Foster homes need to be able to care for and help these dogs become socialized and members of the family.  Fostering is a serious undertaking and GSRT very carefully screens foster applications to ensure they would provide a safe haven for our rescued dogs.

• If you have other pets, will you be willing to divide your attention between them and the rescued dog? A rescued dog will need love and attention, so be prepared to share the time you presently spend with your existing pets.  Please think about this, and the time commitment. If your current pet is special needs or requires more exercise and care than most dogs, please give special consideration to this before you apply.

• If you have other pets, will they be accepting of the rescued dog? Some jealousy and "pack hierarchy" behavior is to be expected, of course.  However, if you have cats, be aware that some German Shepherd Dogs are notorious cat chasers.

• We will give instruction on how to work with the dog and how to assist with integrating the dog into your home, and we will require you to follow our instruction, even if we may disagree on some methods.  This is an important part of fostering for GSRT.

• Are you willing to accept a dog with perhaps neurotic behavior? Again, many rescued dogs have experienced emotional trauma, or never received adequate obedience training. Being a foster caretaker for a rescued dog requires extra patience and work!

• Are you willing to give up to a new owner a dog with which you create a strong bond? This is likely the most difficult aspect of being a foster caretaker, but it is inevitable. Of course, you can always permanently adopt the dog that you foster--and some foster caretakers have done just that!   

While being a foster caretaker for a German Shepherd Dog is a major responsibility, the rewards are far greater than the sacrifices. Knowing that you are saving the life of a beautiful, loving animal by providing a foster home for it is an incredible feeling!