Foster homes are the vital link in the chain
Fostering is a vital component of any dog rescue organization. When kennels are full, some pups are recovering from surgery or illness, or others simply won’t thrive in the kennel environment, that’s when volunteers who open up their homes and hearts give these dogs the second—or sometimes third—chance they deserve. Quality time, quiet time, play time, training, socialization—you name it … foster homes provide it.
German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County is always looking for helping hands in the way of foster homes. Rescues typically provide veterinary care, food and any required medications, so there are no out-of-pocket expenses to incur, and foster parents are paid in kisses, leans and cuddles by dogs who are grateful for the personalized love and care.
Fostering is fun!
You and your foster dog can exercise, bond and play together. You’ll never feel lonely or come home to an empty house with a foster dog. If you love dogs and have the time, energy and space to invite just one more into your home, you will experience a new level of fulfillment.
Teach fosters manners and social skills—and help adopters see potential pets at their best.
Dogs who spend all of their time in a kennel may be anxious or excited to impress a potential adopter. But those who have had the benefit of quality time in a foster home learn basic skills, as well as important manners that can help find their forever homes sooner
Some dogs that have had illness or surgery or are seniors may need more TLC and calm and quiet that only a home can offer.
A noisy, bustling kennel is not the best environment for dogs who have just experienced surgery or are recovering from illness. With the help of the rescue organization’s veterinary team and the support of the rescue group, you can help ensure a vulnerable pup has the best chance for a quick recovery.
You’re helping an overstretched or overwhelmed rescue group by providing important information about a foster dog.
Rescues are busy, often overcrowded places that want to save each and every dog, but sometimes there’s just no room at the inn. Plus, as a foster parent, you’ll get to know your foster dog and share its personality traits and quirks with rescue volunteers, which can help immensely at adoption events.
You’re saving multiple lives.
Fostering a dog means a spot opens up at a shelter for another homeless dog, giving him a second chance, too, at finding love and security.
You might be a failure—and in this case, that’s a good thing!
If you fell deeply in love with your foster dog and couldn’t bear the thought of letting her go, you certainly wouldn’t be the first. In this case, “failure” is a win—for all concerned. All kidding aside, if you currently don’t share your home with a dog, fostering might help you decide if the time is right for you to adopt.
Fostering is every bit as noble as permanently adopting a dog. You’re lightening the burden on a devoted but often overwhelmed rescue organization, you’re potentially saving more than one furry life, and you’ll be paid in unconditional love by your foster dog. Reach out to your local rescue organization or contact German Shepherd Rescue of OC (complete GSROC’s online foster application to learn more) to find out more about its foster dog program. You’ll be glad you did—and so will one lucky dog.