Foster Requirements
You must be at least 25 years old to foster with us.
Due to our insurance requirements, the process to foster with us includes several steps. You will need to complete each of the following to foster:
- Complete this application including:
- Providing a copy of your driver's license
- Providing a copy of your automobile insurance showing coverage
- Complete the HADR Volunteer training
- Complete a Background Check
If do you not or can not complete all of these steps, please do not complete this application.
What is Fostering?
Foster parents are volunteers who take dogs into their homes and care for them until they are ready for adoption. We do not have a shelter or central facility and rely on our foster homes to provide the loving care our rescue Dobermans need. Without foster homes, we would not be able to provide a safe haven to these wonderful animals in need.
Animals that enter HADR’s program include:
- Dogs with no apparent issues at all; they only need a temporary home until they are adopted
- Dogs that need socialization because they are shy, have not been properly trained, or have been abused or neglected
- Dogs with special needs
- Dogs with minor behavioral problems
- Heartworm positive dogs that need to go through treatment
While some volunteers do end up adopting a foster dog, please note that the foster program is not for people who want to “try out” an animal prior to adoption. It is intended to provide one-on-one attention in a home environment for animals, in order to best evaluate them and prepare them for adoption.
What would I be expected to do as a foster parent?
- Provide a clean, nurturing, indoor home for the dog
- Take the dog to scheduled vet visits as needed
- Give medications as needed (including monthly administration of HADR-provided heartworm medication)
- Send periodic updates and pictures for our website
- Communicate with approved adopters and facilitate meet and greets of your foster dog
- Complete the adoption paperwork
What if I need to go out of town?
With enough notice, we can find another foster to take the dog or get him/her into boarding.
What if I already have pets of my own?
Don’t expect the dogs to be best friends overnight. We are experienced with proper dog and cat introductions and can provide assistance and guidance.
How long would I keep the dog?
There are many variables when fostering; a dog could be in your home for one week or two months. Please carefully consider the commitment and be sure all family members understand what this program entails. If there are medical issues or the dog has stricter limitations on the type of home that would be best (i.e. a home with no cats, no children, etc) an adoption may take longer.
Would I be responsible for my foster animal’s expenses?
HADR will provide and pay for the animal’s vet care, medications, and heartworm prevention. We can also loan crates, collars and leashes as needed.
What do I get out of this?
You get the extreme satisfaction of saving a Doberman and providing the vital care necessary to ease their transition to a forever home.
Helpful Links
Advice from Experienced Foster Dog Parents to Newbies
7 Ways to Puppy Proof Your Home for Your New Furry Friend
Dog Breedopedia
Chill Out! Decompression Tips for New Foster Dogs
How to Tell If Your Pet Was Abused - And How to Help Them Cope
Advice for Fostering a Puppy Mill Rescue
Fire Prevention, Preparedness and Recovery for Pets