How to Take Care of Dogs for Deployed Soldiers

Deployed soldiers often leave behind those they love, including pets. Help the troops in a unique way by serving as a foster home for the dogs left behind. Caring for a deployed soldier's dog is a tremendous responsibility. It requires someone with the capacity, experience, time and knowledge to foster a dog for many months and perhaps up to two years. The duties and skills of a care provider for dogs include feeding, grooming, exercising, basic training, behavior identification, socialization and medical care.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog food
  • Dog treats
  • Dog food bowl
  • Container for water
  • Dog shampoo
  • Towels
  • Pet grooming brush or comb
  • Identification tags
  • Collar
  • Leash
  • Dog toys
  • Camera
  • Pen
  • Paper
  • Stamps
  • Computer
  • Web camera
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Instructions

  1. Basics of Dog Care

    • 1

      Before your soldier deploys make sure to get information regarding the dog's diet. Find out if there are any dietary restrictions or a regular feeding schedule that must be followed. Ask the soldier if there are any particular brands of dog food to give the dog and what are the dog's favorite treats. Inquire what amounts to provide the dog. Select a dog food bowl that is sized right for the dog. Always have a container filled with fresh water available every day.

    • 2

      Review a grooming plan with your soldier before he leaves. Ask how often to brush, bathe and clip the dog's nails. If bathing at home, be sure to have plenty of dog shampoo and towels available. Find out if the dog visits a regular grooming facility or what grooming tools such as brushes and comb are used to maintain the dog's coat.

    • 3

      Exercise is important for a dog's health. Inquire how often to walk your soldier's dog. Before going on a walk, make sure the dog is wearing an identification tag, collar and leash. Locate nearby dog parks and other areas for activity diversity. If the dog likes to fetch, be sure to have plenty of toys, flying discs and balls on hand.

    Advanced Dog Care

    • 4

      Sometimes a soldier is deployed before a puppy's basic training is completed. Be prepared to puppy-proof your home and to provide additional training. For older dogs, establish limits. Gently let the dog know house rules such as no jumping on the furniture or eating from the table. A little discipline goes a long way.

    • 5

      Your soldier's dog is in a strange place surrounded by strange people. This may result in behavior issues such as separation anxiety. Keep an eye out for distress symptoms such as chewing on inappropriate objects, constant peeing and excessive barking. Give your soldier's dog a place to call his own, such as a dog bed or sleeping blanket. This will help relieve stress and give the dog a feeling of safety.

    • 6

      Find out if the dog has any aggressive tendencies, especially towards children, adults or other dogs. Alternatively, inquire if the dog has fears or phobias of certain people, places, or things. Knowing the level of your foster dog's social skills and fears helps to create a calm environment and keep everyone safe.

    • 7

      Be sure to get the name and phone number of the dog's veterinarian before the soldier is deployed. In addition, ask about any special needs, medical issues or medicines and how to properly administer them. Familiarize yourself with the signs of a sick dog such as not eating, lethargy, diarrhea, coughing or vomiting.

    • 8

      Keep in touch with your dog's soldier by writing letters and sending pictures via mail or email. Write down your soldier's contact information and put it in a safe place. If available in your soldier's deployment area, set up a webcam allowing your soldier to have a real-time visit with his dog. A happy dog can be an effective morale booster.