In consideration of International Homeless Animals Day on August 18, 2012 , I am going to use the F word.
Foster.
Wait! Don’t stop reading!
Because I know you are saying to yourself “There is NO WAY I could foster a dog. I’d get too attached and couldn’t give it back.”
Admittedly, there are “failed fosters” where the temporary family becomes so smitten with their foster dog that they end up adopting it.
Here is why you – yes, YOU – should give fostering a dog some consideration.
Its not as difficult to foster as you might think. In fact, here is a checklist to follow if you decide to take the selfless step and provide a homeless dog (or cat) with a great start to a new life.
FOSTERING CHECKLIST
____ Discuss your decision to foster with everyone living in your house to be sure that they are on board as well.
____ Contact a rescue organization** and tell them you would like to offer a foster home. If you have a preference as to the size, gender or age of the dog you would like to foster, let them know.
____ Be prepared to complete an application, provide references (usually your veterinarian) and undergo a home visit by the rescue group.
____ Check with the group for their policies on expenses such as food and veterinary care, and whether you will be expected to attend adoption clinics with your foster dog.
____ The first week with your foster dog should be as low-key as possible. Keep to your usual routine so the dog knows what to expect from day-to-day.
____ To prevent housebreaking accidents, keep your foster dog on a leash attached to an adult human for the first couple of days. Crate the dog if no one is available to supervise him.
____ Be patient. If you experience any behavioral issues, ask your rescue group for help. They often have a professional trainer they can refer you to for a consultation.
Your job as a foster family is to give your temporary houseguest a safe and loving home until his forever one is found. When that day comes, you’ll be sad to have him leave you but happy knowing you helped him become someone’s new best friend.