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The joys of fostering a golden retriever!
A key component of GRRR's rescue program is the foster home. Without adequate numbers of foster homes, we are limited in how many Goldens we can take in at one time. The principle behind fostering is to provide the dogs entrusted to our care with a home environment in order to evaluate their habits and behavior, and to offer the new owner more information on the dog. GRRR, Inc. needs caring, responsible Golden lovers to join our foster home team by opening their homes and their hearts to our rescue Goldens.
We have listed a few common fostering questions below. However If you have any questions that aren't answered here, please email us at Claws10133@aol.com or call 419-822-5872.
What does a foster family need to do for the golden retreiver?
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 Golden at an often difficult time in his or her life.
How long do we have the dog?
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 we 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.
Does my yard need to be fenced?
A fenced yard is preferred. Your dogs must NEVER be allowed to run free. If your yard is surrounded by a secure fence, the Golden may be exercised there off leash. Outside the yard the dog must be on leash at ALL times.
Can I pick which dog I'd like to foster?
We try to place the golden retriever with the foster family that will best suit its individual needs.
Does it cost a lot of money to foster a dog?
Lack of funds shouldn't prevent you from fostering, but you will have some expenses: a good quality dog food, telephone calls to prospective adopters and any toys you choose to provide. Necessary veterinary care is provided by authorized veterinarians and paid for by GRRR, Inc. Medications including monthly heartworm preventative are provided as well.
What if I have problems?
Volunteers are available by phone to work through most every problem or e-mail to answer general questions at any time. 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 not only improve, they flourish in their foster care, thanks to you!
What if We Want to Travel?
If you are fostering and want to go away for a weekend or take a vacation, the foster dog can be returned to the care of GRRR, Inc. Just give us a good "heads up" so we can prepare to take care of the dog while you are away.
Will I Become Attached to My Foster Dog?
Oh yes. In fact most fall in love---especially with their first few foster dogs and want to adopt them all. BUT you have to look at this venture as "there is always another Golden Retriever that needs your help."
When you meet the new family who's ready to provide a permanent loving home you will feel more than satisfied to see your foster dog move on to his new and better life. We do urge you to please keep in mind this is only temporary and you are moving this dog into their loving and permanent home life for keeps!
What if I Want to Adopt the Golden 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 Golden to a final home. If you think you might like to adopt a Golden, we require that a completed adoption application to be on file and the payment for the dog in full. Since we loose money on each adoption and rely on donations for our vet care, foster homes need to pay the adoption fee just like everyone else.
What is so important about fostering a dog?
The number of foster homes we have really determines how many goldens we can save! It's as simple as that!! Please consider fostering a Golden today!
Foster a Golden
I would like to foster, what do I do next?
Please fill out our adoption application to be considered for fostering. Please indicate you wish to become a foster on the application. AND, WE THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Attach and e-mail your foster application here! Submit application here!
A key component of GRRR's rescue program is the foster home. Without adequate numbers of foster homes, we are limited in how many Goldens we can take in at one time. The principle behind fostering is to provide the dogs entrusted to our care with a home environment in order to evaluate their habits and behavior, and to offer the new owner more information on the dog. GRRR, Inc. needs caring, responsible Golden lovers to join our foster home team by opening their homes and their hearts to our rescue Goldens.