Fostering a pet can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the specialized care it requires. Three local experts – Lauren Wilson, Jenni Baynham, and Christina Florencio – share their advice on what to expect and how to prepare for fostering a pet.

“Fostering is a serious commitment, and it’s not just about having a new cuddle buddy,” says Jenni Baynham, founder of Fur Bae Dog Rescue. “You need to want to help a pet that is likely struggling, not to have the pet fill a hole in your life.”

1. Ask Yourself the Hard Questions

Before bringing a foster pet into your home, consider the following:

• What behaviour or medical issues are you open to working with?
• Are you prepared for the added responsibilities of fostering?
• Do you have a stable and suitable home environment?

“Ask yourself what behaviour or medical issues you are open to working with,” advises Lauren Wilson, volunteer for Straight Outta Rescue Society. Wilson stresses that fostering is a serious commitment and that you should be prepared to provide the necessary care.

2. Watch for Fostering Red Flags

When researching a fostering organization, pay attention to the following:

1. Do they provide thorough home visits and phone screenings?
2. Do they have a clear adoption process and support system in place?
3. Are their facilities and resources adequate?

“Often, how well an organization screens its adopters speaks a lot to their overarching programs and the support you will receive as a foster family,” says Wilson. Baynham agrees, stating that a reputable rescue should not drop a pet off without talking to you on the phone or doing a home visit. Pet-Proof Your Home

Before bringing a foster pet into your home, ensure you have taken the following precautions:

• Remove toxic plants and screen windows.
• Contain yard access.
• Be realistic about the messier aspects of pet ownership.

advises Wilson. Baynham adds that it’s essential to be aware of the potential mess and chaos that comes with having a pet. Get Access to Accessories

Reputable rescues will provide the basics, but you may need to supplement with:

• Food and litter box.
• Leash, crate, and other essential items.
• Toys and treats.

“There are a lot of generous pet owners who are willing to lend a hand,” says Florencio. Buy Nothing Facebook groups can be a great resource for extra toys and supplies.

5. Do Your Homework

Before bringing a foster pet into your home, take the time to:

1. Watch pet-training videos and follow pet trainers on social media.
2. Research local resources and support systems.
3. Prepare yourself mentally and emotionally.

“If you’re able to do prep work beforehand, it will feel less overwhelming,” says Florencio. By taking the time to prepare, you’ll be better equipped to care for your foster pet.

6. Allow for Decompression Time

When introducing a foster pet to your home, remember to:

• Keep their world small and manageable.
• Avoid stressful situations and environments.
• Allow for decompression time.

“We recommended for the first three weeks that the dog is not put in any situation that could stress them out,” advises Baynham. This means no hikes or dog parks – it’s essential to build trust in those first few weeks.

7. Keep Visitors to a Minimum

When introducing a foster pet to your home, prioritize:

• Time for your foster pet to settle in.
• Minimize visitors and stressors.
• Build trust and stability.

“While friends and family (and furry friends) may be excited to share in the journey, prioritize time for your rescue to settle in with your household before any further big introductions,” says Wilson. So, tell Mom she has to be patient to meet her new “grand-dog.”

8. Treat Your Pet

When introducing treats to your foster pet’s diet, remember to:

• Use high-quality treats.
• Train with positive reinforcement.
• Be patient and consistent.

“High-quality treats are worth the investment when it comes to training (or even just getting your shy foster to come out of its crate),” says Florencio. Baynham notes that roast chicken is a winner for even super fearful dogs.

9. Know It’s OK to Cry

When it’s time to say goodbye to your foster pet, remember that:

• It’s okay to feel emotional.
• A stable mindset is key.
• Your gift to your foster pet is providing them with love and stability.

“A stable mindset of knowing your foster dog will go to a better home is key,” says Florencio. By providing a stable and loving environment, you’ll be giving your foster pet the best chance at finding their forever home.

The 3-3-3 Rule

Our experts suggest keeping this prevalent fostering theory in mind:

“It will take three days for a pet to start feeling calm and to get over the initial fear of a new environment,” says Wilson. This theory can help you understand the fostering process and plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Fostering a pet can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the specialized care it requires. By following the advice of local experts and being prepared, you can provide a stable and loving environment for your foster pet. Remember, fostering is a serious commitment, and it’s not just about having a new cuddle buddy – it’s about giving a pet a second chance at a happy life.