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 foster pup is approximately 2 weeks, but that can vary depending on factors like age, breed, size, and how quickly a suitable adopter is found. Some foster dogs may be adopted before the 2-week mark, while others may need a longer stay. Because placements are based on what is best for each pup, fosters should be prepared for adoption timing to vary.
If you have a time constraint (for example, you can only foster for 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 if needed.
+ Can I adopt my foster dog?
We love when our fosters find a match with their foster dog! If you think there is any possibility you may want to adopt your foster pup (even on the first day) please let our team know as soon as possible so we can guide you through the next steps. All dogs are considered adoptable unless noted otherwise. Fosters must fill out an adoption application and complete the same formal approval process as any adopter. Submitting an application early is important, as dogs remain available for adoption unless otherwise arranged with our team. If another approved applicant begins the adoption process first, they will be given priority and we must honor any meet and greets.
Our goal is always to make the best match for both the dog and adopter, and we would hate for you to miss the opportunity to adopt a pup you have fallen in love with!
+ What supplies do you provide?
Wags and Walks will provide you with all essential supplies needed to foster your dog. Supplies may vary depending on the dog’s age, size, and individual needs, as well as current availability, but may include items such as a crate or kennel, dog bed, blankets or towels, food and treats, bowls, collar and leash, chew toys, poop bags, and potty pads for young puppies.
Crates are especially helpful for keeping dogs safe and helping with house-training while you are away. If your foster pup has access to bones or chew items, please always supervise them to help avoid choking hazards.
Our team is always here to answer any questions and make sure you have what you need to set your foster pup up for success!
+ 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 are their only hope. We simply cannot rescue special needs dogs without foster homes.
The requirements for fostering a dog with extra behavior or medical needs can include anything from working with our trainers to help your pup on leash, to administering medications and/or bringing them to veterinary appointments. Wags and Walks covers all approved medical care and training support related to your foster dog, so fosters are not responsible for those costs.
You will always have the full support of our medical team, trainers, and of course our foster team!
