Thank you for your interest in fostering a Brown Dog animal!
Video credit: BDC Foster Lauren Sullivan
Brown Dog Coalition's foster program is the core of our rescue. Without fosters, we would not be able to help animals in need. Please complete each section of the application and provide as much detailed information as possible! We will respond within 72 hours of submitting your application. It is a requirement that resident dogs and cats are up to date on vaccinations, spayed/neutered, and see the vet yearly. The application does not guarantee you a foster animal. Brown Dog Coalition can provide starter food, crates (on loan), and collars, and is responsible for all pre-approved veterinary care.
Please complete the foster application WHEN YOU ARE READY TO FOSTER! Please contact us by email if it has been 72+ hours since you applied and have not heard from us: adoptions@browndogcoalition.com
+ What kind of foster homes are you looking for?
We're looking for pet lovers with extra time and love to give! For dogs, large dog friendly, fearful/nervous dog experience, fenced yard, and/or WFH are a plus but not deal breakers. Fosters should be within reasonable driving distance of Hopkinton, MA - if you're willing to drive we're happy to have you!
+ Can I specify my criteria for a foster dog/cat?
We take into consideration any requirements/preferences you have including gender, good with dogs/cats/kids, puppies, kittens, shy dogs, etc. However, there may not be a dog or cat in need who meets especially specific requirements.
+ Do I choose my foster dog/cat?
We do our best to match animals that need foster with an appropriate and available foster home. We take into consideration your preferences. If there is a choice available we will offer it, but the more flexible you are able to be, the better!
+ Do I provide food?
As a foster parent/family, you are asked to provide food, water, shelter, daily exercise and love to your foster dog/cat. We are happy to send home a starter bag of dog food, if needed.
+ How long do I keep the dog/cat?
Until they are adopted; which may take only a few days or a few weeks. If you are no longer able to care for your foster pet at any point, please give us appropriate notice, and we will take him/her back and arrange for another foster home.
+ What if I work full time?
For our dog fosters who work full time out of the house, we ask them to arrange at least one midday checkin either themselves, a family member, dog walker, etc.
+ What if I have an upcoming trip planned?
We ask that you please give us advance notice about all planned trips, or if you are unable to continue fostering the animal in your care, and we can plan accordingly to have them moved to another foster home.
+ How does the adoption process work for my foster dog/cat?
One of our volunteer adoption coordinators will be assigned to your foster. They will review all incoming applications and approve an adopter ahead of scheduling an in-person meet-and-greet (dog) or Facetime call (cat). We will work with you and the adopter to find a suitable time for this meeting/call.
+ How often will I be asked to foster?
We reach out every 2-3 weeks to see who is available to foster. We take into consideration those who have vacations or commitments planned and will do our best to work with your schedule.
