"saving one dog will not change the world, but surely for that one dog, the world will change forever."
Fosters are the backbone of all rescue organizations & allow us to continue to save the lives of dogs at high-kill shelters. We could not continue to rescue and save dogs without our fosters. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts!
Dear future foster,
Thank you for applying to help homeless dogs in-need! Fostering is a rewarding, meaningful and life-changing volunteer opportunity that directly saves the lives of animals.
When you agree to foster a dog, you agree to provide them with love and safety. Dogs coming out of the shelters have no one in the world; you are now that dog’s life-line. Very rarely can you find a volunteer opportunity that has such a direct and immediate impact. Fostering changes not only the course of the dog’s life, but it often can change the people volunteering as well!
Fostering is about a bigger picture; the process is about more than any individual person - it is first and foremost about the animals who have already been through so much.
More on Fostering: Fosters are expected to actively help dogs become their best selves - a little time and attention can go a long way! Safety is a top priority for all involved. We cannot stress enough that you must take the first week slow! Baby steps in the beginning help set everyone up for long term success.
Foster’s should anticipate some speed bumps along the way (potty accidents, chewed shoes, and other normal dog behavior that often goes hand is hand with welcoming a new dog in the home.) Be patient and kind with your foster dog! They are trying their best.
HFP Fosters agree to use positive reinforcement only and to never hit or physically harm the animal.
Each animal is an individual with different needs & requirements, as well as varying duration of stay. To minimize bouncing from place to place, we expect fosters to care for their dogs until they are adopted.
We ask fosters to please send weekly “pupdates” with pictures, videos, and bios so we can show the world your foster dog & actively promote him or her. You will get to know your foster dog better than anyone & we want you to be part of the adoption selection process.
Hearts for Paws can provide fosters with bedding, food, toys, treats, leashes, collars, bowls, crates, and monthly preventatives! Some fosters opt to use their own equipment or food, which is of course welcome!
You will find more info & FAQs on our Foster Application Page. Once your form is submitted we will set up the Onboarding Process of a Call + Onboarding Docs/Waiver. We are excited to get you started on this journey! Thank you!