In this time of uncertainty and isolation, and with more time on their hands and the need companionship, more people are interested in adopting or fostering a rescue pet. While this is wonderful and helps save lives, there are a few things that you should consider before jumping in feet first:
-
If you rent, please review the pet policies in your lease agreement to see if you are allowed to have a pet. If you are, see if there are any size or breed restrictions; if there’s a pet deposit. Some leasing companies also tack on additional monthly pet fees.
-
Most rescue organizations rescue from the shelters, and therefore, we don’t have much information about the pet, so if you want to foster, you would need to be prepared to foster sight unseen. We typically rescue dogs that are in our kill shelters, so it’s important to keep an open mind when fostering a rescue pet. Any potential foster would need to be committed until the pet is adopted.
-
If you are interested in fostering for a shelter or facility, then the animal will have to go back to the shelter when you return to work, unless you decide to adopt the pet you are fostering. This causes shelter population issues: the kennels that were emptied while pets were in foster care were likely filled during that time. That could also increase euthanasia rates, so it’s best if fosters can commit to fostering until the pet is adopted.
-
Ensure your home is appropriate for the pet you want to foster or adopt. If you live in a small apartment, then you may want to consider fostering or adopting a smaller pet. If you have stairs, then an older dog with mobility issues may not be the right pet for you. Make sure your yard is safe with adequate containment. Also, make sure you buy-in from everyone in the household. If you live with your parents, a spouse or roommate, EVERYONE in the home must be on-board and involved in the foster or adoption process.
-
If you are working from home now, but will eventually return to an office, will have time for a pet WHEN you go back to work and the kids go back to school? If you couldn’t have a pet before the COVID-19 crisis because you had a busy work, life, and/or travel schedule, you likely won’t have the time to have a pet when you return to work. Don’t just assume you can return the pet because your schedule doesn’t permit it when things return to ‘normal’. It’s not a pair of shoes. It is a lifelong commitment during quarantine and beyond.
-
Be realistic with what you can handle. Do your research. Don’t adopt a cute Frenchie just because you like the breed and your friend has one. As cute as they are, Frenchies are nevertheless bully breeds, and can be quite temperamental and strong headed. Certain dog breeds are more prone to health issues, so do your research research before you commit.
-
Pets can be quite expensive. If you adopt a pet, are you prepared for the expense? If you are adopting a dog, her or she could cost upwards of $900 per month, and that doesn’t include the exorbitant cost of emergencies, which could be in the thousands of dollars. Also, the older they get, the higher the costs. Remember, a pet is FOR LIFE! Not just a quick fix while you have some spare time on your hands. Be prepared for the financial commitment as well as the time commitment and the emotional and physical commitments.
-
If you want to foster, most nonprofit rescues, like PPITS, cover all costs including medical costs, training, and provide all supplies (food, bedding, toys, leash/collar, etc.) However, it’s also best to check with each shelter or rescue organization for which you are interested in fostering and get more information on their respective foster and adoption programs and policies.
Recent Comments