Foster a dog

Dogs in Distress (DID) uses a network of fosterers who offer short-term homes to the dogs that we rescue. We rely on our fosterers to provide a safe and caring environment for our dogs. Foster based care is particularly important and beneficial as our fosterers can provide great insight into the dogs personality and the kind of home he will be best suited to.

The rewards of dog fostering

DID fosterers come from every walk of life.  They have one thing in common; a great love of dogs and a commitment to helping them in the most practical way possible - by taking them into their homes on a short term basis. Fostering takes commitment in terms of time and effort.  Most foster dogs will need some basic training, they will need to be walked at least twice a day, they will need love, care and attention. Many DID fosterers have been fostering for us for many years. Where required fosterers are provided with food, bedding, dog toys etc. to cover the financial costs related to fostering. Fosterers experience first-hand the hugely positive impact that their efforts have on a dog's life.  

Application Process

• Potential fosterers should complete and return the Foster Application Form
• New fosterers are provided with a special pack containing useful tips and advice
• Our Foster Co-ordinator Kathy is available to advise or assist with fostering related issues should they arise

How it Works

• When fosterers are ready to take on a dog they inform the Foster Coordinator
• Fosterers may request a specific dog that they have seen in “Urgent Action Needed” on the DID forum
• Once in the foster home, the dog’s listing on the DID forum is moved from “Urgent Action Needed” to “In Foster Care”
• The dog settles into his temporary home. After a week to ten days the fosterer completes a Foster Dog CV and returns it to DID. The form provides details of the dog's temperament which will help DID find a suitable home for the dog.
• The fosterer should be prepared to provide basic training, including house-training, if required
• If possible, the fosterer should upload photos and updates on their dog, to his listing or "thread" on the DID forum. The more active the foster dog’s thread the more interest generated from potential adopters
• While in foster provisions are made by DID to have the dog spayed/neutered, vaccinated and micro-chipped. If any other veterinary care is required DID cover the cost
• The dog is now ready to go to his permanent home and his thread is moved to “Happy Endings” on the DID forum

A dog may spend up to three months in foster care, however the average time in foster is about five weeks. Offers of foster homes for shorter periods are also welcome. All veterinary costs are covered by DID and if food or equipment is requested by the fosterer this is provided.

Foster Coordinator:Kathy
fostering@dogsindistress.org
Forum name: kaydoyle