Tips for Fostering Dogs When You Have Kids

Do you have kids and want to become a doggy foster parent? Read below for tips for fostering dogs when you have kids!

Prepare

Though your home may be completely puppy proofed, you should prepare your kids too. Explain the expectations and the purpose of fostering to your kids. Be clear that your family is preparing the pup for their forever home. Also, be strict in communicating that your family will not adopt the dogs you are fostering. This will prevent your kids from begging to keep the fosters you receive.

Communicate

Additionally, be clear in communication about boundaries, expectations, and duties with the furry friends you foster. And, express your understanding that while they may care for the dogs very much, their stay is temporary. Be upfront that the animals will leave someday and saying goodbye will have to happen. But, the four-legged friends are going to be so happy in their forever home!

Take It Slow

Balancing caring for your kids and fosters can be a challenge. So, you can be cautious about what dogs enter your home. Ensure they are friendly, but also ensure that your kids are comfortable with new additions to the household. With that being said, be prepared to make adjustments and learn together as a family!

Take On What You Can Handle

Along with taking it slow, you can also start small. You can begin with just one foster pup at a time. Then, you can determine how your family handles the situation and what more they can handle before committing to more. Additionally, some fosters come with unknown histories and health issues. So, it is important to know your capacity and stick to it.

Remember to prepare, communicate, and take it slow when it comes to fostering animals. Health, safety, and happiness are important to everyone involved!