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Foster a dog, help a whole family find freedom

By looking after a dog in your home, you can support a family on their journey to freedom from domestic abuse.

Apply here

Why volunteer with Freedom?

We don't want a dog to be another barrier preventing someone taking that step to safety. By volunteering to foster a dog you will enable the owner to access a refuge, safe in the knowledge that their dog is being loved and cared for until they're ready to be reunited. Freedom foster carers are not only helping a dog in their time of need, they're supporting a whole family on their journey towards freedom.

84% of our volunteers rated the support of the Freedom team 'excellent'.

96% of our volunteers said that fostering gives them a sense of satisfaction that they are helping others.

Fostering has all the benefits of owning a dog, without the expense or long-term commitment. Placements can last around 6 to 9 months and Dogs Trust covers all food, expenses and veterinary bills. We'll provide all the equipment your foster dog will need during their time with you.

88% of Freedom volunteers said that fostering had a positive impact on their wellbeing and mental health.

86% of Freedom volunteers said that fostering increased their knowledge and understanding of dogs.

A foster carer’s journey Apply here

Welcoming a foster dog

Our experienced team work with the dog's owner to learn about their pet's health, behaviour and how they're cared for, so we can carefully match individual dogs with foster carers who will best fit their lifestyle. While the dog stays with you, the Freedom team will provide ongoing advice and support, plus we'll take photos so we can keep the dog's owner updated on how they're doing.

Benefits of fostering    How the service works 

A volunteer’s story

Find out more about becoming a foster carer from an existing Freedom volunteer.

Read Sue's volunteering story

Frequently asked questions

Read our answers to the most asked questions about volunteering to foster a dog.

Read the FAQs

Can you help us support dog owners?

Fostering a dog is a big commitment, but a fantastic opportunity too. Hear from some of our volunteers on their experiences of helping dogs and owners through Freedom.

What we're looking for - our fostering criteria 

Become a Freedom foster carer

Change the lives of a family working towards freedom from domestic abuse by becoming a Freedom foster carer today.

Apply now  How the service works