Horse foster carers needed

RSPCA Queensland is urgently calling for more volunteers to assist as foster carers for horses across the state.

The charity is responding to an increase in animal welfare investigations regarding horses being found in poor condition.

With 19 horses currently in their care, RSPCA Queensland is expecting an influx due to drier weather conditions impacting feed availability and cost of living pressures for owners. It’s a timely reminder for all horse and livestock owners to prepare their animals by ensuring they have enough feed leading into winter.

“Caring for horses is expensive. They can spend months in in RSPCA care while they get back to full health, and also if they’re a part of active Inspectorate cases.

“When they are ready for adoption, sadly horses can still wait many more months before the right owners come along,” says RSPCA Qld spokesperson Emma Lagoon.

Becoming an RSPCA foster carer is a way that animal lovers can give back.

“If you have the space and set up for a horse at your home, it’s a great way to help an animal in need without the added pet expense,” says Ms Lagoon.

RSPCA Queensland provides all food and veterinary needs required for animal foster carers.

Because not all RSPCA locations are equipped to care for farm animals on-site, the charity relies on volunteer foster carers to help care for animals at their own property.

“Foster carers are invaluable. With their help, we free up shelter capacity and resources to assist more animals in urgent need, and it also gives animals the ability to adjust in a home away from shelter life,” says Ms Lagoon.

Brisbane, Bundaberg, Cairns, Dakabin, Gold Coast, Gympie, Mackay, Rockhampton, Toowoomba and Townsville residents can all assist by signing up to foster care.

To become a foster carer for a horse, apply online or contact fostering@rspcaqld.org.au for more information.