Fostering Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get to choose my foster dog?

For the most part, we allow our fosters to choose the dogs they foster. We may have certain pressing needs for a particular dog that we feel will be good fit in their house, but we always ask and never force anyone to take a dog they aren’t comfortable with!

What do I feed my foster? How can I get supplies for my foster?

Fosters are welcome to feed their foster dogs whichever food they prefer. We do receive food donations from local pet stores and will provide food if needed. If a foster purchases food, they can either request reimbursement from the rescue or write it off as a charitable donation. The same goes for any supplies fosters purchase for their dogs, within reason. We are happy to provide anything needed to ensure a foster dog is happy (leash, collar, training collar, harness, toys, bones, treats, etc).

How soon can I introduce my foster to my personal dogs and family/friends’ dogs?

We would prefer that fosters slowly transition a new dog into their home and recommend waiting at least a few days, if not longer for some breeds, to allow full nose-to-nose contact. For dogs outside the home, it is recommended that fosters wait 2-3 weeks, so that the foster dog can settle into a routine and start trusting their new parent before meeting outside dogs. We are happy to provide more guidance on slow transitions and how to crate-and-rotate dogs in the home.

Am I required to crate my foster dog?

We would prefer that fosters crate their dogs at all times when they are not able to be supervised. This reinforces boundaries, allows foster dogs to retreat from stressful situations, and keeps them safe from ingesting household items that can be toxic or deadly (and very expensive to resolve).

What if the dog needs regular vet care or a medical issue comes up?

If one of our dogs requires medical attention, our directors will consult one another and determine the best course of action. We primarily use five veterinary offices - London Animal Hospital, Moore Veterinary Hospital, The Animal Health Organization, My Vet Animal Hospital, and Concord Chapel Animal Hospital. We ask that our fosters use those vets, as we have relationships with them, trust their guidance, and have accounts set up to pay for the appointments. If transport is an issue, we have volunteers who can help with transport to/from medical appointments.

Can I take the dog to a dog park, daycare, or out in public places?

If the foster dog is good with other dogs, we allow our foster parents to socialize them as they wish; however, we do not cover the cost of daycare unless it is approved by our rescue directors in advance. We do encourage fosters to promote their dogs, whether on social media, in public, or elsewhere, to increase their exposure and help get them adopted.

What if I have a vacation planned? Can I take a break at any time?

With proper notice (and even sometimes without proper notice), we will find a place for our foster dogs to stay when our foster parents are on vacation. If another foster is unable to help, we have our prison program, as well as relationships with local vets and boarding facilities, that we can utilize in an emergency.

Many of our fosters take breaks throughout the year. We just ask that they communicate them as soon as possible, so we can plan accordingly.

How does the rescue provide support to fosters?

Our rescue volunteers and directors are available at all hours of the day. Our fosters typically have a point of contact that they primarily use for questions, and there is a private Facebook group where all volunteers can talk with each other. Among our volunteer base, there is usually someone who has run into a similar issue and can provide guidance! If not, we’ll call an expert!

What happens if a behavioral issue arises that I am not capable of handling?

If we cannot handle an issue with the resources we have available, we will put the dog on the list for the next available spot in prison. We can usually move things around within a week or so, and we just ask that fosters are patient with us while we work towards a solution.

However, if there is an issue with an aggressive dog who is endangering the foster family in any way, we will find a place for the dog to go immediately. The safety of our foster families and their personal pets is of the utmost importance to us, and we take that responsibility very seriously.

Do fosters choose adopters and how involved will I be in the adoption process?

Fosters are able to be as involved in the adoption process as they prefer. We do not have dedicated adoption coordinators, but do have many volunteers able and willing to help, if a foster is not comfortable handling the adoption process and/or needs help to schedule a meet and greet. We have a fantastic team and everyone pitches in to help!

Can I adopt my foster?

Yes, absolutely! Our foster parents always get priority with adopting their foster dogs!