Become A Foster
Fostering is a rewarding and hands-on way to help us rescue dogs in need. As a foster, you’ll provide a safe and loving home for a pup until they find their forever home.
Our Foster Program
When you foster, you help save two lives: the dog you take home & the dog entering that open kennel. It’s one of the most impactful & rewarding ways to get involved. The benefits of fostering are endless, but according to our current fosters, the best part is knowing that you played a crucial role in saving a life!
All supplies are provided, meaning it’s 100% free
Increase a dog’s chance of getting adopted
Flexible and temporary (for those who aren’t ready to adopt!)
FAQs
+ How long is the foster commitment?
The average length of stay for a Wags pup is approximately 2 weeks, but that can vary depending on factors like age, breed, size, etc. If you have a time constraint (for example, you can only foster for the 2 weeks), please let us know as far in advance as possible so that we can accommodate and make sure we line up another foster home for the pup.
+ Can I adopt my foster dog?
We love when our fosters find a match with their foster dog. We require fosters to fill out our online adoption application and go through the formal process.
+ What supplies do you provide?
Wags and Walks will provide you with the following supplies: Crate or kennel (for keeping dogs safe and out of trouble while you’re away and to help with house-training), dog bed, blankets, or towels for a comfortable place to sleep. Food and treats, bowls, collar and leash, chew toys, appropriate to the size and age of your dog or puppy. Please be sure you are always supervising your foster dog if they have access to a bone. We want to avoid choking hazards! Poop bags and potty training pads for young puppies The truth is, we just don’t know! It’s impossible to test this out in a shelter environment, so it’s important to be comfortable with a bit of uncertainty before bringing your foster pup home. Remember, our team will guide you through any questions and share appropriate resources you might need.
+ Can I foster if I work a full-time job?
Absolutely! As long as you are committed to making sure your foster pup gets a break throughout the work day to get some exercise and food/water, we are happy to work with fosters who have a variety of lifestyles and careers.
+ Can I foster if I live in an apartment?
Yes! We will do our best to match you with a pup that we think may do well in an apartment setting. Please review your lease agreements prior to fostering your first foster dog to familiarize yourself with any pet policies and verify whether there are any breed restrictions.
+ I have a personal dog. Can I still foster?
Yes, you can still foster with a resident dog as long as your dog is up to date on vaccines and is spayed/neutered. You won’t be able to meet your foster dog in advance but Wags & Walks will always make a conscious effort to match you with a foster that we feel both you and your dog could do well with. Our team will help you take all necessary steps to ensure you and the dogs stay safe and comfortable
+ what does being a special needs foster entail?
By opening your home to a dog with extra behavior or medical needs, you are making a huge impact in their lives.These dogs tend to be overlooked in shelters so oftentimes we, as a rescue, are their only hope. We simply cannot rescue any special needs dogs without foster homes.
The requirements of fostering a dog with extra behavior or medical needs varies greatly from dog to dog. It can be anything from sessions with our trainers to help your pup on leash to administering meds and/or taking to vet appointments. You will always have the full support of our medical team, trainers and of course our foster team!
