For many Australians, fostering provides a unique opportunity to assess whether pet ownership fits into their lives and can involve a range of pets, from cats and dogs, to more exotic birds, rabbits, guinea pigs and a range of other animals that may need homes. Whether you’re testing the waters of pet care or simply aiming to make a difference, fostering can be a deeply rewarding experience.

What is pet fostering?

Pet fostering involves temporarily caring for animals from shelters or rescue organisations until they are adopted. The primary objective of fostering is to provide these animals with care, socialisation, and love, which can significantly increase their chances of being adopted. 

Foster pet parents play a crucial role in the animal’s life by offering a less stressful environment than a shelter, which greatly benefits the animal’s overall well-being.

Fostering is inherently temporary, varying from a few weeks to several months, depending on the pet’s needs and the adoption rates at the shelter. This arrangement not only helps to reduce overcrowding in shelters but also prepares pets for a smoother transition to permanent homes.

The types of animals in need of fostering extend far beyond dogs and cats. Many shelters also seek foster homes for rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, and even more exotic pets who await adoption. Each type of animal comes with its own set of care requirements and rewards, making fostering a diverse and enriching experience.

By opening your home temporarily, you’re not just helping an animal in need; you’re also making a profound community impact. To learn more about how you can get involved, check out the RSPCA’s fostering resources or explore further at Mad Paws’ blog on fostering a dog, where you can find additional details and stories to inspire your fostering journey.

Fostering vs. adopting pets: What’s the difference?

When considering bringing a new pet into your life, you might find yourself weighing the options between fostering and adopting. Both paths provide invaluable support to animals in need, but they cater to different lifestyles and levels of commitment.

Key differences 

The primary difference between fostering and adopting lies in the permanency of the arrangement. Fostering is temporary, providing short-term care to animals until they are adopted by a permanent family. Adoption, on the other hand, is a long-term commitment where you provide a forever home to an animal.

Commitment and responsibilities 

Fostering requires a flexible approach to pet care, as you might be caring for different animals for varying periods. The responsibilities can range from basic care, like feeding and exercising, to more involved tasks such as administering medication, training, or socialising the animal to improve its chances of adoption. 

Shelters often provide the necessary supplies and cover medical expenses, making fostering a less financially burdensome commitment.

Adopting a pet demands a long-term emotional and financial commitment, as you become fully responsible for the animal’s health and well-being for the rest of its life. This includes regular veterinary care, nutrition, training, and other pet-related expenses, which can add up over time.

A step towards pet adoption 

For many, fostering serves as a trial period to assess whether they are ready for the full-time responsibilities of pet ownership. It allows potential pet owners to understand the demands of caring for an animal and to gauge how well a new pet might fit into their lifestyle and household. 

Fostering can be particularly helpful as it exposes foster parents to a range of pet behaviours and needs, which can be key in deciding the pet is one that suits your home, lifestyle, and environment, 

Fostering before adopting can lead to a more informed, confident decision when choosing to permanently welcome a pet into your home. For more insights and stories about the impact of fostering and adopting, you can read through heartfelt adoption stories.

Ultimately, whether you choose to foster or adopt, you are providing an invaluable service to the welfare of animals and enriching your life with the joy and love that pets bring.

Benefits of fostering a pet

Fostering a pet comes with a host of advantages that extend beyond the simple joy of having an animal around the house. 

These benefits can be categorised into emotional, practical, and community impacts, each contributing to the profound fulfilment that animal fostering offers.

Emotional benefits 

The emotional rewards of fostering are immense. As a foster carer, you experience the deep satisfaction of helping a pet in need. Many animals in shelters have gone through stressful experiences, and fostering provides them with a loving, stable environment where they can recuperate and thrive. This process can be incredibly heartwarming and enriching.

Also, fostering offers companionship without the long-term commitment of pet ownership, making it a good option for those who love animals but aren’t ready or able to commit permanently.

Practical benefits 

Fostering also serves as an excellent way to assess pet compatibility, especially if you are considering adopting in the future. It allows you to understand what type of pet suits your lifestyle, how much time and effort you can dedicate, and how well a pet can integrate into your family. 

Moreover, it’s an opportunity to learn pet care basics under less permanent conditions. This includes routine care practices like feeding, grooming, training, and administering medications, all supported and often financed by the animal shelter.

Community impact 

On a larger scale, fostering has a significant positive impact on the community. By temporarily housing pets, foster carers help to ease the burden on local shelters and rescue organisations, freeing up resources and space for other needy animals. 

Furthermore, fostering increases a pet’s chances of being adopted by helping it adjust to home environments, improving its social skills, and maintaining its health—all of which make it more attractive to potential adopters.

If you’re inspired to start your journey as a foster pet parent, consider reading more about the process and benefits at Mad Paws’ article on why you should adopt a pet, which also touches upon the transformative power of fostering.

How to become a foster pet parent in Australia

Becoming a foster pet parent in Australia is a rewarding journey that starts with understanding the responsibilities and commitments involved. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get started, including what you’ll need to consider and where you can apply to become a foster carer.

1. Research and select an organisation 

The first step is to identify local shelters or rescue organisations that offer fostering programs. Many organisations, including the RSPCA and numerous local rescue groups, actively seek foster carers to help care for animals until they can be permanently re-homed.

2. Understand the requirements

Fostering a pet requires more than just time and love. Potential foster parents need to ensure their home environment is suitable for the specific needs of the pet they wish to foster. This includes having secure, pet-safe areas and, in some cases, being able to accommodate the pet’s medical needs or behavioural training. Additionally, you should consider your daily schedule and lifestyle to ensure you can provide the necessary time and attention your foster pet will need.

3. Complete an application

Once you have chosen an organisation, the next step is to fill out a fostering application. This form will ask about your experience with pets, your home environment, and other details to help the organisation match you with the right pet.

4. Attend training and interviews 

Most organisations require potential foster carers to attend a training session or workshop. These sessions provide valuable information on the basics of pet care, how to handle emergency situations, and specific training related to the care of more vulnerable animals, such as puppies, kittens, or those with health issues. 

You may also be interviewed by the shelter staff to further assess your suitability as a foster carer.

5. Home inspection 

A home inspection might be necessary to ensure your living conditions are safe and appropriate for a foster pet. This is also a great opportunity for you to ask any questions you might have about the practical aspects of fostering.

6. Approval and matching 

Once approved, the organisation will match you with a pet that suits your home environment and lifestyle. The matching process is critical to ensure both you and the pet have the best fostering experience possible.

7. Bringing your foster pet home 

With all steps completed, you’re ready to bring your foster pet home. The fostering organisation will typically provide you with all the necessary supplies, such as food, bedding, toys, and medication if required.

8. Ongoing support 

After you have started fostering, the organisation usually provides ongoing support to help you throughout your fostering journey. This includes access to veterinary care and advice on behavioural issues.

If you’re ready to take the first step towards becoming a foster pet parent, visit the RSPCA Australia fostering page to learn more about the opportunities available and to apply. Alternatively, local shelters such as Pet Rescue provide detailed guides and applications to help you get started.

Fostering a pet can be one of the most fulfilling experiences, offering a vital service to animals in need while enriching your own life with the joys of pet companionship.

To start your journey as a foster pet parent, consider reading more about the process and benefits at Mad Paws’ article on why you should adopt a pet, which also touches upon the transformative power of fostering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about pet fostering in Australia

What is the cost of fostering a pet? 

Fostering a pet typically involves minimal costs for the foster parent. Most animal shelters and rescue organisations cover the major expenses related to the pet’s care, including veterinary bills, medications, and sometimes even food and supplies. 

Nevertheless, foster carers are generally only responsible for providing a safe, nurturing environment and covering daily costs like food if not provided. Remember, fostering an animal is an act of love and these daily costs can pile up. So only foster animals that fit comfortably within your budget to care for.

What happens if I want to adopt my foster pet? 

Many foster carers fall in love with their foster pet and decide to adopt them permanently. This process is often referred to as a “foster fail,” but it’s seen as a positive outcome. If you wish to adopt your foster pet, you’ll need to communicate your intentions to the organisation you’re fostering through, and they’ll guide you through the adoption process.

How long does the fostering period typically last? 

The duration of the fostering period can vary widely depending on the specific needs of the pet and the organisation’s policies. It could be as short as a few weeks or as long as several months. The fostering period also depends on factors like the pet’s health, age, and how quickly a suitable forever home is found.

Do you get paid to foster a pet? 

Fostering is a volunteer activity, and as such, foster carers do not receive monetary compensation. However, most organisations cover all veterinary expenses and, in many cases, also provide food and necessary supplies.

Can you foster a pet if you have anxiety? 

Yes, you can foster a pet even if you have anxiety. In fact, many people find that fostering pets has therapeutic benefits, as pets can provide companionship, reduce stress, and increase overall emotional well-being. It’s important to assess your own capacity and choose a pet whose needs are manageable for you.

Can you foster to adopt a pet in Australia? 

Yes, in Australia, the “foster to adopt” scheme is quite popular among rescue organisations. This process allows potential adopters to bring a pet into their home on a trial basis to ensure that the pet is a good fit for their household before making the adoption permanent.

How do you deal with guilt for surrendering a pet? 

Surrendering a pet can be a difficult decision, but it’s important to recognise when it’s in the best interest of the pet. To cope with feelings of guilt, it’s beneficial to ensure that you’re surrendering to a reputable organisation that will take good care of the animal and work to find it a suitable home. 

Communicating openly with the shelter about the reasons for surrender can help them better accommodate the pet. Seeking support from pet support groups or counselling can also be helpful in managing these feelings.

Discover how pet fostering is rewarding for you and them

Fostering a pet offers a unique blend of rewards and challenges. As a foster carer, you provide a crucial bridge to a better life for animals in need, helping to prepare them for adoption into loving homes. The experience brings immense emotional rewards through companionship and the joy of making a significant difference in an animal’s life. 

However, it also requires commitment, flexibility, and patience as you work with pets who may have special needs or require extra care and training.

If you’re looking for a fulfilling way to contribute to animal welfare, consider becoming a foster pet parent. It’s an enriching experience that not only benefits the animals but also provides personal satisfaction and growth.

The post What it means to foster a pet appeared first on Mad Paws.

It’s a common misconception that rabbits are the perfect “starter pets” or ideal pets for children. But both of these assumptions are wrong. Rabbits are fragile and should not be handled by young children. In addition, they have a complex set of needs you must understand before making this commitment.

Let’s explore the question, “Are rabbits good pets?” so you can decide whether now is a good time to adopt or if it’s best to stick with chocolate bunnies this Easter!

Housing for a pet rabbit

Research shows that over a fifth of all rabbits live in cages that are too small, and over half of pet rabbits aren’t allowed daily exercise. The problem is that while most owners are well-meaning, they don’t fully comprehend a rabbit’s accommodation and exercise needs. Many marketed rabbit hutches are simply too small to adequately house a bunny. So, how do you know which products are suitable for your pet rabbit?

As a general rule of thumb, rabbits require a hutch that is four times their body length and allows them to stand up without their ears touching the ceiling. Your bunny should be able to lie down in any direction, complete three hops along the length of their cage, and have a ceiling no lower than 45cm.

A hutch is not a home but a temporary enclosure to keep your pet rabbit safe. In addition, your bunny needs daily exercise, which allows them to engage in natural behaviours such as hopping, jumping, digging, and nesting. For this reason, it’s important to have a larger area—such as a bunny-proofed room in your house—where they can roam free for at least four hours a day.

Setting up their hutch or housing area

As rabbits are natural prey, they have a tendency to be fearful of many things, which is why they need a safe space to hide. Hutches with a covered area are ideal for satisfying this need, though there are some important considerations:

• The hutch must be kept out of direct sunlight if it is outdoors. Conversely, in the winter, it should be placed in a garage or brought indoors. The recommended temperature range for rabbits is 10-25 degrees celsius.
• Wooden hutches are the best option; metal isn’t suitable as it heats up too quickly, potentially exposing your rabbit to heat stress.
• Rabbit hutches must be cleaned daily to remove soiled bedding and food scraps. You can toilet train rabbits and even use a litter tray so that their waste remains in one area and is easier for you to clean. Use newspaper or towels to line the litter tray. Avoid cat litter, as this is not suitable for your pet rabbit.

Tip: Rabbits like to eat while they poop, so adding a little hay to their litter box will help to encourage them.

Feeding your pet rabbit

Rabbits are herbivores, meaning their diet consists entirely of plant-based foods. Around 80% of their diet should consist of hay, and they need constant access to this food source. Avoid cut grass, as it ferments quickly and can cause digestive issues for your rabbit.

Around 15% of a rabbit’s diet should consist of fresh vegetables like leafy green lettuce (NOT iceberg), bok choy, cilantro, dandelion leaves, kale, spinach, watercress, and broccoli (leaves and stems). Some vegetables can cause stomach upset, so when introducing a new food to your rabbit’s diet, do it gradually and monitor their reaction.

Now for the eye opener – contrary to popular belief, high-carb veggies like parsnips and carrots (yes, carrots!) should only be given as an occasional treat.

And, NEVER give your rabbit avocado, garlic, onion, or potatoes.

Only 5% of your rabbit’s diet should come from pellets or high-sugar foods like fruit. A diet that consists only of pellets will quickly lead to malnutrition. Additionally, avoid muesli because it can cause dental disease.

Did you know that rabbits’ teeth grow throughout their lives?

That’s why a high-fibre diet is essential, as it helps to wear down the continually growing teeth. Without this, rabbits’ teeth can become overgrown, making it painful for them to eat. If your rabbit has problems with its teeth, you’ll likely notice symptoms such as a reluctance to eat or drooling, which is a sign that your rabbit needs a visit to the vet.

Additionally, remember that rabbits need constant access to fresh, clean water. If you’re using a bottle, make sure the nib is placed 3-4 cm above the floor. This allows your bunny to access it easily but prevents the water from being contaminated with urine or faeces.

Exercising your pet rabbit

Daily exercise is crucial for your rabbit’s health and wellbeing. If they live in a hutch, they need at least four hours of exercise per day in an area that allows them to run around and play. You’ll also need to provide enrichment tools so that they can engage in their natural behaviours. Here are some ideas:

Hiding

Rabbits are ground-dwelling prey creatures, so having places to hide allows them to feel safe. These could include:

• Cardboard boxes
• Tunnels
• Paper bags (with handles removed)
• PVC pipes

Digging

Rabbits love to dig, but you probably won’t want them digging holes all over your garden! A better alternative is to provide them with both digging and bunching materials to keep them happy:

• A sand pit or container filled with dirt, shredded paper, or child-friendly sand is a good option.
• You can also provide “bunching” materials such as towels or blankets that your bunny can pick up and rearrange around themselves.
• Provide toys and other objects your bunny can manipulate and explore, such as those in the pet store. 

Foraging

In the wild, rabbits spend a lot of time foraging and nibbling on food. However, when you deliver food to them every day, they can become complacent or lazy. Adding foraging enrichment to their environment helps them to stay proactive in their search for food. Try the following:

• Hide food around their playpen for them to find
• Put treats inside empty egg containers 
• Using pegs, hang vegetables around your bunny’s enclosure
• Hide healthy treats inside a foraging box (filled with shredded paper, hay, etc)
• Hide treats inside empty toilet rolls

Running and climbing

Rabbits love to run around, and some also like to climb. There are numerous ways you can allow them to engage in this behaviour safely:

• Provide them space to run around
• Securely set up a series of cardboard boxes for them to climb on
• Use cat towers or platforms for them to climb on and jump between

Tip: Ensure your rabbit has a place to hide at all times, even when you’re playing together.

Additionally, you need to ensure your rabbit is safe during playtime. Safety measures include the following:

• Make sure the room or area is “bunny-proofed”—secure (your rabbit can’t escape), free from other animals (such as cats or dogs), and hazard-free (e.g. remove or secure any loose cables).
• Don’t overcrowd the environment. Not only can it be overwhelming to your rabbit, but it will also restrict their space to run around and play.
• Introduce enrichment toys individually and see how your rabbit reacts to them. Like us, rabbits have their own personalities, so they’ll like some things but not others.
• Make sure you use appropriate toys and equipment. For example, if you’re using a cat tower as a climbing frame for your bunny, it must be small and low to the ground. Some cat towers can be 6 feet tall, and you wouldn’t want your bunny rabbit falling from that height!
• Check the environment. This is particularly important if you’re playing outside, as several plants are toxic to rabbits. You’ll need to ensure that your bunny doesn’t nibble them.

Rotate your bunny’s toys and equipment so they have fresh things to play with and don’t become bored.

Socialising your bunny

Rabbits are social animals, so it’s ideal to house them with at least one or more additional rabbit companions. These companions will keep your rabbit company while you’re away and help reduce stress. A desexed male and a desexed female often make a good pair. It’s important to keep note though, that it may take time and patience for them to get used to one another.

Contrary to belief, guinea pigs do not make good companions for rabbits. Rabbits often intimidate the smaller creatures and can pass diseases onto them. Both rabbits and guinea pigs prefer the company of their own species.

Remember that domestic rabbits are bred explicitly as pets and differ significantly from their wild counterparts. If you released your pet rabbit into the wild it couldn’t survive alone, which is why your rabbit will bond with you as you begin to look after them.

Your pet rabbit might not be able to talk to you in a language you understand, but they will love it when you talk to them and respond with squeaks and other noises to let you know how happy they are to be in your company.

Pet rabbits and children

Don’t leave young children unsupervised with rabbits or allow young children to pick rabbits up. As previously mentioned, these are prey animals, so they really don’t like to be handled. Avoid picking them up where possible, but if necessary, place one hand under the rump to support their weight and gently place the other hand on their chest to secure them.

Never pick a rabbit up by one limb, and don’t pick them up by the scruff. Many mother animals pick up their babies by the scruff – but that’s during infancy. It’s incredibly uncomfortable for a fully grown rabbit (or cat or dog) to be picked up by the scruff and have all their weight hanging from a fragile piece of skin.

Rabbits are a long term care pet

So, let’s answer the question, ‘how long do pet rabbits live?’.

You may not realise how long pet rabbits can live—most will live for 10-12 years, so you need to ensure you can commit to this amount of time and care before adopting. They will require daily care, regular check-ups, vaccinations, and a long-term commitment from you to be their carer.

Of course, you won’t always be home, but if you are away, you’ll need to establish a carer for your bunny before you go. This carer needs to be an adult who knows what they are doing and will treat your rabbit with the love and attention that it deserves.

If you’re sick of asking family and friends to pet-sit or you’ve run out of options, Mad Paws offers a sitter service. We connect you to experienced sitters in your area, each vetted to ensure they’ll provide your pet with the best care. 

Simply enter your postcode (or search by area) to view sitter profiles in your area. Once you narrow down the search, you can arrange a meet-and-greet to ensure they’re the perfect match for your pet. 

Like any pet, rabbits require an investment of your love, time, and finances. Still, the love and companionship they will give you in return is the best reward! 

The post Tips for owning (or caring for) a pet rabbit appeared first on Mad Paws.

March is pet adoption month so what better time than now to shed some light on the world of pet adoption, and also highlight the wonderful work of the RSPCA Adopt a Pet program.

And, because at Mad Paws we’re obsessed with pets, we’ll also share some heartwarming stories of pet adoption from members in our team. Cue the tissues!

How does pet adoption work?

Pet adoption is about providing a second chance to an animal in need of their forever home. For various reasons, pets are surrendered to shelters such as RSPCA because their owner could no longer care for them. 

Whether you choose to adopt a pet who’s young, like a puppy or kitten, a senior pet, or a pet with special care requirements, these animals will undoubtedly leave a paw print on your heart.

Pet adoption requires some research and planning to ensure you’re matched with the pet that will fit into your family and lifestyle. Remember, they’re a lifelong responsibility so it’s vital that you consider all factors before diving in to pet adoption. This is where you can seek the guidance of pet adoption shelter staff who can talk to you about each particular animal, their needs, and their background.

RSPCA NSW, for example, will also ask you questions about how they will live with you – do you have other pets? What exercise and routine can you provide? These questions and more will help to determine the breed and/or specific pet will be right for you. Above all else, their main concern is the animal’s welfare. After all, it’s about finding their forever home.

Pet adoption success stories from the Mad Paws pack

Meet Abbie and Billy

Abbie works in our Customer Service and Support team, and adopted Billy in 2023 after his original owners could no longer care for him due to allergies. This union was just meant to be!

Meet Hannah and Pearl

Hannah, who works for our Pet Chemist business in Queensland, discovered Pearl and was instantly in love. Pearl deserves all the love in the world and Hannah is the perfect pet parent to provide that!

Meet Soti, Boomer and Jiji

Soti, our Creative Director at Mad Paws, adopted Boomer and Jiji 10 years ago. Although Boomer has some health issues, he wouldn’t change a thing. Soti feels privileged to care for them and provide the best life imaginable.

Meet Shannon, Lockie and Zoe

Shannon is Mad Paws’ Office Manager and has adopted two beautiful kitties from RSCPA NSW Shelter. On a work trip to visit the shelter, she couldn’t resist the purrs of Zoe and knew that this would be Lockie’s new sibling!

Meet Ellie and Yhandi

Ellie’s our Warehouse Manager based in Melbourne and moved heaven and earth to adopt this mixed breed, Yhandi. It’s been love at first site since 2021 after driving 4 hours to meet him!

Keen for more beautiful pet adoption stories to read? Check out these happy tales (and tails).

Where to look for pets up for adoption

Every year, the RSPCA provides shelter to thousands of animals in need of a good home. If you’re looking to adopt a pet, consider the RSPCA Adopt a Pet program.

Before jumping into the search for your forever fur friend, take a look at some helpful information about what responsible pet ownership looks like. And, recap on all the reasons why adopting a pet will change both your life and that of the animal.

Not sure if you’re ready to adopt a pet?

Perhaps a pet foster care program may be your first step. RSPCA NSW’s Foster Care program provides temporary homes to animals who need a helping hand. Temporary care may be needed where an animal is too young to be adopted, or if they’re in recovery from an injury, illness or surgery, or because a shelter may be overwhelming for that particular animal. Pet foster care is also common in regional areas where there isn’t an RSPCA facility nearby to provide shelter.

Foster care is all about providing the level of care and support they need until they’re ready to be adopted into loving forever homes.

The post Pet adoption stories that’ll melt your heart appeared first on Mad Paws.

The decision to adopt a pet is life-changing in more ways than one. Not only can you provide a loving home for a furry friend in need, but it can also benefit you and your family. In Australia, millions of homeless animals desperately need a forever home. 

According to the RSPCA, 94,828 animals entered their shelters alone from 2021 to 2022. Thankfully, due to the RSPCA’s committed work, most animals were either returned to their owners or rehomed. 

But they can only continue their good work with our help. So, In this article, we will highlight the major reasons why adopting a pet is a great idea and how it can help reduce the number of homeless animals in Australia.

1. Adopt a pet to save a life

One of the most compelling reasons to adopt a pet is to save a life. Adopting a pet from an animal shelter gives a loving home to an animal that may otherwise face euthanasia. 

With a shocking 264 dogs and cats euthanised every day, the need to adopt our pets is greater than ever. Adopting a pet not only saves their life but also helps to reduce the number of homeless animals. Alternatively, consider fostering a dog or cat if you can.

2. Improve your mental and physical health

Studies have shown that pets can positively impact their owner’s mental and physical health, as well as our quality of life as a whole. 

Adopting a pet can:

1. Help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. 
2. Provide companionship, which can be especially vital for older individuals, those grieving a loved one, those facing health issues and those who live alone. 

Additionally, owning a dog can encourage physical activity and help improve cardiovascular health.

3. Teach children responsibility and compassion

Adopting a cat or a dog is also good for a child’s physical and mental health and helps them develop vital social skills, including being more empathetic with other children. Children who grow up with pets learn how to care for another living being, which can help instil a sense of responsibility and empathy. Kids with dogs also have less anxiety. 

Moreover, caring for a pet can help children develop a sense of compassion towards animals and other living beings.

4. Adopting is cost-effective

Adopting a pet from an animal shelter is usually less expensive than buying one from a breeder or a pet store. Many animal shelters charge a nominal adoption fee to cover the cost of vaccinations and sterilisation. 

The RSPCA adoption fees are much lower than buying from a breeder, which can often charge thousands, and the fees go towards helping more animals. Additionally, many shelter animals are already housetrained and socialised, saving you time and money on training.

5. Find the perfect match

When you adopt a pet from an animal shelter, you can find the perfect match for your family and lifestyle. Animal shelters have various animals of different breeds, sizes, and personalities. By working with the staff, you can find a pet that fits your needs and personality, ensuring that you are well-suited for one another.

6. Help fight the backyard breeders and puppy mills

By adopting a pet, you are helping to reduce the demand for dogs and cats, which leads to problems like puppy mills and backyard breeders. Many pet stores and breeders also prioritise profits over the welfare of animals, which can result in unethical breeding practices and poor living conditions for the animals. 

By adopting a pet from a shelter, you are taking a stand against these practices and promoting the ethical treatment of animals.

7. Give an older pet a second chance

Older pets are often overlooked in shelters, as many prefer to adopt younger puppies and kittens. However, adopting a senior pet can be incredibly rewarding. Older animals are typically already trained and socialised, and they often have a calmer demeanour than younger animals and are happier taking a nap in the sun. 

Older pets mean you don’t have sleepless nights housetraining or dealing with issues like teething. Additionally, adopting pets in their golden years can be a great choice for those who don’t have the time or energy to train a young animal.

8. Free up space in shelters

When pets are adopted, shelters can accommodate more animals in need without euthanising them due to overcrowding. Adopting a pet can help reduce the burden on rescues and allow them to focus their resources on providing care for animals still waiting for their forever homes.

9. Prevent overpopulation

Getting an animal from a shelter can help overpopulation because most shelters will spay or neuter their animals before adoption. This helps to reduce the number of homeless animals and prevent unwanted litter. By adopting a pet, you’re helping to support responsible pet ownership and reduce the strain on animal shelters.

10. Bragging rights (in a good way!)

Adopting a pet can give you bragging rights. Not only can you proudly say that you’ve saved a life, but you can also share your adoption story with others and encourage them to consider adoption as well. This way, we can help more than just our own animals but also positively impact our community.

11. Make a lifelong friend

The most important reason to adopt a pet is to make a lifelong friend. Pets offer unconditional love and companionship and can become an integral part of your life. Adopting a pet means committing to care for them for the rest of their life, and in return, they will provide you with years of love and joy.

Final thoughts

Adopting a pet is a beautiful decision with numerous benefits for both the animal and the adopter. By adopting a pet from a reputable animal shelter like the RSPCA, you are providing a loving home for an animal in need, improving your mental and physical health, teaching children responsibility and compassion, and helping to reduce the demand for pet stores and breeders. 

With millions of homeless animals in Australia, adopting a pet is a small but significant way to make a difference in their lives. So, if you’re thinking about getting a pet, consider adopting one from an animal shelter and give a furry friend a second chance at life.

Learn more about pet adoption at RSPCA >

The post 11 reasons why you should adopt a pet appeared first on Mad Paws.

So, pre-order your dog treats and toys and make space on the couch, because you’re well on your way to finding your furrever friend!

Which pupper will be pawfect for YOU?

How to choose the right dog breed for your family

Family is by far the biggest factor in choosing the right dog for your household. If you have children, for example, you’ll want to familiarise yourself with the top child-friendly dogs. But, just because you don’t see a dog on the list, doesn’t mean it’s not the right breed for your family. Here are a few other ways to think about whether a dog breed will fit in with your family dynamic:

• Gentle dogs are typically better for very young children. There’s nothing cuter than a picture of a toddler cuddling a terrier, but when it comes to young kids, you might be better off with more even-tempered personalities. Bulldogs and Bull Terriers are relaxed, patient puppers who get along swimmingly with very young children. Take a look at our list of Eight Calmest Dog Breeds for more ideas. 
• Medium-to-high energy dogs can be a dream for older kiddos. Now, if we’re talking about kids who are bouncing off the walls with energy, you can take your search in a completely different direction! Boisterous kids can get along well with equally playful dogs like Corgis and Vizslas.
• Very social dogs will fit in well with large families. Some dogs enjoy an always busy household, while others would prefer to have their alone time. If your home is always filled with playing kids, band practice, family game night and more, a highly social dog, like the Bull Arab or Cocker Spaniel, will fit right in..

One thing to remember is that no matter if a dog makes the list of family-friendly dog breeds, all dogs need proper socialisation, training, and care to become a loving member of your pack. Always supervise children around dogs and teach every family member how to interact safely with dogs.

How to choose the right dog breed for your personality

Whether you have a big family or are living on your own, personality is another huge factor when deciding how to choose the right dog breed. Here are a few ways that your personality can help guide your choice:

• You’re very active. Is your free time packed with adventure and outdoor activities? Then, you’ll love a highly energetic breed like the Belgian Malinois. If, on the other hand, your active lifestyle will mean that you spend a lot of time away from Fido, you’ll want to stick with a more independent pup like a Maremma Sheepdog. 

• You’re a happy homebody. Velcro dogs, like the American Staffordshire Terrier, are going to be the perfect match for anyone who wants a constant companion for their time spent at home. Most velcro dogs are quite cuddly, although some just want to be near you without curling up on your lap.

• You’re a natural-born leader. Some dogs have strong personalities and will benefit from an Owner who can confidently fill the role of dedicated at-home trainer and staunch rule setter. Highly intelligent, clever, or somewhat stubborn dogs, like the Westie, for instance, are best-suited for Owners who will gladly fill the leadership role. 

• You’re on the less-assertive side. Not all of us want a dog breed who will challenge us at every turn. You might find that a go-with-the-flow dog, like the Papillon, is more your speed.

• You enjoy having friends over. If you’re a social butterfly, you’ll want a doggo who acts as the perfect welcoming committee! Poodle hybrids, like the Sheepadoodle, are not only bubbly and friendly, but their hypoallergenic coats will be ideal for your range of houseguests.

Deciding how to choose the right dog breed for your personality can feel a bit like taking a silly personality quiz. But, the truth is, keeping your own habits, hobbies, and needs in mind is a key way to find your perfect doggy match.  

How to find the canine companion for your climate, outdoor environment, and home

In addition to specific tasks and jobs, a dog breed’s history has a lot to do with the climate of their homeland. Salukis are primed for desert sands, Catahoula Leopard Dogs for humid swamplands, and fluffy Huskies for Siberia. 

Now, that doesn’t mean that your dog’s background will make them miserable in your climate. But, you’ll want to take special precautions to keep heat-loving dogs warm in winter and winter-loving dogs cool in summer.

Whether you live in the country or city should also play a role in deciding how to choose the right dog breed. Having a nervous Chihuahua in an area where they could be targeted by wildlife, for instance, isn’t the best environment for that doggo. Likewise, a nature-loving Komondor dog might not be totally happy in the middle of a big city.

Just as important as where your home is located is your home layout itself. In truth, many dog breeds will adapt to the size of your home as long as you’re able to fulfill their exercise needs and provide them with ample outdoor time. But, if you’re in a very small apartment, a high energy dog or large dog breed will be the epitome of a bull in a china shop. And, you might want to consider low-barking breeds if you share walls with neighbours.

Dig a little deeper when considering a certain breed

Once you’ve taken into consideration your family dynamics, lifestyle, and living conditions, you’ll have a great framework for finding the right dog breed. But to really land on the ideal doggo for you, don’t overlook these final factors:

• The health profile of a breed. In a perfect world, our puppers would never inherit diseases that would make them anything less than healthy. But in reality, while all dogs can develop health problems, some dog breeds are more prone to genetic conditions than others. Brachy breeds, for instance, might not be compatible with families who travel on planes often because of their respiratory conditions. 
• Breed restrictions in your area. If you’ve fallen in love with a dog breed, check with your local council to make sure there are no restrictions in place to prevent you from bringing home your dream dog. Dogo Argentinos and Japanese Tosas are two examples of dog breeds that aren’t welcome everywhere.
• Tips from fellow Dog Owners. When in doubt about whether a dog is right for you, look to the Dog Owners with first-hand experience! Dog forums are a great place to see what challenges, joys, and everyday quirks come with a certain breed. 
• Your own experience! By far, the best thing you can do when deciding on a breed is to spend time with real life doggos. Attend agility shows and flyball competitions. Invite your Dog Owner friends and their furry besties over for a visit. Over time, you’ll get a better sense of which pupper personality is most compatible with your own!

Now you know how to choose the right dog breed, what are your next steps?

You’re ready to research, reflect, and eventually reach a decision on the type of dog that’s right for you! All that’s left now is to stock up on doggy supplies, sign up for top quality dog food, and start thinking up names. 

Now that you know how to choose the right dog breed for you, we’d love to know which one you’ll welcome into your family!

The post How to choose the right dog breed for you appeared first on Mad Paws.

Before you dive in head first, here’s everything you need to know before you foster a dog.

Are you ready to foster a dog (or other pet)?

Before we get into the practicalities, it’s best to first ask if you’re ready to foster a dog. As much as you might love the idea, it’s all about doing what’s right for the animal. So, before taking the plunge, it’s worth asking yourself the following questions.

Do you have the time to properly care for a dog?

This includes feeding, training, walks, toilet breaks, and, depending on the dog, medical care. Fostering may not suit all lifestyles, particularly those who work irregular hours or travel often for work.

Can you provide a safe, comfortable, and secure environment for a dog?

Some dogs are natural escape artists, so it’s essential to have high, strong fences to keep them within your property. It’s also important to ensure your home is comfortable and warm to help the dog feel safe and welcome.

Is everyone in your household onboard?

If you’re committed to locking all the doors and gates, taking the dog out to do their business, and feeding them high quality, healthy dog food at regular intervals, that’s all well and good. However, you need to get your whole household onboard. After all, it’ll be a collective responsibility regardless of whose name is on the paperwork.

Do you have reliable transport?

It’s not something anyone wants to think about, but accidents and emergencies do happen. Having access to reliable transport is a must in the event of any sudden illness or injury.

If you answered “no” to any of the above questions, you may not be quite ready to foster a dog just yet.

How to become a foster carer

If you are ready to foster a dog, you might be wondering how it actually works. Each rescue organisation has its own process for choosing people to foster their pets. The better-known rescue groups include the RSPCA and Animal Welfare League, however each state has plenty of smaller rescue groups and shelters offering foster programs. It’s worth reaching out to your local rescue group, otherwise you can browse dogs needing foster care on websites like PetRescue.

That said, regardless of which rescue you go with, most will require you to fill out an application. If accepted you’ll undergo induction training, receive lots of information and fostering resources, then wait until you’re matched with an animal in need of foster care.

Preparing to foster a dog

While you’re waiting for that perfect pupper match, there are a couple of things you’ll need to do to prepare your home (and yourself) for the new arrival. 

First up, there’s all the usual dog-proofing stuff – patching up any gaps in fences, keeping food, medication, and cleaning products well out of reach, and removing any potentially poisonous plants for dogs.

This also includes creating a cosy environment for them to relax, with a comfortable calming dog bed, plenty of blankets and toys for them to cuddle and play with. After all, it’s a huge adjustment period for them, too, so having somewhere to retreat to is essential.

Second, and more importantly, there are a few questions you’ll need to ask about your new housemate. Rescue dogs can require extra special care, so take the opportunity to learn as much about their history as you can.

Some questions to ask, include:

• Where they’ve come from
• If they have any behavioural or medical issues
• If they’re housetrained
• How long the foster period is likely to be
• How they interact with other pets or young children.

The answers to these questions will help inform your whole fostering experience, so be sure to ask them.

Responsibilities as a foster paw-rent

When fostering a dog, your primary responsibility is to provide them with a safe, comfortable, and loving environment. The end goal is for your foster pet to find their forever home through pet adoption, so your job is to help them become the best pet they can be in the meantime.

That doesn’t just mean cuddles and playtime – though those are important, too! It also means keeping them both physically and mentally active, training them, and ensuring they receive quality nutrition.

Additionally, the rescue group may ask you to routinely report back with updates about your foster pup’s progress. One of the main reasons dogs enter foster care is to give the rescue group a better idea of their temperament and personality. You may even be asked to help write their pet adoption ad when the time comes!

Costs of fostering a dog or other pet

Fostering is a popular option for people who want a pet but aren’t yet ready to make the financial (and, let’s face it, emotional) commitment that comes with owning a dog. While you won’t make any money as a foster paw-rent, it’s still an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s also an experience that costs very little – in fact, for some, it may cost nothing at all.

Most rescues are run by volunteers and community donations, and each foster program is different. If it’s a larger organisation with more resources, chances are they’ll provide everything you need. On the other hand, some smaller rescue groups will only cover vet costs, while the foster carer pays for food.

Saying goodbye

By far the hardest part of fostering dogs is saying goodbye. It’s easy to become attached to your foster pup, but try to remember that, at the end of the foster period, your furry friend will be with its forever family – and you’ll have saved a life.

Still, for some, saying goodbye is just too hard. So, before you think about fostering a dog, you’ll need to prepare yourself for the possibility of a ‘foster failure’. This occurs when the carer grows so attached to their foster pet that they can’t bear to part with them. Inevitably, they end up adopting the animal themselves. That said, given this ‘failure’ winds up with the pup getting a forever family and you getting a friend for life, we’d call it a success!

The post What you need to know before you foster a dog appeared first on Mad Paws.