How long am I expected to foster?

We prefer that you commit to fostering your animal until an adoptive home can be found. Unfortunately, we cannot predict how long this will take. It depends on the animal’s breed, age, temperament, and the time of year, as well as how proactive you are about marketing your foster animal and attending adoption events. If you can only foster for a specific period of time, please be certain to indicate this up front. Sometimes another foster home can’t be found, which means that your animal must go to a boarding facility. We prefer to avoid boarding animals because it’s both expensive for Pack Life and stressful for the animal. Still, if you find you cannot continue fostering your animal, contact us immediately.

What if my foster pet has to go to the vet?

As you signed in the Foster Agreement, vet care for foster animals must be provided by an approved Pack Life vet. All vetting is paid for by Pack Life, but only if you take the animal to one of our vet partners. If you take your foster animal to a vet other than an Pack Life vet partner but have not received approval to do this, you will be responsible for paying the bill. With very limited funds, Pack Life must utilize the partnerships we have whenever possible. This is very important, and non-negotiable.

The procedure: First, contact Pack Life to determine whether vetting is necessary. There are many ailments for which Pack Life keeps treatment supplies on hand. If a visit is deemed necessary, and it is a non-emergency issue, we will work with you to make an appointment at a convenient time. You are then responsible for taking the animal to the vet. If your schedule does not permit, we will work with you to get the dog to the vet in a timely manner.

What if my foster pet has a vetting emergency?

We always want to make sure all of our animals get the very best medical care – especially in the case of an emergency. If your animal has an obvious and clear emergency (hit by car, serious fight with an animal, ingestion of dangerous object) then contact Pack Life and inform them that you will be taking the animal to your nearest emergency vet.

What if my foster animal isn’t working out?

Pack Life will make every effort to ensure a good and safe foster match. However, there are times when this will fail. In this case, contact Pack Life as soon as possible. If the issues are minor, Pack Life will work with you to address them. Many times, problems can be solved by trying a few new things and/or by giving the animal time to adjust to your home. For example, we can switch crates, switch foods, or offer simple behavioral solutions to try. We may also have a trainer work with you. Other times, an animal may simply not be a good fit for your home or lifestyle. Pack Life will always take the foster animal back if an issue cannot be resolved. However, we ask that you give us at least 24 hours to make a plan. If that is not possible, we will make emergency arrangements. Pack Life never wants to put the safety of the foster person, their own animals, or the foster animal in jeopardy.

Can I adopt my foster animal?

Yes, so long as we all feel it makes sense. But keep in mind that adopting your foster animal may mean that you can no longer foster. We’ll be sad to lose you! Think through the decision carefully so that you are not deciding to keep the animal solely because it is too difficult to let him/her go. The first few foster experiences can be difficult, as you’ll get attached and may have trouble letting go. But remember, your role as a Foster person is invaluable! As an adopter you may only be able to save one animal’s life, but as a foster parent you have the potential to help dozens of animals. You will need to work with Pack Life to discuss whether your adoption is truly in the best interest of your foster animal.

What if I have to leave town?

Please notify us ahead of time so that we can make arrangements for your foster animal to go elsewhere while you are gone. Some foster people (who have other pets) have dog sitters who will also watch their foster dog. Other foster volunteers like to travel with their foster dog. Others may have a boarding facility they work with. We are open to ideas, but generally cannot afford to cover the costs of dog sitters or expensive boarding facilities. If you wish to pay for these options once they are approved by Pack Life, that is great (and can be considered a donation)! If you cannot, Pack Life will allow you to make arrangements either with one of our boarding partners or with another foster volunteer. Be sure to give us enough warning so that we can help you make these arrangements. Keep in mind that holidays can be difficult to find space and are expensive. The more advance time we have, the better!

What if I have an emergency and have to leave town suddenly?

Contact your Pack Life representative right away. We will work with you to find a suitable option or have you bring the animal to one of our boarding partners.

Can I take my dog to the dog park or hiking?

Absolutely, but only after you get to know the dog and know that he/she will do well in that environment. Going to the dog park prematurely may result in a fight, and we cannot afford expensive vet bills. And of course, we don’t want your foster dog or any other dog harmed. And NEVER take your dog off-leash unless you are in a fully fenced, secure area. Be aware, too, that some dogs like to climb or jump fences, so be sure to pay close attention the first time you take your foster dog off-leash. You will be surprised at which dogs like to and can jump fences! Your foster dog should always have an ID tag with your, or Pack Life's information. This is vital. Putting your foster dog in a situation that could bring danger to him or others is something every foster needs to think carefully about.

Do I have to use the crate for my foster dog?

We highly recommend it! We cannot guarantee that a dog is housebroken, won’t chew your items, and won’t hurt him/herself when unattended. The safest way to protect your home and the dog is to use the crate. Pack Life cannot be responsible for damage done by a dog left unattended and uncrated. In time, you may find your foster dog doesn’t need the crate; but make that decision only after you “test run” the dog a few times and really get to know the dog and his/her behavior.

Can I rename my foster animal?

In most cases, yes! Animals that were turned into a shelter, however, may have had their names for years. In that case, we recommend against giving them a new name or suggest you find a name similar to their existing one. If you have any question about this, contact Pack Life.

Am I expected to buy supplies for my foster?

Pack Life typically has donated items (food, collars, leashes, treats, toys, etc.) on hand that we can supply you with. However, you are more than welcome to purchase these items for your foster dog so that we do not have to purchase them, or so that we may use the donated products for other dogs in need. If there is something specific you will need to care for your foster dog (crate, gates, etc.) please let Pack Life know in advance.