How to Become a Foster Home for Dogs

You have decided to become a foster home for dogs in need, but where do you begin? What will you need to do? How do you go about doing it? This article will answer those questions and more, to get you on the road to becoming a foster home for dogs.

Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare your home. Just as you would prepare for a new baby, you must prepare for a new dog. Make sure there is nothing out that can be toxic to them, or any cords/wires that could pose a threat. Decide where you new foster will sleep. Do you have a dog bed and/or a dog crate?

    • 2

      Call local rescues. Call a couple different rescues to inquire about becoming a foster parent for their rescue. Many have different criteria for what they want. Some will require a fenced yard, others will not. Some will require someone to be home all the time, others will not. Some will also have an application that they will require you to complete. Others still, will want to do a home visit.

    • 3

      Meet with the rescue group. Once you have chosen a rescue group, meet with them to explain what you would like to get out of this and how you can help them. Be honest with them. If you are unable to handle a 100lb dog, tell them. They will help make a good match for you with a foster dog. Make sure they know of any and all other pets you have as well. Find out if they provide food and vet care while the dog is with you.

    • 4

      Bring Fido home. Now you have your new foster, but the work has really just begun. The idea of fostering a dog is to help get them adjusted to family life and home life. Beginning training is also a plus to help them get adopted. Your foster will not be perfect, has he/she has had a rough time in life so far. While you must shower the new dog with love and attention, remember they are only a temporary addition to your home.

    • 5

      Let Fido go to his new home with love. If it is a difficult process for you to let them go, keep this in mind: Once one rescue has found a good home, that opens up a space for another one to be saved.