An animal welfare charity is appealing to the public for help through volunteering.

Dogs Trust Shoreham is urgently seeking individuals willing to offer short-term accommodation for dogs as the volume of owners wanting to give up their pets grows, with in excess of 700 calls each week from people unable to look after their animals.

The organisation has warned that without additional volunteers opening their homes, it will struggle to support dogs in need of care and attention.

Rehoming centre manager Kirsty Hayward explained that foster carers are vital given the sheer number of dogs currently requiring assistance.

The centre does not have enough kennel space for all the dogs needing help. By welcoming a dog into your home temporarily, you offer it safety, love, and comfort during a challenging time while also allowing the charity to make room for other dogs waiting to be admitted.

The fostering arrangement allows individuals or families to care for a dog until a suitable long-term placement can be found.

This timeframe can range from a few days to several months.

Dogs Trust covers all expenses related to fostering, including food, bedding, grooming products, and veterinary care.

People considering becoming foster carers also receive full training and support from the charity to help them understand dog behaviour and build confidence in animal care.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and live within a reasonable distance of the Shoreham site on Brighton Road.

The charity prefers homes without children but will assess applications from families with youngsters aged 10 and above.

Current household pets are welcome provided dogs have received required vaccinations and have been neutered, and cats are comfortable around dogs.

Further details about fostering placements can be found on the Dogs Trust website.

Since the start of the year, Dogs Trust Shoreham has received over 350 requests from owners hoping to part with their dogs.

Increasing the number of foster homes would reduce pressure on the centre by creating additional kennel capacity for dogs requiring support.

Ms. Hayward noted that offering foster care is highly rewarding and provides a way to make a genuine difference without committing long-term.

Those wishing to become a Dogs Trust foster carer can reach out by telephone, visit the centre personally, or apply through the Dogs Trust website.