RSPCA member societies work with rescue groups in various ways to maximise positive welfare outcomes for animals who come into our care.
A rescue group is defined as a not-for-profit group or organisation that rehomes companion animals. A rescue group may operate as a shelter and/or foster care network.
The RSPCA may work with a rescue group in two ways: to help rehome animals and/or to provide foster care:
- Rehoming involves permanent transfer of ownership from the RSPCA to the rescue group where the rescue group will rehome the animal.
- Fostering involves the RSPCA retaining ownership of the animal and utilising the rescue group’s foster care network which may act as an extension of the RSPCA’s own foster care network.
The welfare of each individual animal is prioritised when making decisions about the placement of an animal.