Foster FAQs
New Hope Dog Rescue is always in need of loving foster homes in Saskatoon and area. You could help change a dog’s life for the better by becoming a foster! New Hope Dog Rescue will provide you with dog food, a crate, bedding, toys, and will cover all medical expenses for the foster dog. All you need to do is provide a loving, safe environment, some basic training, and transportation for trips to the vet, as needed.
By fostering, you have the opportunity to directly impact the life of a dog who needs a second chance. And did we mention that if you foster a puppy, you get to pick their name? That’s everyone’s favourite part!
Hear from Michelle, one of our past fosters, on what it was like fostering for New Hope Dog Rescue!
FAQs about Fostering
What does New Hope Dog Rescue provide for foster dogs?
Basically… everything! New Hope Dog Rescue provides dog food, a crate, bedding, and toys. We also cover all medical expenses, whether it’s vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, or even more extensive care, if needed.
What do I have to provide for a foster dog?
We ask that foster homes provide love, a safe environment, rules and boundaries, and some basic training (and housetraining, if needed). We also ask that you transport the dog to their vet appointments and adoption events.
What if I go on vacation – who takes care of the foster dog assigned to me?
We are pretty flexible; if you need to go away, we can provide a temporary foster home or a kennel stay at our expense. We ask for as much notice as possible so that we can make appropriate arrangements. Some foster homes take their dogs with them, but it’s up to you!
How long do dogs stay in foster care?
It varies, but the average stay is about 45 days. Sometimes, dogs are adopted within a week or two of being in foster care, and other times, it can take several months to find the best home. It’s not usually possible to predict exactly how long a dog will be in foster care, but lots of great photos and an accurate description of the dog go a long way to finding them a good home.
Sometimes we have some very special dogs who need care for extended periods while they nurse puppies or recover from an injury that required surgery. Sometimes we have dogs that need a little extra training or help because they are really shy. We supply the resources to help these dogs; it’s up to you if you want to help with these more complicated cases.
How many dogs can I foster at one time?
How many do you feel you can take? Most people only foster one or two adults at a time. We prefer to keep young pups in groups of 2 or 3 until they are 12 weeks of age. Sometimes we have litters that need to stay together, and that can be from just a few to 10 or more!
Can I choose my foster dog?
Yes! Our foster home coordinator sends out a list of dogs available for fostering with as much information as possible, and often photos. We also ask you what kinds of dogs you would prefer to foster (size, age, and training level), and we will contact you when we have a match. Usually it doesn’t take too long!
I have other pets in my home. Can I still foster?
Yes, many of our fosters have pets in their home. If your pets are great around other animals, we can always find you (and them) the right fit.
I noticed a dog that’s available for adoption. Can I foster that dog?
The dogs that are up for adoption are already in foster homes. We will not move a dog to another foster home unless the dog is in a temporary situation or the foster home needs reprieve.
I think I want to adopt my foster dog. What should I do?
Unless we’re in the middle of approving the adoption of your foster dog to another applicant, you can certainly adopt your foster! One of the hardest parts of being a foster home is saying goodbye, but it can be a good feeling as well.
Do I get a say in who adopts my foster dog?
As the foster family, you have the final say in which family adopts your foster dog.
I have more questions about fostering that are not listed here. Where can I go?
Please contact us.