Caring for Your Foster Animal

Behavioral Needs:

• Mental Enrichment: Provide a variety of toys, puzzles, and chew items to keep them mentally stimulated. Rotate toys weekly to keep things interesting.
  
• Training and Reinforcement: Use gentle training methods like treats, praise, and clicker training. Avoid punishment—it can lead to fear and confusion.
  
• Monitor Reactions: Pay attention to how they respond to sounds, people, or new objects. Fearful body language includes crouching, shaking, and tail tucking.

Health Needs:

• Daily Observation: Check your foster daily for any signs of illness—sudden fatigue, limping, labored breathing, or changes in appetite.
  
• Administering Medications: If the rescue provides medications, follow dosing instructions exactly. Record doses on a log sheet.
  
• Transporting to Vet Appointments: You may be asked to bring your foster to the vet for checkups or vaccines. Communicate with the shelter about what’s required.

Socialization:

• Controlled Introductions: Slowly introduce your foster to new people, pets, and experiences. Positive exposure builds confidence.
• Pacing is Key: Some fosters need days—or weeks—to feel safe. Never force interaction. Let them come to you on their own terms.