The nation's largest pet shelter is seeking foster owners in a Kent town.

Battersea is seeking Ashford residents who would be able to temporarily look after cats and dogs, offering free pet food, equipment and vet treatments.

It is setting up a so-called 'community' - only the second of its kind - to support its rehousing efforts.

The charity hopes to rehome many more animals in the area through Community Rehoming Volunteers (CRVs), who will be recruited to care for animals temporarily while taking an active role in finding them a permanent home.

The Battersea Communities schemes are supported by the People’s Postcode Lottery.

Emma Harrison, Battersea Communities manager, said: "We know this has been a difficult year for so many but we want to start looking to the future. Our ultimate goal at Battersea is to help as many dogs and cats as possible.

"Once established, we hope to have 10 Community Rehoming Volunteers per community, who can all help us spread the message that rescue is best.”

Battersea is currently looking for applicants that ideally live in the postcodes TN23-30 and do not have young children or other pets at home.

Applicants need access to a car in case the animal they are looking after needs veterinary attention, and should be able to commit to looking after each dog or cat for a few weeks or, potentially, a couple of months.

All volunteers will receive ongoing support and behavioural training.

For Ashford residents that are unable to take an animal into their home but still want to help, Battersea is also looking to recruit animal lovers who live locally and are able to offer some of their time to support and promote Battersea at community events.

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The KM Group is committed to helping the community through the KM Charity team. For more information and to find out what other good causes you can get involved in click here.

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