Foster Program

Sadly, Austin has a pet overpopulation problem. Austin Animal Center alone takes in 24,000 animals every year and this is only one of several shelters with which we work.  Many of these dogs are healthy with no behavioral issues. Their owners have a multitude of reasons for surrendering their dogs: moving, new baby, health issues, financial issues, allergies.

As an organization of dog loving volunteers, we strive to give these dogs a second chance by matching them with a new family that will be thrilled to welcome them into their home. The foster program lets shelter dogs learn to live in a loving environment until we can place them with a perfect family. We rely solely on foster homes to care for the dogs while they await their new family.

Why would anyone open up their home to an unknown, sometimes untrained dog? Because the rewards are amazing. Some of the rewards of fostering include:

The objective of a foster volunteer is to create a nurturing environment, allowing the rescued dog to flouish until placed in its new home. Basic responsibilities of the foster include feeding, socializing, grooming, and medicating animals if needed.

First, dogs at the shelters are evaluated based on basic temperament qualities.  We look for dogs that are friendly, outgoing, good with other dogs, kids, etc. We attempt to pull dogs that have reasonably good manners or puppies that can be quickly taught manners.

After the dog is selected from the shelter, it receives full vetting; including vaccinations, de-worming and heartworm test.  Most dogs will be spayed or neutered before being placed in their foster home.

 ADA has a team of experienced dog owners and trainers at its core.  Many of our trainers have worked in dog rescue for years.   As a foster caregiver, you and your foster dog may attend any of our dog training classes that are appropriate for the age and skill level of your foster dog.

ADA also provides a crate, monthly heartworm and flea/tick preventative for you to use for your foster.   We provide and pay for all approved veterinarian expenses.

ADA works with all breeds and sizes. Austin is fortunate to have many breed specific rescue groups which are able to help many of the purebred dogs in the shelters. ADA’s focus is primarily mixed breed dogs and serving as a back-up for breed specific rescues when they are out of space.

We understand that some people like or are better equipped to handle a certain type of foster dog. For this reason, on your foster application, you may indicate your preference in size and age of the dogs you would like to foster.

Start by filling out a foster application online.  If you have a pet, we will contact your veterinarian to ensure the pets in your care are current on their vaccinations.  It is a requirement that your pets receive their Bordatella vaccination prior to you bringing in a foster dog.  Bordatella (kennel cough) is common in shelters and foster dogs may have been exposed.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us!  We welcome your inquiry and commitment as a potential member of the ADA Rescue Team!