Tasha fostered Dharma and fell in love with her!

H.E.A.L, Inc. Urgently Needs Foster Homes

Common Questions and Answers about Fostering

What Will I Need To Do as a Foster Parent?

Foster homes are responsible for the daily care of the foster dog, including feeding, exercising, socializing, grooming, reinforcing basic obedience commands, observing and evaluating general behavior and temperament, and of course providing love and security to a special dog at an often difficult time in his or her life.

How Long Does a Dog Stay in Foster Care?

The foster stay varies with each dog. Dogs with special needs may need to stay in foster care for a period of months. It really depends on the individual dog's situation.

Do I Have to be Home with the Dog All Day?

No. Many foster family members are employed outside the home and still provide a quality environment for the dog. We do require that any time you are unable to directly supervise the foster dog, he must be confined to a small, secure area, preferably a training crate. This results in a safe secure place for the dog and keeps concern for the foster family's safety and home in the forefront.

Do I Need a Fenced Yard?

A fenced yard is preferred. Your dogs must NEVER be allowed to run free. If your yard is surrounded by a secure fence, the dog may be exercised there off leash. Outside the yard the dog must be on leash at ALL times.

May I Choose Which Dogs I Foster?

The application allows you to set limits on the kinds of dogs you foster. You may always decline a dog, and if your foster dog proves too much for you to handle he can be placed elsewhere.

How Much Does it Cost?

Lack of funds shouldn't prevent you from fostering, but you will have some expenses: a good quality dog food, telephone calls and any toys you choose to provide. Necessary veterinary care is provided by authorized veterinarians and paid for by H.E.A.L, Inc. Medications including monthly heartworm preventative are provided as well.

Will I Become Attached to My Foster Dog?

Yes, of course. But, when you meet the new family who's ready to provide a permanent loving home you will feel more than satisfied to see him move on to his new and better life.

What if I Want to Adopt the Dog I am Fostering?

If you decide to be a foster home, it should be with the understanding that you are working toward helping a deserving dog to a final home. If you think you might like to adopt a dog, we require that a completed H.E.A.L, Inc. Adoption Application be on file.     

I'd Like to Foster. What do I do Next?

If you are interested in fostering, please fill out a foster application.

We look forward to receiving your application. Thank you very much for your interest in H.E.A.L, Inc.   

Why is Fostering so Important?

The number of foster homes dictates how many dogs we can save. It's as simple as that!! Won't you consider fostering a dog today!

What Happens if I Have Questions or Problems with a Foster Dog???

All foster homes receive a Foster Home Manual, which provides guidance on handling all aspects of fostering. Volunteers are also available for telephone consultation on problems not covered in the manual. Being a foster home is extremely rewarding. However, you should keep in mind that most, but not all rescue dogs are housebroken, some may be ill, or may have had little socialization or obedience training. We find that when given a chance these dogs these dogs not only improve, they flourish in their foster care.   

If you are interested in fostering an animal in our rescue program, please let us know by filling out our online Foster Caregiver Application.
 
Thank you for supporting H.E.A.L, Inc. If you are unable to foster a companion animal there are numerous other ways you can contribute to our mission. Please visit our Donate or Subscribe page or our Wish List page to learn more opporitunities to participate in "HEALing" animals needs.