Fostering a pet is a great choice if you want a furry friend in your family. It prepares you to become a pet owner and helps shelter pets prepare for adoption. If this is your first time fostering a pet, here are some tips to become a successful foster parent.
- Make sure you have the time and are ready to commit for however long it may take for your pet to get adopted.
- Clean and organize a small space or room in your home to keep your foster pet. Consider having a crate filled with blankets and toys as well.
- Be ready to commit at least 1-2 hours of play with your foster pet per day. It’s the perfect time to promote socialization and make the pet comfortable around others. It will expose your foster pet to different places, people, and sounds.
- Teach your foster pet positive reinforcement by giving treats or petting them after doing something good. Do not allow rough play or playful biting; try redirecting their attention with toys for teething.
- Never force your pets to play with your foster cat or dog. Remember to introduce them slowly and add toys they can play with together.
- If you are afraid you may develop an emotional attachment to your new friend, remember how lucky they are to have you and how you’re helping them find a forever home. It’s always sad to say goodbye, and it’s okay to cry. Just don’t forget how you made a difference in the life of that little friend.
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