Saving Senior Dogs: Why NOT? Fostering May Be a Great Option For You!
Today we continue our four-part series about adopting senior pups. The series is called “Why NOT?” because we know some have concerns about adopting a seriously senior dog. The concerns often include:
- Emotional toll
- Time and effort
- Cost
At House with a Heart, we know the rewards of adopting a senior dog will far outweigh the challenges. But we have a suggestion for those who want to help but can’t commit long term: FOSTERING!
What does fostering a dog involve?
When you foster, you agree to take a homeless dog into your home and give him or her love, care and attention, either for a predetermined period of time or until the dog is adopted.
Why do adoption groups need foster homes?
There are many reasons a dog might need foster care. Some of the most common include:
- A rescue group doesn’t have a physical shelter and depends on foster homes to care for dogs until suitable homes are found.
- A dog is recovering from surgery, illness or injury and needs a safe place to recuperate.
- A dog is showing signs of stress such as pacing or hiding in the shelter.
- A dog has not lived in a home before or has not had much contact with people and needs to be socialized.
- The shelter is running out of room for adoptable dogs.
Why should I foster a dog?
Fostering a dog is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have (other than adopting, of course!). By taking an animal in need temporarily into your home you’re:
- Freeing up a spot so the shelter or rescue can take in another dog.
- Giving your foster dog the time he or she needs to be ready for adoption.
- Helping the shelter or rescue learn more about the dog so he or she can end up in the best home possible.
- Socializing the dog to a home environment and possibly getting him or her used to being around other pets and different types of people.
How do I sign up to foster a dog?
Find a rescue group or animal shelter near you and contact them. They’ll likely have you fill out a foster application and, if you are approved, they will work with you to figure out the right foster dog for your household.
Resources:
Find a rescue group or animal shelter near you:
https://www.petfinder.com/animal-shelters-and-rescues/search/
How to Foster a Dog 101: Everything You Need to Know
https://www.rover.com/blog/dog-fostering-101/