Going The Extra Mile – Dedicated Couple Who Have Fostered Over 200 Rescue Dogs

The team at Dogs Trust West Calder is celebrating the work of two incredibly dedicated and compassionate volunteers who have fostered over 200 dogs. 

Roy and Laura Johnston from Livingston became foster carers for Dogs Trust West Calder in 2016 and have since welcomed into their home over 200 dogs of every size, age and breed.  Their remarkable journey began with a single foster dog, a Shih Tzu called Poppy, which sparked their passion and dedication in caring for dogs in need. 

Dogs Trust foster carers play a major role in helping dogs in the charity's care prepare for a happy future by caring for them on a temporary basis within their home until they find their forever home.   

Time and time again, Roy and Laura's home has been where dogs have experienced love and stability for the first time, which is a wonderful testament to the couple's nurturing spirit. From playful puppies to nervous dogs with no experience of life in a home, Roy and Laura's expertise and patience has helped the dogs flourish, enabling them to find their forever homes.   

Since the Johnston's have been volunteering for Dogs Trust, the committed dog lovers have also adopted five dogs from the charity, with their current furry family consisting of two Shih Tzus, a Dachshund, and a French Bulldog.  

Speaking about being foster carers for Dogs Trust, the couple said: "It is so rewarding and great to watch every dog's confidence grow day by day.  To anyone considering becoming a foster carer, we would say - go for it!" 

Kim McNeill, Assistant Manager Administration at Dogs Trust West Calder said:  "For some of our dogs, kennel life is not best suited to their needs, and this is when we turn to our incredible foster carers for help.  The dedication of our volunteer foster carers is exemplified by the extraordinary efforts of our longest-term foster carers, Roy and Laura Johnston. We are thrilled that their journey with us has reached the amazing milestone of caring for 200 dogs. 

"Their commitment extends beyond providing temporary shelter. They go the extra mile to ensure that every dog is well-prepared for their permanent new home when the time comes. This includes providing socialisation, basic training and unconditional love. Their efforts not only transform the lives of the dogs they foster but also enrich the lives of the families who adopt them.  

"We are incredibly fortunate to have Roy and Laura as part of our fostering family and cannot thank them enough for their support over eight years.  Their tireless efforts embody the spirit of our mission, and we hope their story serves as an inspiration to others who may be considering opening their home and heart to a foster dog." 

Dogs Trust goes the extra mile for every dog to make sure they get the happy ending they deserve. Help Dogs Trust be there for every dog for as long as they need care by visiting www.dogstrust.org.uk/support-us to see how you can support the charity.