Fostering Q&A

The foster program is a lifesaving extension of Valley Dog Rescue of Texas. Foster parents provide temporary homes for animals that are not ready for adoption and is a personal and gratifying way to contribute to saving the life of a homeless animal. Animals are fostered for a variety of reasons. Foster families provide the love and stability these animals need to be happy and healthy. When an animal has been in a foster home, it is more confident and sociable and is likely to get adopted more quickly.

The time required to foster an animal varies depending on the needs of the animal and the reason for foster placement. If you are fostering an underaged animal, a pregnant or nursing mama, or a special needs case, you will likely be fostering longer than usual. Our foster team will walk you through the unique process of helping some of the most vulnerable pets in our care.

Taking care of a foster animal involves feeding, cleaning, grooming, socializing and generally providing a lot of love and TLC. Because some rescued animals are sick, stressed, or frightened, they may require additional care. Animals with medical conditions may require trips to the vet and administering medication. Small puppies may require bottle feeding and a few trips to the rescue to receive vaccinations. A frightened animal may require extra weeks of attention and socialization to become ready for adoption.

Foster parentss are under no obligation to accept an animal that isn’t suitable for their home or family. 

Every foster home receives a foster coordinator who is there for you for anything you may need while you are fostering. You will also receive a foster packet that has contact information for the VDR leadership team, information about our processes, training, tips, medical guidance, and more! We coordinate all medical appointments and provide all vaccinations and monthly preventatives.

Valley Dog Rescue of Texas will cover the cost of veterinary care, medicine, and monthly preventatives.

VDR does not require fosters to have any skills other than patience and commitment to caring for an animal in need. Experience with animals is always helpful but not required. Every foster will have a foster coordinator assigned to them that will help answer questions and provide guidance every step of the way. The most important traits we look for in a foster is a big heart, good judgment, willingness to learn and patience.

If our foster placement team determines the pet of your choice is a good fit then yes! Foster volunteers have the opportunity to review the available foster animals and learn any pertinent information about them. These animals are assigned to homes in the order of the best fit for that animal. Foster parents are under no obligation to accept an animal that is not suitable for their home or family.

Absolutely! One of the best homes an animal can find is with their foster family. Our goal is to have the fewest transitions for the pet as possible. We ask that you first let our foster team know you are interested in adopting your foster pet. We cannot consider any family without an application, so you should complete an application as soon as you are considering adoption.

For more information on our foster program and to learn how to become a foster parent, email us at vdroftexas.applications@gmail.com or complete the foster application.

If you are unable to foster an animal, there are still plenty of ways you can help. Check out our Volunteer & Donation Pages to find out more!

• Volunteer your time and skills by assisting with walking dogs, administrative work, fundraising, events, or outreach efforts.
• Donate to support our operations, medical expenses, and care for animals.
• Spread awareness by using your social media platforms and personal networks to raise awareness about our adoptable pets, share adoption profiles, success stories, and information about upcoming events.
• Offer to transport animals to and from veterinary appointments, adoption events, or transport departures.
• If you have professional skills such as photography, graphic design, marketing, or legal expertise, offer your services pro bono.