Foster Program Guidelines & Questions

Foster parents are a critical part of our program at Dog Star Rescue (DSR). As a foster-based CT rescue, we rely on foster families to provide dogs a home before they get adopted. And, fostering allows us to keep our adoption fees lower since we aren't paying for boarding costs for all the dogs we rescue. As a dog foster parent, you help us offer the dogs a second chance at finding their forever family. "Submit our foster application now to help save lives.

• While fostering requires time and patience, the rewards are personal and immeasurable.
• When you foster a dog, you give that dog the steppingstone to a long, happy life.
• Watching your foster dog blossom in your care and eventually go to their forever home is truly an amazing experience.

If you are interested in fostering, please read through the information below to determine if the DSR foster program sounds like it will be a good fit for you and your household.

How long are dogs in a foster home?

This varies greatly, depending on the individual dog. The duration can range from a few days to several months, with an average stay of just a few weeks. We ask that foster parents commit to fostering a dog until the dog is adopted. It is extremely stressful for a dog to be moved around once they are in a foster home. This is all coordinated through the foster's individual Foster Coordinator.

Do you get to pick the dog you foster?

Our Foster team will notify all fosters what dogs are currently needing a foster. Fosters will then reach out to their Foster Coordinator to confirm interest and the Foster Coordinator will let the foster know if that dog is a match for that foster family. Just like the adoption process, we want to do our best to match the right foster dog with the right foster family to set you and the dog up for success during their stay with you.

What does DSR provide and what do foster parents provide?

Foster parents provide a loving home, patience, basic training, exercise and socialization for their dog. DSR provides the veterinary care, a leash/harness, all food, treats, toys, a crate, bedding and medication if applicable to the fosters for their foster dog. We do not want you to incur any expenses.

How can I become a foster?

The process starts once we've received your completed foster application. We'll then provide you with additional information on our rescue and the foster program.

Can I adopt?

There may be an opportunity to adopt, however there is no guarantee that you will be able to adopt your Foster Dog as we do not have a foster to adopt program. Dogs are marketed to potential adopters weeks before arriving in CT and in most cases, have several potential matches before you meet the dog. You will learn more about the process during the foster onboarding.

How are foster dogs promoted?

Photos and stories of all adoptable animals in foster homes are posted on our social media channels, on Petfinder.com, on Adoptapet.com, and many other websites. DSR also schedules weekly adoption events. Foster parents can also help promote their foster dog to their family, friends, colleagues and the general public through their own social media channels, flyers, emails and even just by walking the foster dog in local neighborhoods with an “Adopt Me” bandana provided by DSR.

What if I have vacation or travel plans while I am fostering?

We also offer either foster or kennel back up if you need to travel out of town while you are fostering. This can be managed through your Foster Coordinator.

I live in a condo, town home, or apartment, can I foster?

Yes, you can still foster an animal living in a small environment. Many of our animals need one-on-one socialization, so a small space can be beneficial. However, it’s important that the dog selected is the appropriate animal for your lifestyle and are willing to commit to providing the foster dog with the needed physical and mental stimulation. It is your accountability to meet any landlord approval or association requirements.

What if I have children?

Fostering is a wonderful family experience and can build a foundation of love for animals in your children. You must also be diligent about providing guidance, instructions and rules to your children about caring for a foster dog. With that in mind, we generally do not encourage fostering for families with very young children.

If I don’t have a yard, or it’s not fenced, can I foster dogs?

Yes! A fenced yard is ideal for those early morning, or late night potty breaks and for a game of ball, but is not a requirement. Moreover, foster dogs are not allowed to be left unattended in a yard. The reality is that the majority of dogs don’t exercise themselves when left outside. Dogs need focused physical activity, mental stimulation and socialization and the best way to do this is by walking or running your foster dog on leash.

If I have my own animals, can I foster dogs?

Yes! It is important to understand how to properly manage multiple pets during the introduction period (the first few weeks a foster is in your home). This topic will be covered during your training and you can navigate this with your Foster Coordinator and our Behavior team as needed. We are here to help!

Do I have to crate‐train my foster dog?

No, but it is one of the most efficient and effective ways to house train a puppy or re-train an adult dog. Some dogs do not like crates initially, and most dogs need to be transitioned or “trained” to use a crate, so it’s up to the foster parent to decide whether to crate or not. Putting the dog in a crate while you are gone will give you peace of mind knowing that they are in a safe place, away from harm, and not doing any damage to your belongings or themselves. For many dogs, a crate can also represent a safe and comfortable place to call their own and provides them with a sense of security. Many dogs actually like having a “den” to cuddle up in. Crating should never be used as punishment.

Do I need to have prior medical knowledge or expertise?

No, but you may be asked to dispense medicine to your foster animal so you will have to be comfortable following veterinarian’s instructions if fostering a sick or injured animal. Your foster dog will be seen by our veterinarian before coming to your home.

What if my foster dog becomes sick?

All veterinary costs are paid by Dog Star Rescue. All veterinary care requires prior approval from your Foster Coordinator. If a foster animal becomes sick, foster volunteers will be given contact information and instructions at the foster orientation meeting.

How much time each day is needed to foster?

Commitment and responsibilities depend on the individual animal and situation. It’s essential that foster parents understand that dogs may be stressed and transporting an animal to the foster home is also very stressful and emotional.

Many of the dogs in the rescue are “adolescent” dogs between the age of 6 months and 2 years. They typically have a lot of energy and require vigorous daily exercise. This means at least a 30-45 minute brisk walk/run in the morning and again in the afternoon, with plenty of play time in between. Older dogs may only need a morning and evening stroll.

Foster parents may have to transport their foster animals to the vet during regular business hours.

Can I take my foster dog to an off‐leash dog park for exercise and socialization?

No. You are not allowed to take any foster dog from DSR to an off-leash dog park.

How can I help my foster dog become more adoptable?

Communication with your Foster Coordinator and the application Screener will improve the the accuracy of information to be transmitted to potential adopters. Be the foster's positive advocate! In addition, we love to get regular photos of your dog so we can continue to keep our marketing of that dog fresh. You can also give a foster dog additional exposure by telling friends and family about her will help create a “network effect” and will speed up the process of finding a forever home. Simple steps like taking a foster dog on walks in local parks, outdoor shopping areas and other high traffic areas will help find potential adopters. Social media outlets like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok also work well.

Our foster dogs benefit greatly from exercise (with the exception of those with some medical conditions), basic positive reinforcement training, special love and attention you give them. While marketing provides you with applicants, it’s always the dog that “closes the deal.” Shy dogs will benefit from your patience, routine and slowly exposing them to new people to build their confidence. Rambunctious adolescents who learn good manners will help show off their trainability and long term potential.

Am I responsible for finding my foster dog it's forever home

No, that's where our marketing and screening team come in. But we do need your help. Once a qualified applicant is identified, you will be asked to schedule a meet and greet with your foster and the potential adopter. This can take place at our Bloomfield CT headquarters or any other mutually agreeable location. Your quick response and then final input on the potential adopter is critical to finding a great match. We also will need your foster dog to attend our weekly adoption events.

Often, a foster parent will find a perfect match through their own network of friends, family and colleagues. DSR greatly welcomes these referrals! If you think you have found a perfect forever home for your foster animal, remember they still must go through the application process and be approved by the screener.

Can I return my foster dog to DSR if I am unable to foster any longer?

We prefer that foster parents continue to foster until we find a permanent home for their foster. However, we understand that situations change and it may become necessary to discontinue fostering an animal.