Fostering 101

A quick scroll through social media and you will likely see tons of pets in need of foster homes. Fostering animals is critically important to saving lives. And while many people want to help, we understand there is a lot of information to digest. Here we answer some fostering FAQs and highlight ways you can help.

What Fostering Means

Fostering a pet means taking them into your home for a limited period of time before they find their forever home. Survivor Tails is a foster-based rescue which means that we do not have a shelter location. All of our animals are in foster homes before they are adopted out. That means we could not survive without appropriate foster parents for our pups — you literally help us save lives!

Fostering an animal can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the situation and the dog’s age, breed, temperament, and other criteria. Some pups take longer to adjust to their new surroundings, so patience is essential when fostering an animal. We currently foster in Massachusetts and Connecticut, and we adopt out to both of those states as well as New Hampshire.

Why Fostering is Important

Without foster homes, we would not be able to rescue dogs (and cats) from high-kill areas, particularly in the south. By providing a safe home to dogs and cats, you are the first stop on the path to a new life. Many of the animals we rescue have been through some tough times are unsure of what love and happiness feel like. By welcoming them into your home and family, you are offering them hope and kindness. Plus, most dogs do not thrive in a shelter environment; many animals open up much better in a home.

Fosters are the much-needed bridge to a forever family for our animals — and sometimes the first kind word and soft touch they ever experience.

What Is Expected of Me?

Once you welcome a foster pet into your home, you are expected to love, care for, and be patient with the new (temporary) addition to your family. You will need to walk and play with your dog, help them establish a routine for potty breaks, and help teach them the basics. Since many dogs come from uncertain situations, the specific needs are determined by the individual dog; for example, some dogs need more help learning commands while other might need a refresher in housebreaking. As mentioned above, being patient and caring are critical to helping your furry pal adjust.

You will also provide updates, feedback, and photos of your foster friend. The more information we have on a dog, the better job we can do finding him or her the best possible forever home. We want all of our dogs and their people to be happy, so keeping us up-to-date on behavior, training, and temperament is essential to our cause. We LOVE pictures and videos — and so do potential adopters!

Is Fostering Expensive?

Not at all. In fact, it is pretty much free! Survivor Tails covers all expenses except for food and toys. All animals arrive fully vetted and spayed/neutered if of age. If anything happens and your foster becomes ill or injured, we cover all veterinary costs. We also provide the foster pup’s ID tag, leash, martingale collar, harness, and a carabiner clip. We can also supply a crate if needed. Plus, we offer plenty of instructions and support to help your new buddy adjust to your home.

Why Should I Foster?

It’s no secret that dogs are the best! And, science has proven that people with pets are happier and live longer. Perhaps you can’t commit to adopting right now; fostering is an excellent way to get some furry love and help an animal in need. Plus, there is no better feeling than helping an animal in need!

Ready to Save a Life?

Great, here are some ways to proceed:

Questions? Feel free to reach out to foster@survivortails.org for more information. We have lots of info to share with potential fosters and adopters.

Ready to fill out a foster application? You can find one here!

Want to see some of the dogs (and cats) in need of a foster home? Visit our Facebook album! More of a cat person? Fear not! While we tend to need more homes for dogs, we love to help our feline friends as well!

Can’t foster, but still want to help? Please start by sharing this post and consider making a much-appreciated financial donation.

Also, check out our website check out our website and social media pages for more information!

 

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