For the past 15 years, Nicole and Gary Wordsworth have opened their home to dogs in need — 59 of them so far — and they have no intention of stopping.
The British couple, both now in their 60s, first began fostering while they were still working from home designing electronics. Through Battersea Dogs Home in Buckinghamshire, they welcomed dogs who needed a temporary place to stay away from the stress of kennels.
Now retired, Nicole and Gary continue to foster on a part-time basis, sharing their home with dogs of all shapes, sizes, and personalities, from Siberian huskies to Staffordshire bull terriers.
Some dogs stay for only a few nights, while others remain for months. Their longest foster stayed with them for around 18 months. Whatever the length of the visit, the couple makes sure every dog has the time and space it needs.
Their fostering journey began in 2011 after they spotted an advertisement about helping dogs.
They had already enjoyed looking after pets belonging to friends, so they decided to learn more. Soon afterward, they welcomed their first foster dog, a small Staffie named Marcel.
Since then, the couple has discovered that saying goodbye is easier than many people imagine.
For them, the reward comes from knowing they are helping dogs leave stressful kennel environments and giving them somewhere peaceful to recover, settle down, and feel safe.
Nicole and Gary also enjoy receiving updates after their foster dogs move into permanent homes. Although their time together is temporary, they are happy knowing they played a part in helping each dog reach the next chapter of its life.
After caring for so many animals, the couple has learned that every dog has its own personality — and that there is likely a suitable companion for almost anyone.
Gary says choosing a favorite would be impossible, although certain dogs remain especially memorable.
One of the most rewarding parts of fostering, he explained, is watching a nervous animal slowly become comfortable enough to reveal its true character.
Their observations also help the adoption team at Battersea understand each dog better.
By spending time with the animals in a home environment, Nicole and Gary can learn useful details su