Other requirements:

  • You should live within 60 miles of the Twin Cities - or be willing to drive to us.
  • Time. Fostering is a long-term committment - we request a minimum commitment of four months
  • Attend at least one Adoption Event a month.
  • Supervise their foster pet at all times. When no one is at home, the foster pets should be baby gated or crated, if necessary, for safety.
  • Understanding and patience. Many of the dogs coming into SAB’s program are strays with little or no house experience. With training, love and consistency they quickly snap to your routine and learn to become dogs. Our supportive network of volunteers and trainers are available with advice to help you along the way.
  • Have the foster animals on a leash when outside at ALL time, unless you have a completely fenced in yard.
  • Exercise their foster pet adequately. Foster dogs are expected to have daily walks.
  • Send updates on your foster dog to the Foster Coordinator on a regular basis. This would include the foster pet's likes, dislikes, biographies, and of course...lots of pictures!! These will all need to be kept as up to date as possible.
  • All resident pets in your must be spayed or neutered and up to date on vaccinations.
    • Exception may be made for medical reasons.
Still interested? Fill out our Foster Application.

Fostering FAQ

What does is expected of a Foster?
You provide a loving home for this dog until it gets adopted. This includes reinforcing obedience and teaching them to be household companions. You will know your dog better than anyone else, so we ask that you write up a description of your foster for our website. Provide good photos and try to take some video clips of cuteness. Additionally, we ask foster parents to attend one of our monthly training sessions prior to an adoption event.

What is provided?
SAB covers the costs of all medical care. We will provide a crate, food, collar and leash for the dog, along with bowls if you need them. Occasionally we receive donations of treats and toys to hand out as well. However, remember - all expenses associated with your foster dog are tax deductible! We would love to be able to pay for toys and other things for our dogs, but we are a non-profit organization, and simply cannot afford to reimburse you for these items.

How long will I have my foster?
The truthful answer, is until they find their right home. As a guideline expect anywhere from 2-6 months but it can be anywhere from a few days to months, and sometimes longer

What if I go on vacation while fostering?
We have some volunteers that are able to help out with respite care when given enough notice. Please let us know as far in advance as possible, one week minimum, and we can make arrangements.

Will I be sad when my foster is adopted?
Honestly, letting them go, especially the first one, is not easy. All the fosters have been through this and will share their stories. All of our dogs go to the best homes, and seeing that you just helped someone add to their family is very rewarding. Many adoptees send us regular updates and stop by adoption events down the line, too.

What if I want to adopt my Foster Dog.
This happens all of the time! We will lovingly call you a “foster failure.”

Featured Dog

Nelly
More about Nelly

Highlights

Petfinder Facebook Twitter YouTube Solid Gold Foster Benefits