Question 1

Why do we need foster carers?

Accepted Answer

Dusty Paws doesn't have a physical shelter. To save the 
lives of rescue dogs, we need to depend on foster carers to look after them in their own homes.

Question 2

Am I suitable to foster a dog?

Accepted Answer

A wide range of people can be great foster carers, including those who work full-time, have other pets, live in apartments, have kids, are retired, or have a busy lifestyle. It's about finding the right rescue dog to match your situation. To be a suitable foster carer for Dusty Paws, you must be able to ensure: You have enough time to properly care for a dog. Your home and property have a secure fence. You can provide a safe, comfortable, and stable environment. Everyone in your household agrees to the fostering commitment. You have permission from your landlord to have a dog on the property.

Question 3

Does it cost money?

Accepted Answer

Fostering a dog with Dusty Paws Dog Rescue won't cost you a thing. 
We provide all the supplies you need to care for your foster dog, including: 
Food and bowls 
Beds and bedding 
Toys 
Crates and enclosures 
Collars and leads 
All necessary medications, like flea and worming treatments

We also cover all veterinary costs at our partner vet clinics, which are located throughout South Australia.

Question 4

What are my responsibilities as a foster carer?

Accepted Answer

As a foster carer with Dusty Paws Dog Rescue, your most important role is to provide a safe, secure, and loving home for a dog in need.

Your Responsibilities as a Foster Carer:
Fostering involves all the typical duties of caring for a pet, such as feeding, grooming, and daily walks.

We ask that you welcome a rescue dog into your home and treat them as part of your family. You'll also be a key part of the adoption process.

This includes:

Veterinary Care: 
Many of our dogs need vet visits for vaccinations, microchipping, or more complex medical issues. You'll be responsible for taking your foster dog to these appointments.

All vet bills are covered by Dusty Paws Dog Rescue.

Adoption Process: 
You'll write a short bio for your foster dog to help them find a home. You'll also review adoption applications and choose the perfect family. You know your foster dog best, so you are the most qualified person to select their forever home!

Time Commitment: 
Foster dogs stay with you until they are adopted. The length of time can vary, but all dogs must be in foster care for a minimum of two weeks.

What to Expect:
Fostering can be a very rewarding experience. You'll be giving a dog a second chance at a happy life while helping us ensure they go to the best possible home.

Question 5

Is it hard to say goodbye to a foster dog?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it can be difficult to say goodbye when a foster dog gets adopted. 
However, this is a happy occasion, not a sad one.

Most of our carers find that the reward of helping a dog outweighs the sadness of saying goodbye.

As a Dusty Paws Dog Rescue foster carer, you play a vital role in a rescue dog's life, bridging the gap between a pound and a forever home. The joy you'll feel when you get photo updates of your former foster dog living their best life is a wonderful reminder of the difference you made.

The best part? 
When one foster dog finds their family, you'll have an open spot to help another dog in need.

Question 6

Will I have support if I need it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. As a foster carer with Dusty Paws Dog Rescue, you'll have a strong support system.

Dedicated Support Team: 
You'll be added to a support chat with our founders who will guide you through every step, from your first day as a foster carer until your dog is adopted.

Foster Carer Community: 
We have an active online platform that connects all our foster carers. This is a great place to ask questions, share advice, and get support from others who understand what you're going through.

Behavioural Support: 
If your foster dog arrives feeling unsettled or has behavioural issues, we're here to help.  The founders and other experienced carers will assist you in creating management strategies. In the rare case that these strategies don't work, we will find an alternative foster home to ensure both you and the dog are safe and comfortable.  You will never be alone on this journey; we're here to support you every step of the way.

Dusty Paws Dog Rescue

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