Do you want a Maltese, but are not sure if you are ready for one? A Maltese rescue may provide you with the option you’ve been waiting for. Instead of purchasing or adopting a Maltese right away, you can gain experience by volunteering as a foster dog parent.
If the idea of becoming a foster dog parent sounds interesting to you, you’ll discover that it can be very rewarding. Not sure if this commitment is for you? Consider the following:
Emotional ties – It takes a strong person to be able to open their hearts and home to a dog that they will only be caring for during a short period of time, before giving them up for adoption.
Financial aspect – all the finances linked to the dog will likely be provided by the Maltese rescue.
Foster time period – the rescue will usually request that you take care of the dog for at least two weeks. Will your career allows you to handle this responsibility?
How many dogs would I care for? – You would only be requested to take in one foster dog. Although you may feel compelled to care for more, simply caring for one allows the Maltese rescue to take in one more dog from the shelter and give him the care he needs.
Below is more basic information about dog foster care. Note, your local Maltese rescue may follow different guidelines, make sure you contact them to learn what’s involved.
Application – you will need to fill out an application to become a foster parent, just as you need to fill out an application when adopting.
Fosteragreement – This is the contract of terms and conditions of becoming a dog foster parent that both the foster home and Maltese rescue are bound to follow.
Home inspection – The rescue will come to your home and carefully inspect it to make sure that it is a safe environment for the dog. This means having a yard that is fenced and free of things that could be potentially harmful to the Maltese. If you live in an apartment, you will need to make sure you will be able to take the dog out on a regular basis for exercise on a regular schedule.
Provide socialization and attention – You need to be willing to provide the Maltese you care for with the attention and support he needs while he is adjusting to living with you. Socialize the dog as much as you can to improve his personality and comfort level.
Keep the Maltese rescue updated – Inform the rescue about the progress you’ve made with the foster dog. For example, is the dog housebroken? Does he like other animals? Does he like children? etc. The more details you can provide the rescue about the dog, the more information can be provided to those interested in adopting him.
Your opinions counts – If someone is interested in adopting your foster dog, you will be notified and have a chance to screen the applicant. No foster dog is given up for adoption until it is first discussed with the Maltese rescue and the foster parent. The foster parent has the right to refuse the adoption applicant.
Maltese Training & Care…
