Our dog rescue in Northwest Arkansas relies on our foster families to help us save the lives of dogs in our community. Without open foster homes, we can't rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs. Our foster families are so integral to our mission at Big Paws and not only provide love and care to our dogs, but help them get ready to be adopted. Dogs living in a home environment are less stressed and we get to see more of their true personalities!
What Fostering Looks Like
Fostering means opening your heart and home to a dog in need.
WHO?
Anyone can be a foster! We just ask you have adequate space and time to accommodate dogs. We match dogs for your specific household and needs. This can mean energy level, age, gender, behaviors, etc. We have some fosters who only take in puppies, some who want high energy males as a playmate for their current dogs, or those who like to help us with dogs with medical needs or special issues.
HOW LONG?
Fostering can vary in the time commitment depending on the dog. Typically, you can expect to have a foster dog in your home for 1-2 months on average. Some dogs get adopted in 3 days, some take 3 months- it just depends on the dog!
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?
Provide a safe, loving environment for a dog in need.
Send us lots of photos, videos, and updates on the dog's progress so we can advertise them for adoption.
Transport dogs to the vet for immunizations and any necessary medical care (but we can help provide transportation if there are scheduling barriers).
Attend meet and greets with potential adopters (as scheduling allows). Our foster families end up knowing the dogs the best, and are such a valuable resource of information for new adopters! We ask you to attend these meets (with a Big Paws representative) when you can!
INTERESTED?
Email us if you have any additional questions or want to schedule a time to discuss fostering in more depth! becky@bigpawsoftheozarks.org . Or if this sounds like a good fit for you just head over to our foster application here
TESTIMONIAL
Read about fostering first hand from one of our amazing foster families:
"Fostering for Big Paws has been the most rewarding experience for our family. The team at Big Paws is always there if we have any questions or concerns. My kids love having new dogs in our home and it is teaching them so many wonderful lessons about giving back to our community. Seeing our foster dogs adopted into loving homes is one of the best feelings in the world!"
If you are in a position, please consider fostering. You'll save a life.
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