If you’ve never fostered a dog before, you’re probably wondering how to prepare for a foster dog. The process can seem overwhelming at first, but if you’re properly prepared, your first foster dog experience should go smoothly. We’ve compiled a list of tips for how to prepare to foster a dog, along with advice for the first few weeks of fostering. Hopefully, these tips can help set you up for success when caring for a dog in need.
Ready to foster a dog? There are lots of critical dogs in Memphis that desperately need foster homes. Taking one of these dogs into your care would save a life.
How to Prepare for a Foster Dog: Steps to Take
Before you foster your first dog, keep the following things in mind. The better prepared you are, the smoother the transition will be for you and the dog.
Find out as much information as you can
Sometimes the shelter will know specific information about the dog’s behavior and energy levels. Knowing details can help you better prepare for the dog’s care, so don’t be afraid to ask questions if you have any.
If you have pets, make sure you find a dog they’ll get along with
Fostering when you have pets is tricky, but not impossible. You know your pets’ temperaments best, so choose a foster dog you think they’ll be friendly toward. The shelter may be able to tell you if the dog has lived with other pets before.
Have a way to separate your foster dog
Having a crate, playpen, and/or gate is a great way to keep your foster dog separated from existing pets and away from rooms you don’t want them in. Even if you don’t think you’ll need to use those tools, it’s good to have them just in case.
Save the number of the closest vet and emergency vet
In most cases, you can contact the shelter for medical concerns, but in an emergency, especially in the middle of the night, you might not be able to get a hold of someone. With a vet’s number in your phone, you can quickly get in contact with someone who can help.
Make note of the items you need
Shelters will typically provide the essentials, but if you already have supplies for a foster dog, such as an extra crate, bowls, and leash, that could be beneficial for the shelter in case they’re low on donated items. If you’re unsure what the shelter provides, ask them before you pick up your foster dog.
Set up a safe space for your foster
Foster dogs need time to decompress as they transition to their foster home. Create a dedicated space for your foster dog to relax, including an open dog crate and bed in a quiet room.
Tips for the First Few Weeks of Fostering
The first few weeks of fostering are a big transition period for your foster dog. Even if you’ve thoroughly prepared for fostering, there will likely be new challenges and obstacles as you get to know the dog. To keep fostering stress-free for everyone involved, keep the following tips in mind.
If you have pets, do a gradual introduction
Start by having your pets meet the foster dog through a closed door or at a neutral place like the park. That way, they can get used to each other before meeting face-to-face in your dog’s “territory.”
Having two people around makes introductions easier
When introducing a foster dog to your dog, it’s best to have someone else to help you. That way, one person can have control of each dog in case something goes wrong.
Never leave your pets unattended with foster pets
Until you get to know your foster dog well, don’t leave them alone with your pets. It’s for the safety of everyone involved.
Give the dog as much space as they need
Many rescue dogs are scared in new environments because of tragic pasts, so they need time to decompress. If your foster dog likes to just hide in their crate, let them. Don’t force them to be close to you or your pets if they’re not ready. Be patient and they will warm up to you at their own pace.
Give them their own supplies
Make sure your foster dog has separate bowls, toys, and beds from your dog to help them feel more comfortable. Feed your dog and the foster dog in separate rooms if possible.
Praise positive interactions
When your dog and your foster dog have positive reactions to each other, praise them and give them a treat.
Earn their trust with treats
Some dogs are more food-motivated than others, but they all have some type of food they prefer. Handing them treats can be a great way to gain their trust because they’ll associate you with something they love. If traditional dog treats don’t interest your foster dog, try high-value treats like cheese, peanut butter, or hot dogs.
Use treats to get them used to new things
If your foster dog is afraid or uncertain around “normal” things like leashes or cars, you can use their favorite treats to help them warm up to those too. For example, putting a leash on the dog for short periods and rewarding them in the process can help them learn that it’s not so scary.
Give them mental and physical exercise
Taking your foster dogs for regular walks and offering them puzzle toys (toys you can hide treats inside) can reduce boredom and keep them healthy. These activities can also help them learn to trust you.
Socialize your foster dog
Once your foster dog gets more comfortable around you, introduce them to new people, pets, and environments to improve their socialization. Start small by having a trusted friend over and then build up to bigger events, such as walking at a busy park.
Pay close attention to body language
If your foster dog shows signs of stress around people and pets, remove them from the situation if possible before their behaviors escalate. Early signs of stress include stiff posture, avoiding eye contact, licking lips, stiff tail, and ears back.
Start Preparing to Foster a Dog
Fostering dogs is a great experience. It can save dogs’ lives and give you the opportunity to care for a dog without a long-term commitment. However, anyone that’s interested in fostering should make sure they know how to prepare for a foster dog to ensure their first time fostering goes smoothly. There’s a lot to consider when fostering for the first time, but it’s well worth it to help a dog in need.
Do you live near Memphis? If so, you should consider fostering one of the dogs at risk of euthanasia. Even fostering once can save a life, so please consider giving it a try.