Fostering
S.A.F.E. House needs caring, responsible animal lovers to join our foster team. The goal behind fostering is to provide the animals with socialization, basic training, and in some instances rehabilitation in a safe home environment. Foster parents will be asked to complete an evaluation describing the habits, behavior, temperament, etc. of their foster dog. This information is a valuable tool in helping us make a good match between pet and prospective new pet owners. Foster parents need to make a commitment to spend time with the foster pet and give all the exercise, love and attention he needs.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the cost to foster? All you are asked to provide the foster pet is a premium pet food and any toys you would like to provide. S.A.F.E. House pays for any necessary medical expenses, including monthly heartworm and flea preventive.
May I choose the animal I foster? Yes. The application allows you to set limits on the kind of dog you foster. A S.A.F.E. House volunteer will also review your application for other pets, children, etc., and may make suggestions based on his/her knowledge of the pet.
What if the dog I choose doesn't work out once I take him home? If for any reason the foster dog is not compatible with your other pets or family members, he can be placed elsewhere. You are not required to keep him until he is adopted.
How long does the dog stay in foster care? If the pet is healthy, two to six weeks is typical. If you have chosen a large breed dog or a dog that has medical conditions that need to be treated prior to being made available for adoption the length of stay can be months.
Do I need a fenced yard? We require that all of our dogs be kept inside your home. Due to the leash laws in Harris County, a fenced yard is mandatory. A dog under 25# may be fostered in an apartment, condo, or town home where a yard is not available as long as the dog is not allowed off leash at any time.
What is my responsibility as a Foster Parent? Foster homes are responsible for the daily care of the pet including feeding, exercising, socializing, brushing and grooming. The foster dog must have a collar and ID tag on at all times (these will be provided to you). Other responsibilities include: reinforcing basic obedience commands; evaluating general behavior and temperament; and providing love and security at this difficult time in their lives. We also ask that you remain alert to any changes in the dogs eating habits, stool, or temperament and alert the foster home coordinator immediately if there are causes for concern.
What if I work full time; can I still be a Foster Parent? Many responsible dog owners work full or part time and still provide a loving home for their dog. However, our first concern is safety: for you, your family, your own pets, and the rescue dog. Therefore, we require that any time you are unable to directly supervise the foster dog; he must be confined in a secure area, preferably a crate. S.A.F.E. House will supply one if you do not own one.
What if I want to adopt the dog I am fostering? If you decide to be a foster parent, it should be with the understanding that you are working toward helping an animal in need, and not with the goal to "pick and choose" the right dog you may wish to adopt. If you think you may wish to adopt, we require a completed Adoption Application be on file.
What if I know someone who wants to adopt my foster dog? For legal reasons, it is not appropriate for you to allow someone to take your foster dog into their home. If you have a friend or relative who may be interested in adopting your foster pet, it will be necessary for you to refer them to the foster home coordinator. They will be asked to complete an application and speak with a counselor.
I WANT TO FOSTER, WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Please call us at 281-370-0133 for an application or speak with a volunteer at one of our adoption sites. After we have received your application and spoken with you in detail to answer any additional questions you may have we will help you choose your foster pet.
S.A.F.E. House does not yet have a shelter to house the many dogs that are turned into local animal shelters daily. All rescued dogs are fostered or boarded at our expense in a kennel. PLEASE let us know if you can help us house a rescued dog until a permanent home can be found.
S.A.F.E. (Saving Animals From Euthanasia) House Rescue and Adoption works with the local animal shelters in this area. Our goal is to remove a dog from the shelter before it is to be euthanized due to any number of conditions, age, size, etc.
Time is of the essence in a lot of cases as we are sometimes notified just hours before euthanasia. In those instances any foster home is likely to be contacted for emergency shelter.
S.A.F.E. House has no paid employees and all foster home applications are seriously considered. We currently have our 501c3 application on file and all contributions are tax deductible.
If you feel you are ready, willing, and able to open your heart and home to a wonderful temporarily homeless pet...
...PLEASE CALL 281-370-0133.