The reasoning behind this is not financial - although we save on kennel running costs or boarding fees, our transport and communication costs are higher with this system - but it is better for the dogs.

Border Collies do not generally fare well in kennels - the restrictions on exercise, mental stimulation & personal attention are detrimental to the well being of the dog - the excitement and noise of other dogs kept in close proximity induces hyperactivity in many Border Collies.

As many of the dogs referred to us are suffering from, or on the verge of, behavioural problems, a kennel system often makes matters worse. It is also very difficult to really get to know a dog if it is in kennels and the attention of the person handling the dog is spread between many others.

Proper assessment under these conditions is almost impossible.

Correct assessment is important. We need a proper understanding of the character and needs of a dog in our care before we can clear it for re-homing. Without this understanding, we will not have sufficient information to enable us to make responsible decisions when selecting a new home.

There are a huge number of dogs needing YOUR help. A single foster carer can help lots of dogs each year but will need the courage to part with them, love to spare for them while in care, an altruistic attitude as they are doing the job for someone else, not themselves and practical responsibility to observe the dog objectively - not through rose tinted glasses.

Foster carers are required to keep a written daily notation of the dogs behaviour, noting any changes and peculiarities that need attention and monitoring diet and habits.

The information gathered on the dog is passed onto the co-ordinator who is responsible for the dogs re-homing to enable them to decide when the dog is ready to be re-homed and to help them select a suitable home for the dog.

It is also useful if a foster carer is able to assist in the rehabilitation and retraining of a dog, implementing instructions from the co-ordinator in charge and noting results. Foster carers can also get involved in the assessment process if they are capable and willing.

On some occasions we may ask a foster carer to assist in the home visit and re-homing process, either by accompanying a home visitor or (if also a registered BCR home visitor), on their own.

This may carry through to the actual homing of the dog - on the instructions of the co-ordinator - and follow up calls to monitor the dogs progress in the new home.

Homing a dog does not mean that a foster carer has to lose contact with it. In BCR we recognise that people invest time and effort, for the sake of the dog, and sometimes the only reward is to see the dog happy and content in its new home.

Some foster carers do not wish to get that involved or go through the training process to qualify for the extra activities. That is up to the individual.

Fostering a dog for BCR need not involve the foster carer in any expense. Vet bills are covered by BCR with an account at a nearby vet who will invoice us directly.

Food is supplied by BCR or can be claimed back. Travel costs are also reclaimable. There is a time limit on reclaiming legitimate out of pocket expenses and claims must be in within 30 days of the date on the receipts on a claims form available from BCR.

Any necessary equipment will be supplied by BCR and would remain the property of the charity. The dogs also remain the property of the charity and HAVE to be surrendered when required. We have to remember that we do this for the sake of the dogs.

Some foster homes specialise only in puppies - some in geriatric dogs. Some can only handle placid dogs and some are capable of taking on and controlling dominant or aggressive dogs. Border Collie Rescue needs many different types of foster home to suit all the variations of character and need of the dogs we are called on to take in.

General help

There are no qualifications needed to join us other than honesty, kindness, care & common sense. Sharing tasks makes burdens lighter.

If you can give a little time to help us generally we will be able to use your services somewhere, sometime. But be prepared to be surprised at what you can do and be prepared to enjoy doing it.

The Rules are mainly common sense but, we are funded by donation and we have, by law, to be accountable for the way that the money we receive is spent, so the rules, especially those regarding the keeping of financial records are strictly upheld.

As a voluntary organisation, no-one in Rescue is paid for the time they put in and as volunteers, no-one is expected to put in more than they wish or can afford to.

No-one in Rescue is expected to put money in. It is not a requirement and authorised out of pocket expenses are reclaimable by members. Those fostering dogs are covered for food and care.

Travel expenses are paid where applicable, if a member uses their own vehicle. These expenses are available to all members but it is not compulsory to accept them. If you wish you can always donate them to Rescue.