If you’re interested in fostering, please submit an application!
What is a foster parent?
A foster parent provides a safe and loving environment for a dog until adoption. In addition to affection, foster families provide basic care such as food, water and shelter. Hope Animal Rescue pays for all vetting and preventatives, and can provide crates, toys and food when needed. Foster parents are expected to teach basic house manners such as crate, leash and house training. It is helpful if foster families can transport adoptable dogs to events or vet visits, but is not required.
Foster
We can only rescue as many animals as we have room for. Not only do foster families maximize the number of dogs we can save, they help care for animals that would unlikely survive in a shelter environment: orphaned puppies with compromised immune systems, dogs recovering from illness or medical treatments, or pets needing one-on-one behavior rehabilitation. Many shelter dogs would never make it to the adoption floor due to fear or anxiety, but once in a foster home, they feel safe and blossom in their new environment.
Who should foster?
- Someone who isn’t in a position to adopt a pet right now, but has the time to care for one.
- A person who isn’t sure how a dog would get along with their current pet(s).
- Someone who never had the chance to have a pet but would really like to experience one.
- A family who has some room in their home to welcome a rescue dog.
How long will I foster?
We generally expect foster parents to care for a dog until adoption, which can take anywhere from 2 weeks to several months. Foster times may vary according to the breed and age of the dog. For example, puppies usually get adopted much quicker than adults. In some cases, the foster parent may decide to adopt the pet themselves. If a foster family runs into personal situations where they can not foster until the pet is adopted, we will search for another foster home to take the foster dog.
What if I need help?
We value our foster families and make every effort to be available to help, especially for the first time foster parent. That means an assigned foster coordinator will make sure you have a phone number and contact information to reach them, should you need their help along the way. We try to guide you along the way, so you shouldn’t ever feel alone.
What does it cost?
Hope Animal Rescue covers the cost of all veterinary care. Some families choose to provide food, puppy pads, toys and treats, but we will provide supplies when needed.
Can I adopt my foster dog?
Yes! Foster families who wish to adopt go through the same screening process as adoption applicants. However, we do require foster parents to foster two pets before adopting their foster dog. It is normal for the new foster to fall in love with theirs and want to adopt the first one. Always remember, letting them go to their forever family opens up space in your home for another life to be saved.