How To Become A Pet Foster Parent

Have you ever looked deep into a shelter dog’s eyes? It just tugs at your heartstrings. You want to jump in and help. But maybe adopting isn’t on the cards right now.

That is exactly where you can step in! When you foster a dog, you become a hero for two lives. You save the pooch in your care. Plus, you free up a kennel for another animal in need. It is the perfect bridge between a rough past and a bright, loving future.

Ready to be a hero? We are going to walk you through finding the right rescue squad, prepping your home, and handling the training basics.

Let’s get this tail-wagging adventure started!

Where To Look to Foster a Dog

Finding the right crew is your first mission. Not all shelters run the same show. You need a team that has your back. This ensures a safe, happy experience for you and the pup. To help you navigate the search, let’s break down the best places to look, from busy city shelters to specialized breed rescues.

Photo by Jimmy Chan

1. Start With Local Municipal Shelters

Your city likely has a local shelter. These spots are often bursting at the seams. They usually have the biggest need for pet foster care. You can connect with them by jumping into these steps:

• Check their official government website.
• Look for a “Volunteer” or “Foster” tab.
• Visit the facility in person to ask questions.

Municipal shelters often have short waiting periods. You could be helping a dog very quickly!

2. Private Rescue Organizations

Photo by Helena Lopes

These are often run by passionate citizens and funded by love (and donations). Many don’t have a building. They rely 100% on foster homes. You can track these groups down by trying these methods:

• Search for “dog rescue near me” on Google.
• Read reviews from other volunteers.
• Check their social media presence.

3. Breed-Specific Rescues

Obsessed with Golden Retrievers? Or maybe Pugs are your jam? There are rescues dedicated just to them. Consider these points if you have a specific breed in your heart:

• This is great if you know a breed well.
• It helps if you have specific experience.
• Search for national clubs for that breed.

Photo by Mia X

4. Using Online Platforms

Websites like Petfinder often list rescue partners. You can search for organizations in your zip code. They often have profiles listing their needs.

How To Train a Foster Dog

Bringing a new dog home is a thrill! But it can also be a bit of a rollercoaster. The dog doesn’t know you yet. They don’t know the house rules.

Your goal isn’t to train a police dog. Your goal is to help them become adoptable. You want to show them the ropes of living in a home. To help you navigate this journey, let’s explore the key phases of training, from the adjustment timeline to mastering manners.

Photo by Cynthia Vh

1. The “Rule of Three”

This is the golden rule in “how to foster a dog”. It breaks down the adjustment phases. You can expect the timeline to look a little something like this:

• 3 Days: The dog is overwhelmed. They may be scared or not eat. They need quiet time.
• 3 Weeks: They start to settle in. Their personality shows up. This is when behavior issues might appear.
• 3 Months: They feel at home. They trust you. They know the routine.

2. Start With Decompression

Photo by Burst

Don’t throw a welcome party on day one. Give the dog some breathing room. You can help them settle in by following these cozy tips:

• Set up a quiet area or crate.
• Keep the house calm.
• Limit guests for the first week.
• Let them come to you for affection.

3. Establish a Solid Routine

Dogs love knowing what comes next. It makes them feel secure. Create a consistent schedule that includes the following:

• Feed them at the same times daily.
• Go for walks on a schedule.
• Have a set bedtime.

A routine helps with potty training too. It teaches the dog to hold it until the scheduled time.

4. Focus on Basic Manners

You want the dog to be the best roommate ever. Focus on these simple skills to help them adjust:

• Potty Training: Reward them heavily for going outside. Never punish accidents inside. Just clean it up and move on.
• Crate Training: Make the crate a happy place. Feed them meals inside it. Never use it for punishment.
• Leash Walking: Teach them to walk without pulling. This makes them very attractive to adopters.
• Four on the Floor: Teach them not to jump on people. Ignore them when they jump. Praise them when all feet are on the ground.

Photo by Ivan Babydov

5. Socialization is Key

Socialization doesn’t mean meeting 50 dogs at once. It means seeing the world calmly. You can socialize them safely with these activities:

• Take them to quiet parks.
• Let them watch people from a distance.
• Reward them for looking at you when distracted.

6. Handling Behavioral Issues

Some foster dogs have baggage. They might be reactive or anxious. Try managing these challenges with these positive techniques:

• Use Positive Reinforcement: Use treats and praise. Do not use fear or pain.
• Be Patient: Change takes time.
• Communicate with the Rescue: If a problem is big, tell the rescue. They might have a trainer who can help.

7. Document Their Progress

You are the dog’s PR manager. Take good photos. Write down cute things they do. Make sure to note details like these for their bio:

• Does the dog love belly rubs?
• Do they know how to “sit”?
• Are they good with kids?

Share this info with the rescue. It helps write a great adoption bio.

Photo by Blue Bird

Adopting a Foster Dog

Sometimes, you just fall head over heels. You planned to foster a pet, but you simply can’t let go.

This is affectionately called a “Foster Fail.” Don’t panic. It is a happy kind of failure! Many amazing adoption stories start exactly this way.

Photo by Brett Sayles

Signs You Should Adopt

How do you know if this pooch is a keeper? Look for these signs that this dog is meant for your pack:

• The bond is unique. You feel a deep connection, unlike other fosters.
• They fit your lifestyle. The dog matches your energy and schedule perfectly.
• The family agrees. Everyone in the house wants the dog to stay.
• You can’t imagine them leaving. The thought of them leaving hurts too much.

The Process of Adopting Your Foster

If you decide to keep the dog, tell the rescue immediately. Follow these standard steps to finalize the adoption:

1. Notify the Coordinator: Let them know before they find another adopter.
2. Complete the Paperwork: You will sign an adoption contract.
3. Pay the Fee: Even fosters usually pay the adoption fee. This money helps the rescue save the next dog.

Things to Consider

Before you finalize it, think clearly. Ask yourself these hard questions before signing the papers:

• Will this stop you from fostering? If you fill your house, you might not be able to foster again.
• Can you afford it? You will now pay for all food and vet bills.
• Is it emotional or practical? Make sure it is a logical decision, not just guilt.

If you decide to adopt, congratulations! If you decide to let them go to another family, be proud. You saved a life. You prepared them for their forever home. That is the ultimate goal of pet foster care.

Photo by Yaroslav Shuraev

FAQ

1. How long do you foster a pet?

It varies big time! You might have a house guest for a quick weekend or a buddy for a few months, depending on whether they’re healing up or just waiting for a home.

2. Can I foster a dog if I have a cat?

For sure! Just double-check the dog is cat-friendly and take introductions super slow. Never leave them unsupervised until you know they’re cool with each other.

3. How much does it cost to foster a dog?

It’s usually totally free since the rescue handles the big vet bills! You’ll mostly just be chipping in for yummy treats or gas for a vet run.

4. How much does it cost to foster a cat?

Barely anything! The shelter tackles the medical side, so you’re likely just grabbing litter, food, and maybe a cardboard scratcher to save your sofa.

Sarah Dickerson DIY & Dog Lifestyle Writer

Sarah is a designer, photographer, pet lifestyle expert, health & animal advocate, wife, and devoted dog mom (humble servant) to her loving Shih Tzu, Coco Bean.

Since joining the Pretty Fluffy team in 2012, Sarah writes feature articles on dog treat recipes, dog DIYs, dog lifestyle tips and designed the “52 Weeks of Treats,” and “Frozen” eBooks, authored by Pretty Fluffy founder Serena Faber Nelson.