As a foster 'parent', you are not only providing shelter, food and health care, you will be responsible (to the best of your ability) for learning about and assessing the dog's temperament, character and abilities before finding him a new home.

You should teach some basic commands if possible to the dog. Things such as sit, stay and having the dog walk on a lead will of course ensure a better transition into its new home. It is also important to socialise with other dogs, and people. You'll may also need to also look for fear or aggression triggers.

These things will depend on a wide range of factors. The dogs age, how long you have him, its history, how much time you can spare each day, inside or outside dog?

When it is time for your dog to go to its new permanent home you will most probably feel an attachment to your foster dog. It is important to remember that you did give the dog a second chance at life.

Animal Rescue Groups

The best way to start foster caring is through a rescue group.

Most rescue groups will cover the cost of vet fees. Things such as:
- vet examinations
- desexing
- micro chipping
- vaccinations

When you find a permanent home for the foster dog, an adoption fee (or reimbursement fee) is paid by the new owner and is passed on to the rescue group.

Some rescue groups will receive donations of food/ blankets/ medication which can be passed onto carers.

Other rescue groups are able to provide full food and health care for the foster dogs. If you find that you are struggling with a foster dog, let someone from the rescue group know. Often rescue groups share their resources and work together for the benefit of the dogs.

Some dogs take longer to find homes than others, if you find that you are unable to continue fostering, then the rescue group will need some notice so they can find another foster carer. Under no circumstances should be the dog be taken back to the shelter or given to any other organisation.

If you are looking for a particular dog you can specify which type or age you want although most dogs that end up in pounds are cross breeds. For example you may only want to take small dogs that get along with cats; or large outdoor type dogs. Others find puppies are less threatening to their own dogs.

Each rescue group has different requirements and procedures. For example; most rescue groups will not have the resources to take a foster dog back into care so they ask that you take on the foster dog as if you were adding the dog to your family until a permanent home can be found. It's best to contact them individually with your main questions. Most are very flexible and all have the one common goal; to protect and care for dogs in need.

Breed Clubs with rescue services.

There are hundreds of dog clubs in Australia and more and more are devoting resources to dog rescue.

Some clubs may only have one person organising the rehoming of the dogs, other clubs may have team of people organising fundraisers, maintaining a rescue website, and have a number of foster carers available.

There are hundreds of dog clubs in Australia and more and more are devoting resources to dog rescue.

Some clubs may only have one person organising the rehoming of the dogs, other clubs may have team of people organising fundraisers, maintaining a rescue website, and have a number of foster carers available.

Note: Some breed clubs will not take on cross breeds. That is their choice and we should be grateful that they are willing to volunteer their time. Even if you only want to rehome white dogs with a brown legs, that's great!

Greyhound Adoption Programs (GAP)

GAP is not a rescue group where they rescue greyhounds from pounds or animal shelters. The vast majority of greyhounds that go through the program come directly from their race owners who care for them until they have a vacancy in a foster home. They aim to work in conjunction with other welfare and rescue organisations for the benefit of as many Greyhounds as possible.