Foster FAQs
How & When Does My Fostering Begin?
Once you are on our foster family list, you will be called when a foster dog is available. Many foster parents will pick up their foster at the shelter or home from which they are being relinquished. However, transportation can be arranged if the dog is in another state, or the foster parent can’t travel.
How Much Notice Do I Get When My Home is Needed?
Rescue is an unpredictable business and BBR may receive several bassets within a very short period of time. It is important that a foster family be as flexible and available as much as possible. BBR will contact foster families as soon as we receive word of a homeless basset in need of foster care. Most bassets are transported during weekends since that is when most of our volunteers (transporters & foster homes alike) are available.
What Does It Cost To Be A Foster Home?
The most important thing a foster family provides is LOVE! You are also expected to provide a good quality dry dog food in the appropriate quantity for the foster basset…and treats, since bassets love their ‘yummies!’ If your foster basset needs a special diet, please contact your Foster Home Coordinator to discuss it with them. Some foster dogs might also need a dog bed or blanket and toys. If necessary, BBR can loan foster families a kennel or crate for the hound.
BBR pays for all approved veterinary expenses, including vaccinations, spay/neuter, heartworm preventative and any necessary medication. These expenses must be discussed with your Foster Home Coordinator before they are incurred. We often work with vets who offer reduced rates and bill us directly so you may not have to pay ‘out of pocket.’ If you do, BBR can reimburse you if you do not want it considered as a donation. Again, you will need to talk to your Coordinator first.
If a foster basset needs obedience training or other special circumstances occur, please contact your Foster Home Coordinator first and they will help you make appropriate contacts and arrangements.
If a foster dog is injured or needs emergency care, first, seek immediate, appropriate medical attention for them, then notify your Foster Home Coordinator as soon as possible.
BBR pays for all approved veterinary expenses, including vaccinations, spay/neuter, heartworm preventative and any necessary medication. These expenses must be discussed with your Foster Home Coordinator before they are incurred. We often work with vets who offer reduced rates and bill us directly so you may not have to pay ‘out of pocket.’ If you do, BBR can reimburse you if you do not want it considered as a donation. Again, you will need to talk to your Coordinator first.
If a foster basset needs obedience training or other special circumstances occur, please contact your Foster Home Coordinator first and they will help you make appropriate contacts and arrangements.
If a foster dog is injured or needs emergency care, first, seek immediate, appropriate medical attention for them, then notify your Foster Home Coordinator as soon as possible.
How Long Can A Basset Be In Foster Care?
Many factors affect how long a basset may be in a foster home, including their age, temperament, and gender as well as the time of year, and location of foster home. BBR has had bassets in foster care for only days, while others have been fostered for months.
Do I Have A Say In Who Adopts My Foster?
Yes! Foster parents, in cooperation with the Adoption Coordinator, take great pains to make sure that the best match is found for your foster dog. BBR believes that our foster families ‘speak’ for their BBR foster dogs and we depend on their decisions.
What If I Love My Foster Too Much To Let Them Be Adopted?
Foster families are given first priority for adoption of their foster dog. But, remember that fostering is designed to provide temporary care to homeless bassets.
What Happens If I Have To Be Away While Fostering?
If you will be away from home while fostering, please contact your Foster Home Coordinator as soon as your plans are made. BBR will try to make arrangements to have your foster basset cared for in another foster home or designated kennel while you are away.
What If The Foster Is Not A Good Fit With My Family or Other Pets?
BBR is committed to providing guidance and support for its foster homes throughout their fostering experience. If you have any questions, concerns, or problems with your foster contact your Foster Home Coordinator immediately so the appropriate action can be taken promptly before there is an issue.
What About Dogs Who Need Special Help?
Occasionally, we take in a dog with problems that need very special help. BBR recognizes that these problems are directly related to their prior lifestyle, and not the fault of the dog. He/she may have been living outside and does not understand what it means to be in a house and follow the “house” rules. Or, they have been crated whenever they were in the house and never learned ‘house’ manners. Sometimes a dog has issues about food or feeding, while others were never been properly socialized, and are extremely shy or fearful. BBR makes every effort to help these hounds and needs foster homes who are willing to give these dogs the extra care and love they need. We have many resources (and mentors) available to work with you. With your love, patience, and gentle, safe foster home, these dogs can learn to be the best basset they can be! If you feel that you are prepared to ‘go the extra mile’ and help with one of these special hounds, please talk to your area Foster Home Coordinator.