Adopt & foster

Behind every dog in this book is a shelter that gave them a second chance. Here's how you can be part of that story too.

If you have love, patience, and a nurturing home, you could change a dog’s life as a foster carer.​

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Adopt

Are you thinking about how adopting might work for you? 

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Here is some helpful info to guide you through this process - as seen in the book.

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Why adopt? - written by North Shore Dog Rescue

Finding the right match - written by Dr Katrina Warren

Bringing home a rescue - written by Mali Luty, dog trainer and behaviourist

Behind the scenes of Rescue and Adoption - written by Melissa Penn, Managing Director Sydney Dogs & Cats Home

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Fostering

Foster carers give a dog a safe place to stay while they wait for adoption  - a weekend, a few weeks, or longer. Most shelters cover food and vet costs; you provide the home, the walks, and the love. It's one of the easiest ways to save a life without a lifetime commitment.​

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What does Fostering Involve?​

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The basics

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• A safe, comfortable space (a quiet room or corner is fine - not a mansion)

• Regular meals (often supplied by the shelter)

• Fresh water, always available

• A cosy bed or crate for their own space

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Time and patience

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• Daily walks or toilet breaks

• Quiet, low-pressure time to settle in - some dogs need days, others need weeks

• Gentle handling, especially early on -  let them come to you

• Basic routine and consistency (same feeding times, same walk times)

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Health and safety

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• Vet visits as needed (usually covered by the shelter/rescue)

• Administering any medication if required

• Keeping other pets or young children calm and supervised during introductions

• A secure yard or leash-only walks until you know the dog's recall and temperament

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Emotional support

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• Patience with nervous behaviours - hiding, shyness, or clinginess are normal at first

• No punishment-based training  - calm redirection instead

• Celebrating small wins (a wag, a stretch, coming out from under the table)

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What you're usually NOT responsible for

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• Most shelters cover food, vet bills, and supplies

• You're not expected to "fix" behavioural issues - just provide stability

• The shelter handles adoption applications and matching​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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