Are You Ready To Foster A Dog? Things To Consider

Sure, we would all love to foster a dog, who wouldn't want to give a pup a better chance at adoption? But before you go ahead and make that leap if it's your first time, you need to ask yourself; Am I ready to foster a dog?

If you haven't already read the article 8 Reasons Why Fostering A Dog Will Enrich Your Life be sure to check it out. It will give you insight into the world of fostering and what it has to offer.

If you stumbled upon this post because you were searching for a fostering checklist, work through the questions below to aid you in your decision to Foster. It will help you to better prepare.

Fostering Checklist


Questions Regarding Home and Lifestyle

  • What type of household do you reside in? i.e., House, Condo, Townhome, Detached, Semi-Detached, Rental, etc...
  • Will your neighbors be affected by barking?
  • Do you have a fenced yard? If not, is there an accessible area for your dog to play and do their business?
  • Where will the dog sleep?
  • If renting, does your landlord allow pets? If in a condo/apartment, are pets allowed?
  • Do you or your roommates have any allergies?
  • What sized dog will your space be able to accommodate comfortably?
  • When you aren't at home, where will your dog stay? i.e., In a crate, gated area, free run of the house...
  • Are your family members or roommates okay with the decision to adopt? Are they willing to step up and help when needed?
  • If you currently have pets or other fosters residing in your home, how will they get along with a new foster? Have they been socialized? Do they have territorial issues? Are they friendly?

Questions Regarding The Type Of Dog You Foster

  • Based on your household, what size of dog are you able to take in?
  • Based on your lifestyle what type of breed can you foster? Energy level, age, high-needs, low maintenance, etc...
  • Do you have enough home time to teach, train, and raise a puppy?
  • Are you able to take the dog on 1-3 walks a day? This will depend on the size and breed of dog.
  • Are you able to train an untrained dog? House training, commands, behavior, etc...
  • Does the dog shed? Will this impact your decision on the breed?
  • Do you have time to properly care for a foster dog?
  • How long can You foster for? 
  • Are you able to handle any unforeseen situations? Such as the dog getting sick and needing veterinary care.

Questions To Ask The Shelter Or Local Rescue Group

  • Can I adopt my foster if I get attached?
  • Are medical costs and everyday necessities covered?
  • Does the dog have any special needs/medical concerns?
  • Is the dog updated on all vaccines? Spayed/Neutered?
  • Is the dog house trained?
  • How should I handle a medical emergency? Where do you recommend I go?
  • What kind of diet is the dog on? Kibble, Free-Dried Raw, Raw. And what are the feeding times?
  • Am I required to attend adoption events with the foster dog?
  • Does the dog have behavioral issues?
  • Is the dog socialized?
  • How would the dog react to other pets in the home?
  • Will you provide the essentials, or will I be reimbursed following purchase? Food, bed, leash, collar, etc...
  • What is the estimated time span of this foster?
  • Who is responsible for arranging adoption interviews? Will I need to attend?
  • Whom do I contact if I have any questions or issues?
  • If I leave town on business or for personal travel, where will my foster go?
  • What happens if I am no longer able to foster?

And certainly be sure to jot down any other questions you may have. You will have an opportunity to ask your questions during the interview process and then after. 

Supply List

You may have these items already in your home, but if not, they will be provided for you: 

  • Food
Raw Paws Grain-Free Beef Kibble Infused with Raw Freeze Dried Green Tripe, 8 lbs
  • Treats
Raw Paws Sweet Potato Training Treats for Dogs (Bundle Deal)
  • Bed
  • Crate
  • Harness
  • Collar
  • Leash
  • ID Tag
  • Blanket
  • Toy(s) Of Their
    Own
  • Clothing - - For a short
    haired, small breed dog


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