Fostering with BEDR

A foster home is the temporary home a dog stays in from intake, until they are adopted. All BEDR’s foster homes are screened and approved ahead of time.

After they pass a home check (we can accommodate this virtually if needed), fosters are given all the supplies they could possibly need by BEDR, and are then responsible for loving, socializing, and assisting in any special needs of the dog. 

Foster Responsibilities

Feeding and Watering

BEDR will provide instructions.

Shelter

A safe, warm place to spend their time.

Basic Training

House breaking, crate training, leash walking, and basic obedience such as sit, wait, stay etc.

BEDR has professional trainers on hand to help you if you are unsure.

Lots of Love and Socialization

Cuddles and playtime!

Ensure their Dog attends Adoption Events

Arrangements can be made if you are not personally available.

Ensure their Dog attends any Medical Appointments

Arrangements can be made if you are not personally available.

Complete the Adoption Process

New fosters are assigned a mentor to show you the ropes.

Foster Support

Food, Treats, Chews

BEDR supplies all the food your dog will need.

Toys, Accessories, Cleaning Supplies

From frisbees, to leashes and collars, beds, and pet deodorizer, we’ve got you covered!

Medical

We will cover any medication or special products.

Professional Trainers

If you’re experiencing a behavioural issue or just want advice, we’re here to help!

Respite

Our foster group helps each other out in the event that someone is going on vacation etc.

Expert Advice

Every step of the way, our vast network of experienced volunteers are eager to answer any questions.

Expenses

We will never expect you to pay for any out-of-pocket expenses and strive to provide absolutely everything you will need.

In the event that an unforseen expense does arise, we ask that fosters contact a Director first.

Benefits of Fostering

We supply EVERYTHING

You will never have any out-of-pocket expenses, just your time and love!

You can choose your foster

You can be selective about the types of dogs you foster; from age, to training level, to breed or size, you only foster the dogs you are prepared to foster.

It's a part-time pet

It’s like having a part-time pet! Some people simply aren’t able or willing to commit to owning a dog full time, fostering is a nice way to have a dog for a while, and then wish them well in their fur-ever home.

Find out if dog ownership is for you

Fostering is a great way to see if you are really ready for a dog, without committing or spending a dime!

Join a network of information and experts

We have a dedicated group that are happy to answer any questions, mentor, help out, provide respite care if you need to go away for a while, find a new foster if needed, share advice and stories, and so much more!

Feed your soul

Volunteering to help rescue stray, abandoned, or unwanted dogs is a really awesome feeling, and seeing their progress is very heart warming.

Considerations before Fostering

It's a minimum 2-week commitment

All dogs in care are placed on a 2-week medical hold before going up for adoption. Assuming there are no issues, then they go up for adoption.

Puppies are usually very quick to be adopted, often in a matter of days. Older dogs or dogs with special needs can take longer.

Dogs bark and howl sometimes

A new place can be scary for a dog. Fosters must be kind and patient with dogs as they adjust to a new environment, and understand that there may be whining or howling at night in the beginning.

Fosters of adult dogs may also need to work with our trainers on any behavioural corrections such as barking at other dogs (dog reactivity), but rest assured we are always fully transparent about any issues, and would never foster out a vicious dog.

Dogs can have accidents

A new place can be confusing for a dog. Fosters must be kind and patient with dogs as they adjust to a new environment, and understand that there may be accidents in the beginning as they are not sure where to go potty.

All dogs shed and track in dirt

Hair or skin on the furniture / clothes is a reality. Even “non-shedding” dogs still shed dander. Dogs leave muddy paw prints or wet nose prints in their wake all the time. If you are house proud, be prepared to whip out the vacuum!

Dogs come from all backgrounds

Our dogs in care come from all over Saskatchewan. Some are abandoned, some are thoughtfully surrendered, and some are received through a network of rescues and we might not always know all the details of their background. We will always work with our fosters to ensure the right fit.

Patience and kindness are a must

In some cases, a foster home is the first time a dog has been provided with steady warmth, shelter, diet, and security. Gentle and patient love and care from our foster families unlock the hidden joys in each dog as they slowly come out of their shell.