Can You Foster If You Have Pets?

If you share your home with a dog, cat or other pet, you might be wondering whether that rules you out from fostering. The good news is that for most people with pets, fostering is absolutely possible. Here’s what you need to know.

Can You Foster If You Have Pets?

Yes, in most cases you can. Having a pet does not automatically disqualify you from fostering. Many foster carers have dogs, cats, rabbits and other animals living in their home alongside the children they care for. In fact, research suggests that animals can have a positive therapeutic effect on children who have experienced trauma.

Which Pets Are Generally Accepted?

The following pets are commonly accepted in foster households:

• Dogs — subject to breed assessment and temperament check

• Cats

• Rabbits and small animals (guinea pigs, hamsters, etc.)

• Fish and reptiles

• Birds

  

Which Pets May Be Problematic?

Certain animals may raise concerns during the assessment process. These include:

• Dogs on the prohibited breeds list (e.g. Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro)

• Dogs with a history of aggression or attacks

• Large or powerful breeds that may pose a risk to young children

• Any animal with a record of biting or unpredictable behaviour

How Are Pets Assessed?

As part of your fostering assessment, your pets will be assessed alongside your home and family. Your Assessing Social Worker will consider the temperament, size and behaviour of any animals in your household. For dogs in particular, you may be asked to demonstrate how your dog behaves around children, strangers and in different situations.

You will also be asked about your protocols for managing your pets safely — for example, whether animals are kept separate during mealtimes, or how you would handle a situation where a child is scared of your pet.

What If a Child Is Allergic to or Afraid of Animals?

When a child is being matched with a foster family, their Social Worker will take into account any allergies, phobias or specific needs — including fear of or sensitivity to animals. If a child has a severe allergy, it is unlikely they would be placed in a home with the triggering animal. This means that having pets may limit the age range or profile of children you can foster, but it rarely prevents fostering altogether.

Tips for Foster Carers with Pets

• Ensure all dogs are up-to-date with vaccinations, microchipped and licensed

• Think about where your pet sleeps and how you can create safe, pet-free spaces for children

• Be prepared to discuss your pet management plan during your home assessment

• Consider how you would manage introductions between a new child and your pet on day one

Still Have Questions?

If you have pets and are wondering whether they might affect your fostering application, the best thing to do is get in touch and have an honest conversation with our team. We’ll talk you through the assessment process and what we’d need to see. Don’t rule yourself out before you’ve had that conversation.