Co Antrim woman says fostering rescue dogs was “the best decision I’ve ever made” as Dogs Trust appeals for more volunteers

Dogs Trust foster carer Janet Millar, with dog Jeff

For Janet Millar, opening her home to rescue dogs waiting for their forever families has brought companionship, routine and purpose — and now the County Antrim woman is encouraging others to consider doing the same.

The Parkgate resident says becoming a foster carer for Dogs Trust Ballymena was “the best decision I’ve ever made”, as the charity launches an appeal for more volunteers across Northern Ireland to help meet growing demand.

Dogs Trust Ballymena is currently caring for 52 dogs, with only seven of those staying in foster homes. The charity says expanding its network of foster carers would allow it to help significantly more dogs at a time when rescue centres continue to face pressure for space.

A temporary home that changes lives

Janet began fostering for Dogs Trust in January last year after being inspired by the television programme Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake.

A lifelong dog lover and former dog owner, she said fostering offered the ideal way to continue enjoying the companionship of dogs without the long-term commitment of permanent ownership.

Since joining the programme, Janet has welcomed 12 rescue dogs into her home while they waited to be adopted.

Although saying goodbye can be emotional, she says the rewards far outweigh the difficult moments.

Janet said:

“Being a Foster Carer with Dogs Trust Ballymena is the best decision I have ever made. I wish I’d done it years ago.

“The staff at Dogs Trust Ballymena are so friendly, and they have so much love for the dogs in their care.

“Being a foster carer means that when I am available, I have the pleasure of caring for a dog in my home until they are adopted. It doesn’t cost me anything except my time, as Dogs Trust provides everything the dog needs.

“I have fostered 12 dogs so far, and each one has been an absolute delight.”

More than companionship

Janet’s current foster dog – Pippa – who awaits to be adopted.

Janet says fostering has brought unexpected benefits to her own life as well as the dogs she cares for.

She explained that having dogs in the house has given her structure and routine in retirement, while also encouraging her to remain active and socially connected.

“The flexibility of fostering suits my life, and I love the company of a dog in my home,” she said.

“I feel more secure at night and sleep much better.

“Being retired, it’s very easy to become lazy, but having a dog not only gives me purpose, a reason to get out of bed in the morning and a routine, but it keeps me organised and fit.

“I meet so many people when out walking who stop to talk when they see the Dogs Trust lead, and there really is nothing better than a furry bundle cuddled up beside you on the sofa, except maybe two furry bundles.”

While each adoption brings mixed emotions, Janet says the knowledge that another dog will soon need help makes every goodbye worthwhile.

“Although I do shed a tear when they are adopted, it’s so rewarding, and there will always be another dog waiting for your help,” she said.

“For anyone thinking of fostering, I would say, just do it. You won’t regret it. There are so many dogs out there waiting for your love.”

Helping Dogs Trust care for more dogs

Dogs Trust says foster carers play a critical role in enabling the charity to support more dogs than kennel capacity alone would allow.

By welcoming dogs into temporary homes, foster carers help create additional space at the Ballymena rehoming centre for animals arriving in urgent need of care.

The arrangement is designed to be flexible, allowing volunteers to foster when they are available and take breaks whenever needed.

Importantly, all costs associated with caring for the dogs are covered by the charity, including food, bedding, grooming and veterinary treatment, while expert support and advice remain available throughout the fostering period.

Carrie McErlean, Foster Coordinator at Dogs Trust Ballymena, said:

“With so many dogs needing our help right now, having the support from wonderful foster carers like Janet is vital.

“We don’t have the kennel space for all the dogs who need us, so by offering a temporary home, you’re not only giving a dog safety, comfort and love when they need it most, but helping us free up space in our centre for other dogs who desperately need support.”

She added:

“Fostering can be such a rewarding experience, and a way to make a real difference without a long-term commitment.

“We are so lucky to have foster carers like Janet who take in dogs, no matter the breed, age or personality, and show them love in a home environment, and we are always looking for more.”

How to get involved

Dogs Trust Ballymena is encouraging anyone interested in becoming a foster carer to get in touch to find out more about the process.

Potential volunteers can speak to staff at the Ballymena centre, call in for an informal chat or apply online.

With dozens of dogs currently relying on the charity’s support, each additional foster home has the potential to make room for another dog in need — offering safety, comfort and companionship while they wait for a permanent family to come along.

For more information about becoming a foster carer, visit: https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/foster