Protection

A dog has one aim in life… to love you unconditionally

Creating Best In Show foster programs.

Target Issue:

Foster programs vary from rescue to rescue and there is limited information available regarding best practices for foster programs. Statistics indicate that the majority volunteer foster pet parents do not return after their first experience.  

Recruiting and supporting foster pet parents should be more robust than submitting a basic application. Prospective foster pet-parents should be screened, receive training, and be provided with resources and support. 

Our Solution:

Develop a toolkit for rescues which includes: 

  • Orientation videos for foster parents

  • Application and screening tools 

  • Set guidelines for care; space needs, exercise, socialization and basic training

  • Address training needs and provide resources

  • Develop respite plan for foster pet-parents

Set a standard and support success

Create a free “Best in Show” toolkit for the development, implementation and ongoing management of foster programs. Bring together experts to create a certified foster dog parent program to share, at no cost, with dog rescues across the country.

How It Works

While the foster parent provides the basics: space, exercise, socialization, basic training and love – we will work with the rescue to ensure they can provide supplies from a Forgotten Dogs Foundation Pet Pantry. Items can include: a crate, bed, food, collar or harness, leash and toys; training support if needed. The shelters would also offer sitting if the foster parent needs to travel out of town while they are fostering.

Our program will help shelters create foster programs that work in tandem with their foster parents. The goal is to build a team of foster parents they can count on over and over; making the experience positive for the dog, the foster parent and the shelter. Ultimately, a shelter that creates a strong foster program will reduce their costs, increase the number of animals who get adopted.