Foster a Dog

Fostering a dog can be a very rewarding experience. You have the opportunity to save the life of a homeless dog that needs more time to find a permanent home. We can only rescue as many dogs as we have foster homes! Click here to find out if you are ready to foster a dog.

Below, we try to answer the most common questions about fostering one of our dogs. If you have any further questions feel free to contact us.

What does a foster parent do?

A foster parent cares for a dog in much the same way as an owner would by nurturing, feeding, grooming and exercising the dog. It will be up to you how involved you want to be in adoption activities.

How long will the dog be with me?

Typically, a dog is in a foster home for around two months. However, we do, sometimes, have a need for short-term fosters.

What type of home do I need to have?

It really depends on the dog. Different dogs have different needs. When you apply to foster a dog, we will review your circumstances and determine which dog is a good fit for your home.

Do I need permission from my landlord?

Depending on your lease, you may need to get permission.

How much will it cost me?

Nothing. We will provide all the supplies, food and veternary care. We are, however, always grateful for any help that we receive.

What if I want to adopt the dog?

Many foster parents do end up adopting their foster dog. We will be happy to consider your application.

How do I proceed?

Your first step is to fill out a foster application. Please be as specific as possible with your answers so that we can get the best possible picture of your home and family. You may also want to review our fostering guidelines.

Once we have reviewed your application, we will contact you within one to two days to arrange a home check.

What is a home check and why is it necessary?

We do a home check for several reasons. It helps us to decide if the home is suitable for a particular dog. Some breeds, like huskies, for instance, need high walls or fences. A home check allows us to assess potential dangers and offer advice on how to overcome them.

What comes next?

After the home check, we'll work with you to find a dog that suits your home and family. We'll then arrange for you, your family and any existing dogs to meet the potential foster dog.

The interact went well. What next?

If the interact didn't occur at your home, we'll bring the dog (and all necesary items) to your home. Both parties will then sign the foster agreement.

What if I need help?

We want your fostering experience to be as positive as possible. We will follow up with you on a regular basis and you can always contact us.

 

Download an Application

Click here to download a foster application. Once you have filled it in, you may email it to us at:
info@thedogsquadrescue.org.

Alternatively, fax it to 760-804-1455 or send it via snail mail to:

The Dog Squad Rescue, Inc.
6965 El Camino Real
Suite 105 - 113
Carlsbad, CA 92009

Download Guidelines

Click here to download a copy of our fostering guidelines.