Are You Ready To Foster A Dog? Things To Consider

• 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?

• 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.

• 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. 

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