Becoming a foster parent to a dog is a big deal, no doubt about that. Although it’s not a long-term commitment, your foster dog still depends on you for all their physical and emotional needs. However, it’s not as difficult as many people think it is– all you need is a few tips from people who have fostered dogs before.
Choosing your foster dog
Just as humans with different experiences have different needs, dogs also have unique needs. Dogs that have been abandoned, for instance, tend to have separation anxiety issues.
Courtesy: Freepik
It’s important to know how much care you can afford. This will help you choose a dog whose needs match what you can offer. That’s why you should talk to the shelter or NGO you’re fostering from. Doing that will help you know about the dog’s special needs and help you decide if it won’t be too much for you.
Don’t start with puppies
Puppies are adorable and fun to have around- but caring for them can be demanding. From destructive tendencies to potty training issues, there are many things to work out with foster puppies that might discourage you from fostering.
Courtesy: Freepik
Furthermore, puppies are preferred adoption candidates to adult dogs. So, while fostering an adult dog is less tasking, it’s also helpful because adult dogs often have a hard time getting fostered. You could foster a puppy after you’ve garnered some fostering experience.
Prepare for the first rough nights
Your foster dog might be scared or confused when placed in their crate bedroom for the first time. This explains why they tend to whine, cry, or bark on the first night. What is the best thing to do when this happens?
Courtesy: Freepik
Although it may sound counterintuitive, you should ignore the dog’s whining, even if it disturbs your sleep for a few days. The reason is simple: it helps your foster understand and gradually get used to the routine.
Outdoor space is required
Many common activities, like walking around the street or visiting the park, might not be suitable for your foster dog. This is because most foster dogs don’t get fully vaccinated, and going to public places isn’t a good idea.
Courtesy: Freepik
Stepping on public grounds may expose your foster dog to viruses like parvo. Having access to a gated outdoor space makes it easy for your foster dog to gradually get ready for the outside world.
You don’t have to do it alone
Even the most experienced foster parents might encounter issues they are clueless about, so it’s not a bad thing to have a question or two. The group you’re fostering through has all the information about your foster’s behavior and history.
Courtesy: Freepik
If you have questions or are unsure about something, you shouldn’t hesitate to contact the foster group or facility. Furthermore, the foster facility finds it easier to find a foster dog’s permanent home when they have more information about the dog.
