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Have you ever considered fostering a puppy/dog from a rescue or the local shelter? Puppy’s can be a lot of fun and 
they’re very loving and playful.
Puppies will need playtime on the floor. You’ll want to spend time down in their world to make yourself more accessible and help socialize them. Plus they’ll want you to spend time with them on the floor anyway. Your time spent socializing your foster puppy will be crucial. A dog’s early interactions with people will help to shape how the dog behaves in every future contact with the people they meet. Remember the key to getting your foster animal adopted is socialization. The pup/dog at the front of the kennel that’s eager to meet potential adopters is more likely to be adopted. A dog’s cute face and wagging tail is his/her best advertisement.
Fostering is always give and take. You give your time and help save a life and they leave messes and probably take your slippers. Expect to clean up after a puppy at least twice a day. Depending on the age of the puppy, you may need to clean up more often. You will want to provide metal dishes so as to avoid any bacteria in the puppies/dogs water and food bowls.
If you are fostering a dog it is helpful to take him/her out for a 10-15 minute walk to help relieve anxiety though exercise especially when you first arrive at your home. After the walk show the dog around your house while still on the leash so he/she can become familiar with the new environment. Remain calm and don’t act too excited, your guest will pick up on your mood and could become nervous.
If you foster a very young puppy you may want to find a clock that ticks or purchase a cuddly bed or teddy bear with a heartbeat. The sound will help to ease separation anxiety and will let puppy sleep easier.
If you are considering fostering a puppy/dog you’ll need to be prepared by making sure you have the appropriate items for an indoor puppy or dog.
You’ll need to have:
- Leash
- Dog Food
- Food bowls – metal not plastic
- Water bowl – metal not plastic
- Towels or sheets for bedding (You may want two sets so you can launder one.)
- Toys
Don’t forget, there are also many full grown dogs in need of a caring foster home. For all the same reasons as puppies, fostering a grown dog can transform a shy dog into an out going, happy dog. Dog are fun, open your home, have some fun and help an animal in need.