Fostering with Lizzy's Lodge Rescue
Find out how to foster a dog quick & easy!
What kind of dogs need foster homes?
What kind of dogs need foster homes?
All kinds! We have dogs of all breeds, sizes, and personalities who need foster homes. Whether you prefer to foster a big, lazy couch potato, a smaller pup who goes crazy over toys, or a dog who just wants a buddy, we will find the right dog to match your household. Most of our dogs are dog-friendly, although some do prefer to be the only pup in the family.
Vet Q&A: Are foster dogs healthy?
Vet Q&A: Are foster dogs healthy?
All of our dogs are spayed or neutered (if age appropriate), up to date on required vaccinations, and microchipped prior to fostering and adoption. All available health records are provided.
What do dogs need from foster families?
What do dogs need from foster families?
Rescue dogs, regardless of their past, need patience, love and time. Even dogs that have been given up by loving families are confused, and are feeling lost. They need understanding--if they want attention or simply to be left alone. They benefit from exercise in the yard or walks around the neighborhood. Once they begin to feel safe, some basic training helps them build confidence and will help them be ready for a new forever home. Of course, the most important thing a dog needs in a foster home is love.
Is fostering right for me?
Is fostering right for me?
Some say, “I can’t foster because I could never let the dog go to another family”
As a foster for many years, I confess to occasionally taking my foster to a new home and driving away in tears. I admit to missing my foster from time to time, wondering if I should have kept that dog. I also remember the smiles and laughs when a former foster, out with the new family, comes racing over with wiggles, cuddles and a sloppy kiss. I love seeing the photos and videos of my fosters hiking, kayaking, swimming in the backyard pool or simply cuddled with a pal on a comfy sofa. I also think of draping my arm around a dog that can’t understand why his family left him. Or comforting a fearful dog that is afraid to even look at a person. But most of all I think of gently petting or simply sitting on the floor next to a dog—knowing that is the first affection that dog has known. When I look into the beautiful eyes of a foster dog and see “thank you” in them … I know fostering is right for me.
What is required to be a foster?
What is required to be a foster?
Fosters must be 18 years or older in a home in which all those living in the home want to foster a dog. Families need time in their daily routine available to spend with a foster dog, including providing sufficient exercise. Most of all, foster dogs require patience and lots of love as they begin the transition to a new life.
What equipment do I need to foster?
What equipment do I need to foster?
Many foster families already have some equipment; however, Lizzy’s Lodge can provide collars, leashes, harnesses and crates as needed for all foster dogs.
How long do I have to keep a foster dog?
How long do I have to keep a foster dog?
The length of time a foster is required varies with the needs of each dog. Some dogs adjust to the changes and are ready for a new family within a few weeks. Some require time to recover from their past and benefit from as few changes as possible. We try to meet the needs of each dog with the preferences of each foster family.
Will I have any expenses if I’m a foster?
Will I have any expenses if I’m a foster?
Lizzy’s Lodge pays all medical bills for foster dogs. Trips to the vet may be needed and will be coordinated with rescue staff. Often families provide the dog food, but we can help with that if needed. Foster families and the rescue work together to ensure a happy transition period for every dog looking for a new forever home.
Do I have to give up my foster dog?
Do I have to give up my foster dog?
Foster families do have the option of adopting the dog they are fostering, if the home can provide the best life for that dog. Most foster dogs work out well in a home for a few months or as long as needed, but it may not be right as a forever home. Keeping your foster dog is always a consideration for foster families. Lizzy’s Lodge and foster families work together to decide what is best for a forever home for each dog.
Working Together
Working Together
Lizzy’s Lodge works with families to find the right foster for each home. Many families are great dog families, but not every family is right for every dog. It is important for the dog and the foster family be a good fit so that the dog will blend into the family life and the family can meet the needs of that dog. Fostering is a team effort in giving dogs in need a path to a new, happy life, the kind of life all dogs are meant to have.
Email Us
Email Us
If you think you might be interested in fostering, please email us via the form below. In the email, please tell us a little about yourself and your dog experience, including what types of dogs might work in your family. One of our volunteers will get back to you to answer your questions and talk about the next steps. We look forward to speaking with you. You can make a difference!
Ready to Foster?
If you are interested in fostering, please fill out our online foster form. Still deciding? Use the form below to send questions, to ask for additional information, or to request a conversation. Let us hear from you!
