Handy Foster Tools

Decompression is key. Give your new foster time to adjust out of shelter life and into your home. Remember, you’re accustomed to living in your home. Your new dog is not. This can be several days, or more common, a couple weeks.
Set boundaries and rules as soon as the dog enters your home. Permission to jump on couch (or not at all), sleeping in a dog-bed or crate versus in your bed, not receiving scraps at the table, and more.
Crates are an invaluable tool when fostering a dog. They are a tool, not a punishment! Some dogs appreciate the comfort and safety of a crate, and you can make it cozy with towels or blankets, or get a dog bed.
Collars can save a life.
- Martingale collars tighten when a dog pulls and are escape-proof when fitted correctly
- Recommended brands: Freedom harness, Easy Walk harness, Gentle Leader, Head Halti, etc.
- Back-up the harness by connecting with the collar using a carabiner for extra safety.
- And: always, always, always ensure your foster dog’s collar has proper identification!

Muzzles are not mean. Muzzle training can be a 1-2 week process.
Toys that serve multiple purposes
- Puzzle toys (buy or makeshift), slow feeders, snuffle mats (DIY link), Kongs
- Soothing vs. stimulating toys
Separate resident dog from foster dog the first 24 hours, if possible, to acclimate
In the first few days, only essential meet-n-greets
Separation Anxiety helpful resource on hellopigpen.com