Andy & Val

Transporter and Fosterer

Andy and his mum Val have been fostering for IRR since our conception in 2005 expecting to foster a few dogs a year maybe. Andy is always willing to meet dogs off transport in the middle of the night and transport them to their foster home. He also does home checks and microchips as well as having the honour of fostering many more dogs for IRR than anyone else. On a few occasions, when Sandie has had an influx of dogs or has dogs who need “special care”, Andy has made the long trip over to Ireland to collect them.

At the Reunions and Special Events, Andy and Val were always first in the queue to help out.

At the beginning they were more than a little apprehensive, and have had to learn as they went along. Some of their guests presented them with a challenge, but they were the ones who gave them the greatest sense of satisfaction, when the dogs learnt to fully trust them, or returned to full health. They admit to still learning now, as each dog has different needs and their own unique personality.

Andy says. “The question we are always asked is……”how can you give them up?” and on many occasions it has been incredibly sad parting with them. Not having dogs of our own meant we were in a good position to accommodate most types of dog. It is this that allows us to wave goodbye to our wonderful furry friends, knowing that they are going to a great home, and there will always be another dog arriving soon in need of our help.

It is an experience we would not have missed for the world, and we hope to carry on as long as the IRR will have us. We have met lots of lovely people, many of them keeping us updated on how our dogs are, some even bringing them back to visit.”

Both Val and Andy are very fond of Sandie’s dogs and even on holiday in Turkey, Val could not resist having cuddles with the local canines.

Andy says “I have given this a little thought and have decided on these 3 pictures which, for me, illustrate what it is all about, and why we foster…………a sort of before and after.”

However in July 2010, having not had a foster dog for a while Andy and Val decided to adopt Smudge who fits perfectly into their environment and is a wonderful, calm mentor for their foster dogs.

Sadly, in late 2014, their adorable Smudge went peacefully to Rainbow Bridge