Canine Foster Care

Role Requirements

As a dog foster, you will be welcoming a shelter dog in need into your home. Fosters should have a deep sense of compassion and a desire to help both humans and dogs. You will be expected to provide daily care for your foster dog, including giving medication as needed. It is important that fosters fully embrace ARLNH’s commitment to positive reinforcement-based training and closely follow recommended training plans.

The length of time for fostering varies depending on the reason the dog is being sent. Some of our dogs qualify for Rovernights, which is our short-term program. Other dogs may be sent for weeks at a time. In NH, dogs may only be sent to foster for behavioral or medical needs. We will provide fosters with necessary food and medical supplies, as well as general supplies like bowls and toys.

Responsibilities

Ensure your foster dog is provided with the best possible care
Ensure access to proper food, water, housing, exercise, and enrichment. We will provide all supplies, such as food!
Take photos and videos, and help provide info for website bios
Monitor behavior and physical condition
Participate in orientation/training as required for the role
Be able to transfer your foster dog to/from the shelter
Communicate with the foster coordinator

Physical Requirements

Most of the dogs we send to foster are large breeds. Fosters should be aware of how much dog they can handle, and be comfortable letting us know if a dog is too much.

Emotional and Mental Requirements

Fostering is a rewarding way to support a dog in need, but it also comes with unique challenges. To ensure the best experience for both our animals and our foster families, we ask that foster families bring the following skills and qualities to their role.

Ability to maintain composure during challenging and/or emotionally charged situations
Ability to work with shelter staff and volunteers in an understanding and supportive manner.
Ability to remain positive and judgment-free in challenging situations

Required Skills & Attributes

Ability to work well and communicate effectively with the public, staff, and volunteers
Ability to follow instructions and ask clarifying questions as needed
Interest in learning about dog behavior and body language