Foster carers urgently needed for animals rescued from cruelty
10 July 2026
RSPCA WA is calling for more “protective custody” foster carers to provide temporary homes for animals while lengthy court proceedings determine their future.
More than 300 animals whose owners were being prosecuted for cruelty by RSPCA WA have spent time in protective custody foster care over the past two years, a 13 per cent increase on the previous two year period.
RSPCA WA Shelter Manager Emily Farrell said these are the animals who need the longest and most complex rehabilitation, with foster care often playing a key part in their recovery.
“Our protective custody foster carers are a special breed,” Ms Farrell said.
“They are the ones who willingly take on animals they know have been abused, neglected, or abandoned, knowing it can be months, sometimes years, before the prosecution of their abusers is finalised. That kind of dedication is extraordinary.”
Two large-scale puppy breeding cases and the seizure of 38 cats from a single suburban home have contributed to the recent increase in protective custody animals needing foster homes.
Ms Farrell said with 21 seized puppies currently in RSPCA WA’s care, the organisation was urging more people to consider fostering.
“Under WA law, we can’t make these animals available for adoption until a Magistrate orders that their ownership is forfeited to the State, or their owners agree to surrender them. Sometimes a decision isn’t made until the owner is sentenced – a process that can take months, even years.
“Where possible, it’s much better for those animals to spend that time in a loving home environment, which is why we’re making this plea.”
RSPCA WA foster carers receive everything they need to look after their foster animal – food, beds, bowls, medication, vet care, leads, toys, pet carriers – there is no financial burden on the carer.
“We also take into consideration your home environment, the ages of family members, any animals you may already own, and your lifestyle to optimise the match between carer and animal.”
Harry, a five-year-old Pomeranian rescued from a Southern River puppy breeding operation, is a prime example of how protective custody foster care plays a vital role in an animal’s recovery and eventual adoption.
Harry entered protective custody foster care in September 2024 after being seized by RSPCA WA inspectors. He spent an incredible 610 days in foster until he could finally be made available for adoption just six weeks ago.
He was adopted by a relative of his protective custody foster carer who says, “Harry has brought a real positive energy to the household, and we love him. He’s a happy little guy, and his funny antics always make us smile. Although he had a rough start, I feel blessed that I am able to make sure the rest of his life is a happy one.”
People interested in becoming a protective custody foster carer can learn more and apply via the RSPCA WA website.
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