Experienced Foster Carers (for Dogs)

Who Are We? New Zealand Chihuahua Rescue (NZCR) is a registered charity dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming Chihuahuas, Chihuahua crosses, and other small breeds across New Zealand. We provide the medical and behavioural care they need to thrive before adoption. NZCR relies entirely on fundraising, projects, and donations to operate. We also take in various other small or toy breed dogs, if and when we have the capacity available to do so. Always under 5-6kg. We are predominantly based in Canterbury but assist dogs from over New Zealand. All dogs are fostered within Christchurch, close to our vet and other clinics or team members.** Please see our website for more information on our charity!

What is the role of a foster carer? Our foster carers are the backbone of our rescue. Since we don’t have a physical shelter, rescued dogs stay in foster homes while receiving the medical and behavioural care they need before adoption. Without dedicated foster carers, we simply can’t help dogs in need.

Fostering is an incredibly rewarding way to give back— sometimes ideal for dog lovers who aren’t ready to adopt again but want to make a real difference in a dog’s life. By opening your home, you’re giving a rescue dog a second chance to find their forever family. But please be aware that it is not all puppy cuddles and rainbows. Rescue dogs can be physically or emotionally “damaged”, require crate or toilet training, and need socialisation or difficult behaviours sorted out. This all takes time, patience and availability. So please only apply if you have realistic expectations of the role and some doggy knowledge and experience.

What do you need to be able to do?

• Must be based in Christchurch (or within 30mins of Christchurch and willing to travel) so that you are close by to our vets, physio, groomers and other team members.
• A healthy and safe environment for the foster dog. This includes a fenced back yard / toileting area.
• Transportation to and from our vet, physio and any other required appointments for your foster dog (within Canterbury); or access to transport/someone to assist with this.
• Knowledge about dog socialisation, training and handling. Able and willing to implement "rules" and follow instructions that our trainer provides.
• Enough free time required to successfully foster a dog. Sorry no full time (out of home) workers. Those WFH, part time, retired but active (read above role description) are suitable.
• Be able to make the commitment to being a foster parent for an undetermined duration of time. We try not to change fosters as it can be unsettling and confusing for the dog.

WE PROVIDE EVERYTHING THE FOSTER DOGS NEED:

• This includes (but is not limited to) dog food, dog treats, medications required, crates, dog pens, beds and bedding, leashes, bowls, harnesses and anything else required.
• We also have medical advisors available on hand. Including one of our Trustees (a registered and practising vet).
• Two dog training businesses that we work with to provide behavioural support.
• A team of supportive, experienced foster parents and Trustees to offer advice and support!