Fostering with a View to Adopt

Fostering with a view to adopt gives you the chance to welcome a spaniel into your home on a foster basis, with the intention of offering them a forever home if the match feels right for both of you. It's not a test you can fail. It's simply a kinder, more considered way to find your perfect companion.

How does fostering with a view to adopt work?

FTA follows the same process as our standard fostering programme, with one important difference – from the very beginning, the understanding is that adoption is the likely outcome. Here's what to expect:

Apply

Complete our foster application form. Tell us about your home and lifestyle. You can let us know in the notes that you’re considering fostering with a view to adopt. The more we know about you, the better we can match you.

Home check

One of our dedicated volunteers will carry out a home check – a friendly, informal visit to make sure your home is safe and suitable for a spaniel.

Meeting your match

We'll work hard to find a spaniel whose temperament, energy level and needs are a good fit for you and your household. We never rush this part.

The foster period begins

Your spaniel comes home with you on a foster basis. This settling-in period typically lasts a few weeks, giving your new dog time to decompress and show their true personality – and giving you time to be sure.

Adoption

When you're both ready, we complete the adoption paperwork and make it official. That foster dog becomes yours forever.

Why foster before you adopt?

There are so many good reasons to take the FTA route – whether you're a seasoned spaniel owner or bringing a dog into your life for the very first time.

It takes the pressure off. Bringing a rescue dog home is a big moment. FTA means there's no pressure to decide on day one, you have time to settle in together and trust what you're feeling.

You see the real dog. Rescue dogs often need a few weeks to fully relax and come out of their shell. The dog you meet on collection day may be very different (and even more wonderful, but perhaps a little quirkier) than the dog you see a month later.

It's perfect if you're unsure. Perhaps you've never owned a dog before, or it's been a while. FTA lets you experience life with a spaniel before making a lifelong commitment.

It still saves a life. From the moment your FTA spaniel crosses your threshold, you are giving them safety, love and stability. Whatever happens next, you’ve done a wonderful thing.

Your support network is in place. Throughout the foster period, our team is on hand with advice, guidance and reassurance. You are never on your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone apply for FTA, or is it only for experienced owners?

FTA is open to all applicants – first-time owners and experienced spaniel lovers alike. We assess each application individually and will always match a dog's needs carefully to your circumstances.

Ready to take the first step?

If FTA feels like the right path for you, we'd love to hear from you. Fill out our application form and one of our rehoming team will be in touch to talk things through.