I have been a Foster Carer since 2021, after retiring from the Australian Defence Force and moving to acreage. Similar to my past career, I was looking for something that gave me purpose and contributed to the community.
Becoming a Foster Carer gave me this and has been an incredible journey both in learning and personal growth. In this time, we have cared for 70 calves, 21 sheep and lambs, five goats, two pigs and two Alpacas.
We have also assisted with rescuing calves, a cockatoo and ducks for other carers; and helped re-home a few others when an animal’s family has had a change in circumstances.
Each animal has had their own challenges and shown me how deserving they are of care and compassion. Those few that could not survive, were treated with dignity and loved until the end. All of them have helped me more than I have helped them.
We have been supported by an amazing team that has allowed us to challenge the production and commercial perspective of animal care and ensure they receive the same treatment as ‘pets’.
This support has allowed us to provide holistic care using Veterinary, Allied Health Services and Alternative Therapies. This has seen some amazing recoveries even when we had nearly exhausted every viable option. One day we hope this may also extend to hospice and palliative care options for animals.
Every animal has their own personality, we just need to take the time to get to know them and build trust. This takes time but is worth every second.
