Foster Frequently Asked Questions

1. A completed application.
2. A home check.
3. A positive veterinary reference.
4. Verification that all past and present animals in the home are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and maintained on year-round heartworm prevention.

Additionally, current and past pets must:

• Receive care  from a traditional veterinarian (not solely from low-cost clinics, SPCA, or shot clinics) at least annually.
• Demonstrate a  history of excellent veterinary care.
• Be indoor-only pets with no unaccompanied access to the backyard.

To become a foster, please follow these steps:

1. Application Process:
   • Have approved application, home check, and Vet Check

1. Training and Orientation: Once approved, you might need to attend a training session or orientation. This can include information on how to care for the foster      dog, what to expect, and how to handle common issues.
2. Support and Resources: Saver of Souls Pet Rescue, provide support to their fosters. This can include supplies, veterinary care, and training resources. For      example, Saver of Souls Pet Rescue offers the first 30 days of support from PetCademy.
3. Welcoming a Foster Dog: Once you're approved and trained, you'll be matched with a dog that fits your home and lifestyle. Bring the dog home, give them time to adjust, and provide them with love and care.
4. Stay in Contact with the Rescue: Keep the rescue updated on the dog's progress, health, and behavior. If you encounter any issues, reach out to them for support.
5. Prepare for Adoption: As a foster, your goal is to prepare the dog for their forever home. Help with socializing, training, and providing a stable environment.
6. Repeat the Process: Once your foster dog is adopted, you can choose to foster another dog and continue the cycle.

If you’re interested in fostering, you can reach out to us to begin the process.

Also see question: Primary Responsibilities of a Foster Home

Fostering a dog for a rescue organization can be a rewarding experience with numerous perks, including:

1. Saving Lives: By providing a temporary home, you are directly saving a dog from being euthanized or living in poor conditions.
2. Companionship: Enjoy the company of a pet without the long-term commitment. This can be particularly beneficial for people who love animals but cannot have a permanent pet.
3. Flexibility: Fostering is often more flexible than adoption. You can choose the length of time you can commit to caring for the dog.
4. Support and Resources: Many rescues, like Saver of Souls Pet Rescue, provide support, including covering veterinary care, food, and other supplies. They also offer training support, like the first 30 days from PetCademy.
5. Community: Joining a network of fellow animal lovers and rescuers can provide a sense of community and support.
6. Experience: Gain valuable experience in dog care and training, which can be useful for future pet ownership or careers in animal care.
7. Making a Difference: Knowing that you are making a positive impact on an animal's life and contributing to a broader cause can be incredibly fulfilling.
8. Trial Run for Adoption: Fostering can serve as a trial run for adoption, allowing you to see if a particular dog is a good fit for your home before making a permanent decision.
9. Emotional Rewards: The joy and satisfaction of seeing a dog you have fostered find a loving forever home is immensely gratifying.

 1. Provide a Safe and Loving Environment: Offer a temporary, comfortable, and secure home where the dog can feel safe and loved. This includes providing a clean and comfortable living space.

2. Basic Care: Ensure the dog receives daily care, including feeding, grooming, and exercise. Maintain a consistent routine to help the dog adjust.

3. Health Monitoring: Monitor the dog’s health and behavior, noting any changes or concerns. Administer medications as prescribed and attend scheduled vet appointments.

4. Socialization:Help the dog adjust to a home environment by introducing them to new experiences, people, and other animals. This helps improve their behavior and prepares them for adoption.

5. Training and Behavior: Work on basic training commands and address any behavioral issues. Provide guidance and support to help the dog learn appropriate behaviors. All fosters receive the first 30 days of support from PetCademy, in addition to the support provided by the rescue.

6. Prepare for Adoption: Help the dog become “adoption-ready” by ensuring they are well-socialized, house-trained, and comfortable in a home setting. Provide information about the dog’s personality and needs to assist in finding the right match.

7. Communication:Regularly update the rescue organization on the dog’s progress, including any health or behavioral issues. Provide feedback and information that can aid in the adoption process.

8. Participate in Events: If possible, attend adoption events or meet-and-greet sessions to showcase the dog to potential adopters. This helps increase the dog’s chances of finding a forever home.

9. Adhere to Rescue Policies: Follow the guidelines and policies set by the rescue organization to ensure consistency and compliance with the rescue’s mission and standards.