Are you interested in
fostering a Golden Retriever?
I'd like to foster, what do I do next?
Once your family has
decided, together, to foster a Golden Retriever, please fill out the
adoption application (the applications
for adopting and fostering are exactly the same, since many foster families do
eventually adopt one of their foster dogs). You should hear back from a
volunteer within a few days. If you have any questions before filling out the
application, please call our hotline, at 512-659-4653, and we'd be very happy
to discuss fostering with you. Thank you!
Why are Foster Homes used?
As an ethical rescue organization, GRR is committed to being truthful in
disclosing any behavioral or medical problems our dogs may have to potential
adopters. Our Foster Homes help us find these. This policy is also practical
-- we want adopters to make an informed choice about the dogs so the adoption
can be a permanent and happy one. The observations and recommendations of the
Foster Family are crucial to the continued success of the GRR organization in
placing rescue Goldens.
Why should I become a
Foster Parent to a Golden Retriever?
Foster Care will culminate in a new beginning for a deserving Golden
Retriever. By fostering a dog, you get to know the dog. Since you know the dog
best, you help us determine the best new and final home for that dog. Each
time you help match a displaced Golden Retriever with just the right family,
you will know you have done something good, caring, helpful, and lasting. You
will have been the major player in helping a wonderful Golden Retriever find a
happy life.
What will I need to
do?
Foster homes are responsible for the daily care of the foster dog, including:
-
Feeding
-
Socializing
-
Exercising
-
Brushing and grooming as needed
-
Observing behavior and temperament
-
Providing love and security
to a special Golden Retriever at an often-difficult time in his or her life.
 How much time does it take?
From an hour a day to however much time you can spend with the dog. These dogs
just want to be loved.
How long does a dog
stay in Foster Care?
If healthy, a Golden Retriever normally stays in Foster Care from two weeks to
two months. Occasionally we have dogs that need longer-term care.
What if I can't keep
the Foster Golden any longer?
While it is best for the dog to stay in one home while in Foster Care, we
realize that plans sometimes change unexpectedly. GRR will work with you to
find another Foster Home to take the dog.
May I choose which
dogs to foster?
You may certainly set limits on the kinds of dogs you foster. If you are asked
to foster a dog that doesn't seem right to you, you can decline. If a foster
dog you have accepted proves too difficult to handle, it can be placed
elsewhere.
Will I become
attached to my Foster Golden?
Usually, but when you meet the people who will provide a permanent home for
the dog you have helped rescue, you will feel the satisfaction of seeing him
move to a new and better life.
May I adopt my
Foster Golden?
GRR does not encourage or expect you to adopt your Foster Golden. We also
recognize the realities of fostering, including the fact that Foster Families
often fall in love with their Foster Golden. Therefore, the Foster Family has
the first option on adopting the foster dog.
Do I have to be home all
day with the Foster Golden?
No. Many of our foster
families are employed full or part-time away from home. However, our first
concern is safety: for you, your family, your own dog(s), and the rescue dog.
Therefore, we suggest that any time you are unable to directly supervise the
Foster Golden, he must be confined to a secure area. You can crate him,
baby-gate him into one or two rooms, or leave him loose in the house --
depending on what works best for you and the dog.
Do I need a fenced yard?
A fenced yard is
preferred for all dogs less than 7 years of age. Foster Goldens must NEVER be
allowed to run free. If your yard is securely fenced, the Golden may be
exercised there, off-leash; but outside the yard, the dog must be on a leash
at all times.
What if I have questions or problems with a Foster Golden?
All Foster Homes
receive GRR's Foster Care Manual, which provides guidance on routines and
special aspects of fostering. Our Foster Home Coordinator and Adoption
Coordinator are available for telephone consultation on problems not covered
in the manual. GRR members are organized around the cause of helping this
truly exceptional breed of companion dog and they will help you too!
How much does it cost to Foster a Golden Retriever?
Lack of funds should
not prevent you from fostering, but you will have expenses for:
-
Good quality
dog food
-
Telephone calls
-
Any toys you provide
-
Any damages the Foster Dog causes.
-
On the other hand, the Foster Golden's veterinary expenses and medications,
including heartworm preventative, will be paid for by GRR unless you want to
donate these expenses to GRR (they are tax deductible).
If I can't be a Foster Parent, is there another way to help?
YES! You can volunteer to transport Golden Retrievers to a veterinarian, or
the Foster Home, you can work our hotline and help screen potential adopters,
you can participate in any number of GRR activities:
If
you are interested in any of these activities, give us a call, or email us.
We will be glad to have your help and you will be glad you got more involved
in sharing your love of Goldens!
To get
started fostering right away, fill out an
application and be sure
to indicate you are wanting to be a foster home.
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