HSLC’s Vision for a Dog Foster Program
By Liz Bresnahan
As an entirely foster-based organization, the number of animals the Humane Society of Loudoun County (HSLC) can accept is completely dependent on the number of foster homes we have. Currently, HSLC has a very limited number of dog foster caregivers. But, Amy Richards would like to change that. As HSLC’s Animal Care Director, here is Amy’s vision for what an ideal dog foster program would look like.
Strength in Numbers
Amy understands how important it is to have a deep bench of fosters. Having an extensive foster network would ensure that a safe landing is always available when HSLC is asked to take in an animal in need. While long-term fosters are crucial, vacation fosters are also essential as they can step in and support whenever a long term foster is out of town or in case of an emergency.
Transport
Sometimes dogs come to HSLC from out of the county and even out of state. In those cases, we need volunteers who are willing to drive to the dog, either at its original location or at a mid-way point if the other rescue/shelter can arrange a transport volunteer on their end.
Additional Help
Before a dog arrives in the foster home, Amy would like them to be assessed by one of HSLC’s vet partners, and/or a trainer or behaviorist if applicable. That way, Amy can pair the animal with a foster who is best able to meet the dog’s specific needs and set the animal up for a successful adoption.
Resources
While HSLC covers all medical costs, it relies on the foster to provide food, crates, grooming supplies, etc. If the community donated these resources, this would allow the foster family to focus solely on taking care of their foster animal. Additionally, Amy would hope to have enough funding for training and boarding for the foster dogs when necessary.
Dog Foster Coordinator
As the dog foster program grows, Amy would foresee needing additional support to manage the details and day-to-day needs of the fosters and any emergencies that arise. As part of the coordinator role, this individual would also organize outings for the dogs, such as group walks and playdates, to help with socialization and train new foster caregivers.
At HSLC, we hope that Amy’s vision of a comprehensive dog foster program can someday be a reality. It would allow us to be able to support more dogs like Tipper who was recently rescued. He is a senior dog who was surrendered by an elderly owner who could no longer care for him. When he came into HSLC’s care, it was clear that he needed significant grooming and medication to treat Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis. He’s all cleaned up now and anxiously waiting to find his forever home. Be sure to check out his bio!
If you are interested in learning more about becoming a dog foster or feel inspired to contribute to HSLC’s foster program in other ways, please contact foster@humaneloudoun.org.