- 1). Prepare your family for fostering a dog. It is important that children in the household understand that fostering a dog is a temporary situation. This helps to ensure they do not become attached to the animal if it is placed in a permanent home. Teach any young children to be cautious around and careful with new dogs; supervise their interactions at all times.
- 2). Prepare your home. If you have other pets, create a separate space for the foster dog so it is not overwhelmed with new people, animals and house. Once you have made the foster dog feel at home in your house, slowly introduce it to other pets, with supervision. Socializing the dog is an important element of providing foster care. Part of your responsibility as a foster home to a dogs is to prepare it to live with a family when it is permanently placed.
- 3). Contact local dog rescue organizations to apply for or put your name on the list of people able to provide foster care. The primary caretaker of the dog is usually required to be at least 18 years old and have reliable transportation to take the dog to and from any necessary veterinary visits and adoption events. Be clear about your limitations when you speak with a rescue organization. If you are only interested in fostering dogs less than a certain weight, for example, let them know ahead of time so they can provide you with a dog that meets this requirement.
- 4). Purchase supplies for the foster dog. Most rescues seeking foster care for their animals will provide food and veterinary care for the duration of the foster arrangement. If the organization you foster through does not, you will need to provide dog food. You also will need to provide food and water bowls, and toys and bones, if appropriate. Some special-needs dogs may require additional supplies, so ask rescue representatives if there is anything else you will need.
- 5). Bring home the foster dog with the intention of doing what it takes to help him find a permanent family. Basic training, housebreaking and socialization are keys to getting a dog adopted. While you enjoy the company of your new foster companion, remember that you have to lovingly let him go to a good home when the time comes. If you find your foster dog is a perfect fit with your family, ask the rescue if your family can permanently adopt it.
