Why Should I Foster?

Fostering greatly helps rescue organizations. Shelters have limited space, so fostering frees up space and enables the organization to accept more dogs. Some organizations don't have a physical shelter at all; in this case, the only way dogs can be accepted into the program is if there is a foster home available for them. Also, a number of dogs who experience discomfort or stress in a shelter environment will thrive in the calm of a foster home. 

 •·················•·················• 

By fostering a dog, you are boosting their chances of adoption. For some dogs, their unique personality shines through in a more relaxed home environment, helping families better understand how the dog will behave once they take him home. The skills and behaviors dogs acquire in foster homes, including basic leash, house, and/or command training, make them more appealing to potential adopters. You can also help in finding a forever family by promoting the dog, whether that be by taking him to the park or sharing pictures on social media: The more people who know about him, the bigger chance he has at someone wanting to adopt him. 

 •·················•·················• 

Becoming a foster parent can help you decide if you want a dog of your own. You may not yet be ready to adopt a dog yet, but fostering is an excellent opportunity to see how a dog will fit into your family and routine. You can get a sense for the responsibilities of dog ownership and the traits you're looking for in a pet. If you end up falling in love with your foster dog, good news! Foster parents are usually given priority if multiple people apply for adoption.

 •·················•·················• 

Shelter dogs may have gone through traumatizing experiences that make them reluctant to approach people. At first, the dog may be skittish and withdrawn, but as he learns that he is in a safe, loving home, he will begin to adjust. Watching a dog come out of his shell and begin to trust is a very rewarding experience for many foster parents.