Be the bridge to their forever home

Foster homes are the heart of GRIN. They’re where dogs begin to feel safe, build confidence, and learn what it means to be part of a family. Without fosters, we can’t say yes to the dogs who need us.

SUPPORT FROM GRIN

We’re here to support you every step of the way

We know fostering can feel like a big step — but you’re never on your own. GRIN provides the support, resources, and care needed to help both you and your foster dog succeed.

What we provide:

Full veterinary care and medical support
Guidance and resources through a foster packet
A dedicated “Foster Buddy” for ongoing support
Help with placement and adoption coordination

You provide the home. We’ll help with the rest.

TIME COMMITMENT

How fostering fits into your life

Fostering doesn’t require a lifetime commitment — just a willingness to show up for a dog when they need it most.

Some dogs stay for a few weeks, others longer depending on their needs. Even fostering one or two dogs a year can make a significant difference.

How to get started

We’ve made the process simple so you can focus on what matters — helping a dog transition into a better life.

Step 1:

Apply

Complete the foster application (same as adoption) so we can learn more about your home and experience.

Step 2:

Approval

We’ll review your application and connect with you to make sure it’s a good fit.

Step 3:

A new beginning

When a dog is a good fit, we’ll coordinate placement based on their needs and your home, lifestyle, and experience.

Step 4:

Support & transition

You’ll care for the dog while we work together to find their forever home.

EXPECTATIONS

What these dogs need from you

Fostering is incredibly rewarding — but it also comes with responsibility. Your role plays a critical part in preparing each dog for adoption, and we’ll support you every step of the way.

We take care to match each dog with a foster home that fits their needs and your capabilities — so you’re not taking on more than you’re ready for.

As a foster, you will:

Provide a safe, loving home environment
Help build confidence and basic routines
Provide daily care (food, exercise, attention)
Attend scheduled vet appointments
Observe and share behavior insights to support adoption matching
Communicate with potential adopters when needed

Basic requirements:

Must be 21+ and live within GRIN’s service area
No children under 10 in the home (safety requirement)
Resident pets must be up to date on vet care
All dogs in the home must be altered (with limited exceptions)
Commitment to positive training methods only
Dog must live indoors (no unsupervised outdoor access)

Start your fostering journey

Fostering one dog won’t change the world — but for that dog, it changes everything. If you’re ready to make a real impact, we’re ready to support you every step of the way.

Questions about fostering?

Do I need experience to foster?

No prior experience is required. We provide guidance, resources, and support to help you feel confident. If you’re willing to learn and care, you’re a great fit.

What costs am I responsible for?

GRIN covers veterinary care and medical expenses. You’ll provide daily care like food, routine, and a safe environment. We’re here to support you along the way.

How long will I foster a dog?

It varies depending on the dog and their needs. Some stays are short, while others may take more time. We work with you to find a good fit.

What if I get attached?

You probably will — and that’s a good thing. Fosters have the first right of adoption, so if it feels like the right fit, you have the opportunity to make them a permanent part of your family. If not, you’ll still play a life-changing role in helping them find their forever home.

Can I adopt my foster dog?

Yes. Foster families are given the first opportunity to adopt their foster dog if it feels like the right fit. We want what’s best for both you and the dog, and we’ll support that decision either way.

Can I foster if I already have pets?

In many cases, yes. We’ll consider your current pets when placing a foster dog to ensure it’s a safe and successful match.

What kind of dogs will I foster?

Dogs come from a variety of backgrounds, including surrenders and difficult situations. Some may need extra patience and time to adjust. We do our best to match foster families with dogs that

What support will I have during fostering?

You’ll have access to veterinary care, a foster support system, and guidance from GRIN throughout the process. You’re never on your own.

How often will I need to communicate with GRIN?

We’ll stay in touch throughout the foster period. Your updates help us better understand the dog and find the right forever home.

Why are foster homes so important?

Because without them, we can’t take in more dogs. Foster homes are what make rescue possible — and allow us to say yes when a dog needs help.