Everything you need to know about fostering a dog

Understanding the purpose

This isn’t a time where you can just temporarily enjoy a pet. The goal is to transform a shelter dog into a pet, and help another family find the right dog for their home.

That said, it’s perfect if you’re not ready for commitment

Maybe you've been thinking about getting a dog, or perhaps starting a family, but you’re not sure you’re ready. This is a great way to get some practice while doing a good deed!

Puppies!

Shelters typically foster out dogs who are stressed by the shelter or need more individual attention, including puppies who are too young to be adopted.

Creating a safe space

One main focus of fostering a dog is to create an environment where they can come out of their shell.

Playing nurse

Fostering is also necessary when a shelter dog is recovering from an illness or injury.

Manage your expectations

It won’t be all cuddles, strolls, and fun right away. Puppies especially are a common desire when people seek to foster dogs, but they are more likely to have accidents, whine at night, and destroy things they shouldn’t.

Sufficient space

You need space for all the things that dogs require, including some space solely for the dog as they get adjusted to their new environment.

If you’re especially emotionally strong...

You can also foster old or sick dogs in need of loving hospice care.

Signs of previous abuse

They may have developed defense mechanisms or poor habits like a lack of housetraining, perhaps because they had no previous set up, or they’ve spent their whole lives outside.

They may not be receptive to affection, and may even resort to biting. Just as some people are afraid of dogs after a traumatic experience, dogs are also afraid of humans after being mistreated.

Learn how to train

Basic training and obedience techniques are helpful to have before you start fostering, so you'll better communicate with the dog.

Tell the rescue group about yourself

If it’s your first time fostering, they’ll set you up with an “easier” dog, and they’ll also take your lifestyle and home into consideration.

Be the dog's advocate

The end goal is to get the dog into a permanent home, and that may mean you have to tell others how great he/she is. Some organizations, however, already have homes for the dogs, and you're just watching them before they can get there.

Remember

Fostering saves these dogs' lives, and by letting your foster dog be adopted into a permanent home, you free up space for another dog in need. The satisfaction of finding a dog a home outlasts the sadness.

Some things you might need

A baby gate to keep them in one section of the home at first, a dog bed, a dog brush, bitter apple spray (to discourage inappropriate chewing), toys, and treats.

You won’t make money, but it’ll be valuable

While the shelter will often provide some food and gear, as well as cover health costs, you’ll still be paying for the extras. That said, you’ll be rewarded with priceless playtimes, snuggles, and the feeling of knowing you are helping to save a life.

Where to start?

The easiest way to get started fostering is to connect with a reputable rescue group. Call them, and get in touch with previous foster parents as well.