Fostering

Do you have room in your home and heart for a dog in need of TLC? See what it takes to become a foster family.

Is Fostering For You?

What kind of facility is required? If you live with a Basset Hound now, chances are that your home is okay. A well fenced yard, fresh water, and a shovel pretty well cover the basic physical requirements.

How much notice will I have? We usually don't have more than one day's notice of an incoming hound; at times, just a few hours. When relocating existing foster Bassets, we are able to give you several days notice.

How can I apply to become a foster home? Just fill out the Application to Foster and we'll get in touch!

What do you do when you can't find a foster home? We board the dog and pay every day. One week's boarding expense often equals what it costs to rescue a Basset, so we try to avoid boarding when possible.

What will I be responsible for? Providing a safe environment; regular feeding, fresh water, and TLC. We also rely on foster homes to provide an evaluation of the dog's behavior, attitude, etc. This helps us to place the hound in the right type of home.

What will BHRSC be responsible for? The cost of vaccinations and other medical bills. Food, if you request it. Placement (although we gladly accept help on this).

Suppose the rescue doesn't get along with my dog, my spouse, our cat, etc.? Or suppose things change in my life and I just can't keep the dog? We will take back a Basset at your request (fosters and rescues). You won't get stuck or made to feel guilty (promise).

What if I foster one and then really grow to love it? In most cases, you will be able to adopt a foster that you have grown to love.

What are the advantages to fostering? Providing a needed service, perhaps saving a dog's life. Meeting some wonderful hounds, and learning more about the breed. Having the opportunity to "test drive" several Bassets in the process of picking out one to keep. Helping rehabilitate a dog that may have been abandoned, neglected, or even abused. Meeting some wonderful prospective families. Enjoying Basset Hound companionship without making a lifetime commitment.

What are the disadvantages to fostering? It is easy to grow attached to a rescue, and it can be hard to watch them leave. As with all breeds, there are hounds that don't meet the breed norms for behavior. The hound will require some of your time. There is only one real test of housebreaking; when you let the dog inside your house, you'll know soon enough.

How long will I keep a foster hound? Until it is placed, or until you tell us that you no longer wish to keep it. Some fosters are placed quickly; others take weeks or months.

Please fill out the Application to Foster if you are able to help us help these hounds!

The Foster Poem