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Can you foster if you have pets?

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.

Can Foster Parents Have Pets?

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.

Benefits of Fostering Children with Pets in the Home:

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. 

Pet Assessment Process:

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.

Dog Breeds Not Allowed in Foster Homes:

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:

  • Pit Bull Terrier
  • Dogo Argentino
  • XL Bully
  • Fila Braziliero
  • Japaense Tosa

Fostering with Pets Considerations and Precautions:

While pets offer numerous advantages, fostering agencies and foster parents must consider potential risks and take necessary precautions. Some key points to remember include:

  • Supervised Interaction: Supervision is essential to ensure the safety of both pets and foster children during interactions. Teaching foster children how to safely interact with pets and recognise their cues is crucial for fostering a positive relationship.
  • Understanding Individual Dynamics: Understanding the history and dynamics of both the child and the pet is crucial in determining compatibility. Some foster children may have had traumatic experiences with animals in the past, necessitating sensitivity and tailored interventions.
  • Health and Safety Measures: Regular health check-ups, vaccinations, and good housekeeping practices are essential to maintain a safe environment for everyone. Foster parents should ensure that pets are up to date on vaccinations, properly groomed, and provided with adequate nutrition and enrichment. Additionally, some children may have allergies which would result in them not being able to be matched in a household with pets.
  • Risk Mitigation Strategies: Foster parents should have strategies in place to address any potential risks or conflicts involving pets and foster children. This may include creating designated pet-free zones, establishing clear boundaries, and implementing positive reinforcement techniques for desired behaviours.

Final Thoughts on Can You Foster if You Have Pets:

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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