and emotional development. “The children we look after love to help take care of the animals. Feeding the chickens and grooming the horses has given them a real sense of purpose and pride. It’s wonderful to see their confidence grow each time they stay with us.” Explains Joe, a respite foster parent with Family Fostering Partners
Physical Activity: Pets encourage physical activity, promoting overall health and well-being for the entire family. Whether it's a game of fetch with a dog, or interactive play with a cat, pets motivate children in foster care to engage in active pursuits, which in turn fosters a healthier lifestyle
Sense of Belonging: Pets create a sense of stability and routine, making the foster home feel like a welcoming environment. Coming home to a wagging tail or a purring cat can provide a sense of security and belonging, especially for children transitioning into a new home. “We’ve looked after children who have never been around animals before, and seeing their faces light up when they’re greeted by our pets is priceless.” Explains Lauren, a foster parent with Family Fostering Partners. “Since starting fostering, our pets have helped to 'break the ice' in a lot of ways; they help ease the transition into our home.” Click here to listen to more testimonials from our foster parents.
Fostering agencies such as us at Family Fostering Partners will conduct a thorough "Pet Assessment" as part of the application process to ensure the safety and compatibility of pets with foster children. While pets can be immensely beneficial, agencies will always prioritise the welfare of foster children and assess each situation individually.
During the assessment, factors such as the type and number of pets, their behaviour and temperament, and the foster home environment are carefully evaluated. Foster parents are encouraged to provide detailed information about their pets, including their routines, interactions with children, and any specific training or certifications they may have.
Although dogs can be a great companion and aid for children who are fostered, applications to foster will not be considered from anyone who owns any breed of dog that is registered or required to be registered under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991/1997. The dog breeds that are not allowed in foster homes include:
While pets offer numerous advantages, fostering agencies and foster parents must consider potential risks and take necessary precautions. Some key points to remember include:
Pets can play a significant role in the fostering journey, offering love, companionship, and therapeutic benefits to foster children. If you're considering fostering children with pets in the home, don't let that deter you. We welcome any questions around “can you foster if you have pets” from prospective foster parents. By embracing the unique bond between pets and foster children, we create an environment where every child feels loved, supported, and valued. If you would like to contact us and begin your journey to becoming a foster parent, please visit our Contact us page.
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