Frequently Asked Questions
CAN I GET A FEW DAYS NOTICE BEFORE MY FOSTER COMES INTO CARE?
Alas in the world of dog rescue, a few days notice often doesn't happen! Rescues try their best to pre-arrange with foster parents before the dog comes into care, but often emergency situations arise and the dog comes in sooner than expected, or instead of two small dogs they will receive four puppies. CAN I PICK MY FOSTER DOG?
Many rescues will have a "dogs in need of foster" section of their website where you could look and offer to foster a specific dog, but more times than not you won't be able to pick the specific dog you would like. It comes down to which dogs need to get into care first. For example you may be asked to take a dog who needs urgent medical attention rather than one who is currently living in a safe environment. WHAT IF THE FOSTER DOG ISN'T RIGHT FOR OUR HOUSEHOLD OR WE CAN NO LONGER FOSTER?
Not all dogs are the right fit for each home and most rescues will find an alternate place for the foster to go. If the issues you are experiencing are ones you are willing to work through many rescues have a trainer on hand to answer questions and who can come work with you and your foster in your home. DO I NEED TO COVER VET EXPENSES AND FOOD?
Nope! All rescues cover the dog's basic care including vet visits and food. All you need to provide is a place for them to stay and be loved until they are adopted. Most rescue dogs come in pretty rough shape- be prepared to give a lot of TLC! |
TRANSPORTATION AND VACATIONS
One of the prerequisites of being a foster parent is that you will need to either have a car, or have access to someone who is able to drive. Your foster will need transportation to vet appointments and adoption events just like a child needs rides to school and soccer! As for vacations most rescue groups (including D.R.E.A.M.) require you to let a staff member know prior to the date so that proper arrangements can be made. Never just leave your foster dog with someone without letting the rescue know! HOW LONG ARE DOGS TYPICALLY IN FOSTER CARE BEFORE BEING ADOPTED?
There really isn’t a simple answer to this question. Fosters are available for adoption a minimum of one week after entering care. We do our best to ensure your foster gets the proper exposure needed to be adopted after that. The most important thing to remember is that you are saving a life by allowing your foster to live in your home for a little while. CAN I TAKE MY FOSTER FOR WALKS OR TO THE DOG PARK?
That all depends on the age and health of your foster! Puppies under 12 weeks that haven't had all three Parvo/Distemper shots should under no circumstances be taken for walks or to the dog park. If your foster is fully vaccinated and in good health, go to town! You may also want to avoid the dog park if your dog hasn't been altered and is nearing 6-8 months old. Do not take your foster if they are ill or flighty- you know your dog best! |