An animal rescue centre is urgently calling for emergency foster carers to look after the pets of people fleeing domestic abuse.

Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare in Ringmer, near Lewes, is seeking foster carers for its Break Away scheme.

The scheme helps owners who are fleeing domestic abuse or facing short-term hospitalisation and need temporary care for their animals.

The Argus: Raystede need foster carers for dogs, cats and rodentsRaystede need foster carers for dogs, cats and rodents (Image: Raystede)

The length of fostering varies depending on circumstances but is usually for around three months or until the owner is in a position for their animal to be returned to them.

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Miriam Dowding, rehoming manager at Raystede, said: “Our Break Away scheme provides a vital service for those who are fleeing domestic abuse. Often people won’t want to leave until they know their animal is also safe, yet many refuges aren’t able to accept animals.”

Fostering best suits people who are home most of the day, such as those who work from home or are retired.

Raystede provides foster carers with all the necessary training, equipment, support and veterinary care.

The Argus: Raystede needs foster carers for rodents such as guinea pigs, pictured, and rabbitsRaystede needs foster carers for rodents such as guinea pigs, pictured, and rabbits (Image: Raystede)

A person who used the scheme said: "In one of the most difficult times we have ever experienced in our lives, you were there to support and keep part of our family together. Because of your care and love we did not need to give our pets away. We will be forever thankful.”

Foster carer requirements      

Fostering works best in homes without other animals or children and applicants must live within 45 minutes of Raystede and be able to drive to Raystede for meets and collections:

  • Dog foster carers - ideally you will have some experience of challenging behaviours, be home for most of the day, and not have any young children or other animals in the home.
  • Rabbit foster carers - rabbits would need either a quiet, rabbit-safe indoor space, such as a spare room, or to be housed outdoors in a secure enclosure (supplied by Raystede).
  • Cat foster carers - ideally you will have some experience of caring for cats, not have any young children or other animals in the home.
  • Rodent foster carers - ideally you will have some experience of caring for rodents (guinea pigs, hamsters, mice, gerbils). Raystede will provide you with a suitable enclosure for them.