Couple devoted to foster guests

For Busselton’s Michael and Janice Bretag, volunteering as foster carers for Saving Animals From Euthanasia in the past two years has seen a cavalcade of new family members come and go at their house.

Speaking to the Times during National Volunteer Week, which started on Monday, the couple said they began volunteering with SAFE in November, 2014 after reading about the organisation in an article.

They have since devoted their time and energy to providing temporary care for rescue dogs, which are often facing abandonment or death.

Mr Bretag said the couple had a variety of dogs in their care, some of which had become temporary tenants from two-six weeks.

“We have all different sorts of dogs with different personalities,” he said.

“Every dog is different and no two have the same attitude.”

Mrs Bretag said the couple moved to Busselton about five years ago and began volunteering in the community in various areas and capacities.

“I can say, in all honesty, that we love what we do,” she said. “We call these dogs our grandchildren because we don’t have them with us down here.

“When they get adopted out, Michael and I can feel good that they are going to a new home and will be loved.”

SAFE Busselton dog co-ordinator Geoff Cussworth said the organisation relied heavily on volunteers.

“I’ve noticed, with Janice and Michael, there’s a willingness to learn,” he said.

“To have such good people around is so important.

“It’s lovely for the dogs and makes my job easy knowing I’ve got reliable people to look after them.”