Foster Parent Essentials

A few fostering essentials that we have found effective fostering owner surrender, breeder release, puppy mill, and those with behavior challenges.   These things are helpful in transitioning a dog to their new home and routine. 

1) Red Kong:  Always use 1 size up from the package recommendations.  Bigger is always better.  This filled with yummy stuff is the fastest way to acclimate to a crate and prevent dogs anxiety associated with you leaving the house.

-Peanut butter is one item to ad to the inside of a kong, freeze overnight

2) Squeeze cheese: that cheap processed cheese food we ate as kids...readily accepted by most...and high value enough to overcome shyness etc. ONLY use this as a high value reward for training/ handling...never just as a treat.

3) Peanut butter: be sure you use sugared peanut butter or an all-natural brand without any XYLITOL OR BIRCH SUGAR. This is deadly toxic to dogs.  You can use Kongs, on spoons as rewards, or smeared on the tub so bathing is more pleasant for the dog.

4) Adaptil: this is a dog appeasing pheromone that helps dogs feel safe and secure.  This can be used every time you get a new foster, during any periods of stress and with all behavior rehab dogs. Very safe and effective.