Resources for Foster Parents
Introducing your foster dog to your resident dog
Let your foster dog decompress after arriving at your house. They will need some time to get used to their surroundings prior to introductions.
Always keep introductions positive. Don’t force them if they’re not ready or interested.
Introduce them in a neutral area (like on a walk). Let them smell each other and interact in a controlled environment. Have both of them on a leash.
Don’t get discouraged if they don’t love each other right away. It takes time to build trust and friendship.
Until you are certain that they are comfortable around each other, always supervise their play and interactions.
Separate the dogs at dinner time. Some dogs may have had to scrounge for their food as strays or in overcrowded shelters. We don’t want to put them in a situation where they feel like they need to protect their food.
Crate feeding is a great way for your dog to associate the crate with positive and relaxing experiences.
Training your foster to enjoy crate time
Never use the crate as a form of punishment.
Crates are meant to be a safe place for your dog to relax.
By feeding them their meals or providing treats and toys while they’re in their crate, you will be able to create a positive experience and start on the right foot.
Diarrhea & upset stomachs—should you worry?
Your furry new friend has been on quite a journey. Sometimes their nerves – from traveling and being in a new environment – get the best of them. A couple teaspoons of plain yogurt (with live and active cultures) or canned pureed pumpkin (not raw, not the sugary, spicy pie filling) should relieve their tummy troubles. A bland diet the first couple days, like boiled white rice and chicken, will help soothe their digestive system as well.
My foster dog is coughing
As most of our dogs come from the south, their cough can be from the change of climate or because they just received their kennel cough vaccination. A teaspoon of raw honey once a day will help soothe their throat and their cough should disappear within a few days. If it doesn’t go away or if you notice that it sounds abnormal, please let us know.
My foster dog has WORMS! What do I do?
Don’t freak out. This is extremely common, especially in young puppies. If you notice worms in foster pup’s poo, it’s most likely from a recent de-wormer medication. This is not an emergency. However, you’ll want to make sure to wash any blankets or bedding that the dog may have been on.
Just shoot us an email and we will provide you with another dose of de-wormer to rid their system completely. If you notice that your foster has other symptoms along with the worms—such as diarrhea, lethargy, vomit— make sure to mention that too.
I really think it’s time to go to the vet—what should I do?
Veterinary appointments and treatment need to be approved by a board member. Please contact us prior to taking your foster dog to the vet. We are able to receive discounts at specific veterinary clinics, and we can help you decide where to go and what to do in these situations.
Struck by Cupid?
Some potential adopters are cropping up and the thought of giving up your foster dog is unbearable. You can’t imagine this dog being a part of any other family that isn’t yours, so you decide to take the plunge and adopt your foster—congratulations! We’re thrilled!
But please be mindful of our potential adoptive families, and let us know as soon as you make your decision. From there, all you need to do is fill out the adoption agreement and submit your adoption fee.