Foster
Nurturing the Heart of Dogwood Doberman Rescue
What do fosters do?
Besides taking in a desperate Dobie, you play a key role in readying it for placement.
Provide a safe, loving, temporary home for a rescued Doberman.
Help socialize, rehabilitate, and provide it with basic obedience training.
Report to us via an online forum on your foster Doberman’s habits, needs, temperament, behavior, likes, dislikes, health, and personality.
Assist with transport to and from the veterinarian and meet ‘n greets (other volunteers can help with this).
What will it cost me?
All reputable rescues, including DDR, provide a contract so that you know up front what to expect. We provide a full medical intake exam before the Doberman comes to you, along with a bath and a nail trim. We can also provide a crate, bowl, lead, collar, and bed if you need them. We will pay for treatment of any existing medical conditions and for commonplace illnesses and injuries that occur during reasonable socialization activity or despite your prudence and caution while in your care. Some of our fosters like to provide their own choice in food, treats, and toys. We can also cover these things, and we offer a foster stipend. Remember, your contributions may be tax deductible. Ask your tax advisor.
How long will I have my foster?
Some dogs are ready to go in two weeks. Some take months. You can decide because you’ll be advised about what to expect before you commit (we never force a specific foster Doberman on you). Also, if you have planned a vacation or something just comes up, we’ve got your back. If you need a break or if there is a problem, just let us know in time to find alternative arrangements.
What if it doesn’t work out?
You’ll never be stuck with a dog you don’t want. Remember, we want you to be very happy, and we want our dogs to be safe and loved. But everyone knows that life happens. If something comes up, we commit to take the Doberman back as soon as possible and place it elsewhere, without judgment. We need and appreciate advance notice, of course, but in case of emergency, we will respond immediately.
How do I know this Doberman will be safe?
We all know there are no guarantees, whether you get a puppy from a breeder or a teen from a rescue. But from day one, our policy and process attempt to rule out dangerous dogs. We will not accept them. We screen our Dobermans for temperament before we accept them, and we take them directly to the vet for a medical intake exam before they go to a foster home. With the input of shelter staff, the care and input of the vet and the technicians, history from prior owners, our own considerable experience, and our trainer/behaviorist evaluation, we have a pretty good take on a Doberman before it ever goes to a foster. We tell you all we know. We work with you. If you have limits, we respect them. We want you to be happy and we want to know that you are comfortable with this individual, and vice versa. We expect you to adhere to strict policies to keep yourself, your friends, and the Doberman safe. Ultimately, we all must acknowledge that there is risk present in rescue.
What if I need training help?
We’ll ask our behaviorist/trainer to provide it. You will also be part of a great network of DDR volunteers who are ready to help you at any time. If you need help with dog walking or transport, or help with training or treatment, we will do all we can to provide it.
Yeah, but what if I fall in love with my foster?
OK, it happens. We try to discourage our fosters from adopting because–well, er, because we need fosters! But if love happens, we won’t break your heart. It happens, and it’s affectionately known as “foster failure.” To avoid it, we suggest that you look on your foster dog as you would your kid’s visiting roommate: “She’s here temporarily and my responsibility while in my home, but she’s not my kid.” If you adopt that stance, you’ll probably be able to maintain safe emotional distance.
What are the qualifications?
We will discuss policies in a lot more detail during your Home Visit and Introduction. A couple key qualifications include:
All members in your household are ready and willing (with no reservations) to foster and adhere to DDR policies.
You are at least 18 years of age and are legally able to enter into binding contracts in the state of North Carolina.
All members of your household are 12 years of age or older if you want to foster a Doberman over 6 months of age. If you want to foster Doberman puppies under 6 months of age, your human children can be of any age.
If applicable, you can present confirmation from your landlord or Home Owners’ Association (HOA) allowing you to keep a Doberman Pinscher at your residence.
If you have a yard, it is completely fenced, your fence is at least 5′, preferably 6′, high and in good repair, and your outside gates are always securely locked.
You keep your pets as indoor pets.
Our fosters play a vital role in the heartbeat of our rescue efforts, enabling us to make a difference in the lives of Dobermans in need. Without your support, our mission would not be possible. Contact us now to learn more (expect a call from our dedicated team!) or explore common questions below. Ready to get started? Jump ahead with our online foster application (please note, this is specifically for fostering; for adoption inquiries, visit our adoption page).
What's in it for you? More than you might imagine!
Breed Compatibility Testing: Discover if the Doberman fits your lifestyle by fostering the breed of your dreams.
Temporary Companionship: Enjoy the companionship of a dog without the enduring commitment.
Lifesaving Impact: Open your home to a Doberman, save a life, and contribute to a lifetime of love.
Training and Resources: Access exceptional free training and resources provided by Dogwood Doberman Rescue.
Bragging Rights: Earn well-deserved bragging rights for making a difference.