Congratulations, New Foster! Welcome to PetConnect Rescue!

THANK YOU for choosing to foster a PetConnect Rescue animal! Volunteers and Fosters are
our backbone. Fostering an animal means providing a temporary home for a dog or cat while
PetConnect Rescue finds them a permanent home. Without people like you to foster, we are
unable to pull these abandoned animals to safety. All of our rescues come from shelters where
they are at high risk of being euthanized. In fact, about half of the animals languishing in
shelters across the country will run out of time waiting for a rescuer that will never come...YOU
CAN HELP US CHANGE THAT!

History of PetConnect Rescue

PetConnect Rescue was founded in 2005, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, and has evolved
into a vibrant animal rescue organization. Our mission is to save the lives of abandoned dogs
and cats and place them in loving and permanent homes. Each day, we respond to desperate
email and phone pleas to rescue dogs and cats imminently slated for euthanasia. We pull
these animals into rescue from over-extended shelters between Maryland and Georgia.
PetConnect Rescue is a non-breed specific organization, and we are committed to stepping
forward whenever we can and wherever there is the greatest need. PetConnect Rescue
arranges and pays for medical services ranging from routine treatments, such as vaccinations
and blood tests, to treating serious medical conditions such as broken bones. All PetConnect
Rescue animals, who are 5-6 months or older, are spayed or neutered to help decrease the
terrible problem of pet overpopulation.

Our Mission Statement

 PetConnect Rescue strives to be a best-in-class animal rescue organization dedicated
to helping cats and dogs in need. Our highly valued, compassionate and dedicated
volunteers are committed to rescuing adoptable at-risk cats and dogs from high-kill
shelters, placing them in loving foster homes, providing medical care and thoughtfully
placing them with caring adopter(s). Our goal is to make the adoption process a kind,
informed, effective and rewarding experience for the animals in our care, our volunteers
and the adopters providing loving forever homes. In order to achieve our goals, we treat
everyone with respect, provide training, education and ongoing support, demonstrate
courtesy and professionalism and are committed to the highest standard of excellence.

Important PetConnect Rescue Contact Information:

​ emember, your AC is always your primary point of contact.

**R

Mary Beth Champlin Rescue Coordinator mbchamplin@petconnectrescue.org 240.383.7991

France Bognon Adoption Coordinator fbognon@petconnectrescue.org 203.984.8823
Katie Hasse Adoption Coordinator khasse@petconnectrescue.org 540.454.2915
Randi Martin Adoption Coordinator rmartin@petconnectrescue.org 301.807.2829
Robin Turner Adoption Coordinator kinstondogs@verizon.net 571.269.7639
Diane Wood Adoption Coordinator djuddwood@gmail.com 703.618.2502

FOSTERING INTRODUCTION

Fostering a dog typically requires a commitment of, on average, three weeks. From time to
time, this commitment could be longer. All of our rescue pups will receive veterinary attention
prior to being delivered to their foster home. They will also be temperament tested. PetConnect
Rescue will cover any medical expenses that might be incurred while the dog is in foster care.
Many first-time fosters fear that they will become too attached to their rescue pup to be able to
give the animal up when an adopter comes along. Actually, most of our fosters will say that
fostering is one of life’s most rewarding experiences. They knew from the start that their home
was a landing place for an animal in desperate need. By fostering, they had the joy and
comfort of knowing that they have assisted in saving a precious life. Many of our fosters keep
up with the adopters via email, forging a lasting relationship with the pets they helped save.
Primary Foster Responsibilities:

● Taking great, high resolution pictures of your foster for his/her profile on our website

● Providing your foster dog with basic daily care, love, training and socialization

● Contacting the Adoption Coordinator when your foster dog requires vet care

● Transporting your foster dog to veterinary appointments

● Working with the Adoption Coordinator to find your foster a loving, forever home

● Attending adoption events with your foster dog and talking to potential adopters

● Handling adoption paperwork and transfer of your foster dog to his/her adopters

PREPARING YOURSELF TO BECOME A FOSTER

The role that you play as a foster is one of the most crucial aspects of the adoption
process. You will become intimately familiar with your foster dog, making invaluable
observations about your foster’s personality. You will be able tell your foster’s AC and
potential adopters what makes your foster feel safe, comfortable and happy. If you are
invested in the process, you will be able to help your AC find the perfect home for your
foster dog. This should be a very empowering feeling; however, along with that comes
responsibility. Here is how you can help ensure success for you and your foster:

• ​Be Prepared and Committed

You have made a big decision! You are a key player in the fate of your foster! By opening up
your home, you have saved a dog’s life, undeniably. Your foster dog will look to you for all of
his or her needs. You must be willing to give your foster exceptional care, unconditional love
and lots of attention. You will be devoting a large amount of time to your foster, daily care,
meeting vetting needs and attending adoption events. Foster dogs will come with some
imperfections, but they are a diamond in the rough. You will most likely need to work on basic
training skills and modify some undesirable behaviors that have been the result of neglect, an
ill-prepared, previous owner or life in a shelter. This may include housebreaking. ​You must be
committed to the success of your foster; however, the reward that you will feel will far
 outweigh the challenges. The love and affection you give will definitely be reciprocated
by your foster!!!

● Realize Your Limits and Communicate

​Meeting the needs and demands of your foster will be a huge investment of time and effort.
While you may be tempted to take on more fosters, you cannot save all of the animals in
need of a home. You will need to recognize what is feasible for you and your family. You
want to be fair to yourself as well as your current foster. It is better to save yourself from
burnout so that you will be available for the next animal in need once your foster has been
adopted. Please be sure to communicate with your AC regarding any concerns that you may
have throughout the process. Let someone know if you feel like you will be taking on too
much.

● Display Dependability and Punctuality

​Remember that you have become a part of our organization and represent us as well as the
animals that we rescue. It is important that you are punctual to all vet appointments, adoption
events and meetings with prospective adopters. We have worked very hard to forge
partnerships with our designated vets. They provide us with discounts as well as exceptional
care. We must nurture these relationships, as vetting costs are our biggest expenditure.
Further, we do not want to turn off a potential adopter by making them wait. We understand
that things do happen, but we also realize that a lack of dependability creates a negative
impact and reflects poorly on PetConnect Rescue.

● Keep Up with All of Your Pets’ Vaccinations

Prevention is the best cure! Despite the fact that our dogs have received standard
vaccinations, it is still possible that your foster dog will arrive with viruses and/or diseases. It
is best that you protect your current pets by ensuring that they are up-to-date on all of their
vaccines. At minimum, rabies, distemper, heartworm test and flea/ tick/ heartworm
preventative is required. Bordetella is highly recommended. This will help you feel secure
that they will not pick up an illness from your foster dog.

● Have Fun Being a Foster Parent

​While you will be putting in a lot of hard work, you can take the time to enjoy the company
and companionship of your foster dog. Rescue animals have tons of love to give and are
grateful to have a safe, comfortable and loving place to stay while they are awaiting their
forever homes. As they become more reassured and gain their confidence, they are free to
really be themselves. Enjoy your foster dog, and try not to adopt him/her.

GETTING YOUR HOME READY FOR YOUR NEW FOSTER DOG

In many ways, having a pet in the house is like having small children. There are many things
to consider so that you can safeguard your home, not only for your animal’s protection but
also for your own comfort and peace of mind.

● Store Human Food In “Out-of-Reach” Spots. ​Leaving food on countertops, coffee

tables or end tables may be too much of a temptation for your foster dog. Not only does
this inadvertently encourage undesirable behaviors, but it can also pose an imminent
danger to your foster. Many dogs have died after getting into foil-lined potato chip bags
and suffocating!

● Avoid Foods that are toxic to dogs. ​Please review and familiarize yourself with the list
of foods that are toxic for dogs. This list can be found in your foster’s adoption folder.

● Make Trash Cans Inaccessible. ​Be thoughtful and strategic about where you would
like to place your trash can. It’s a good idea to make your trash can inaccessible since
prior to coming to PetConnect, many dogs have turned to trash cans as a food source.

● Beware of poisonous plants. ​Many common houseplants are toxic to pets and can kill
them if consumed such as Daffodils, Azaleas, Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane), Lilies, and
holiday plants such as poinsettias. Be cautious of fungi and mushrooms. ​For additional
information, please visit: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-
control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants.

● Store Fragile or Valuable Items. ​Your foster dog will want to become familiar with your
home. Depending upon your foster’s energy level and personality, the dog may want to
run, jump and play. Your foster may accidentally knock things over, scratch surfaces or
use some of your things as unintended chew toys. The dog may also have household
accidents until he or she grows accustomed to your home and develops a routine.

● Protecting Furniture. ​As you may be aware, many dogs shed and may leave hair on
your bed clothes or upholstery. They may also leave behind oil from their coats or dirt
from being outside. You may want to decide which areas are “off limits” by using
childproof gates or use dog blankets, sheets, towels or furniture covers to protect sofas
and chairs.

SUPPLIES NEEDED TO FOSTER

There are some basic care items that you will need to acquire before you begin
fostering. If you currently have pets, you may already have some of these items at
home. If not, PetConnect Rescue will provide some of these supplies to you. All other
 items will be your responsibility to obtain for your new foster dog.

PetConnect Rescue will see to it that you have the following items to get started:

● Leash – ​NO RETRACTABLE LEASHES AT ANY TIME.

● Martingale Collar or Harness

● IDtag

● Adoption Folder with vet records –​this goes to the adopter when the dog is adopted
● If available, we have donated crates for fosters to borrow

You will need to provide:

● Dog food as well as a food and water bowl– **Please read the feeding tips below for a
recommended diet. Some dogs will be on a special or prescription diet as per their vet’s
recommendation. Please be sure that you make yourself aware of any specific dietary
needs.**

● Dog walking and socialization

● Dog waste bags, puppy pads, and other related supplies

● Nature’s Miracle or other enzymatic cleaner (for accidents in the house)

● Snacks and Training Reward Treats

● Toys – **Please be conscious of your foster dog’s need to chew on an appropriate item.
Also, be sure to monitor your foster’s toys for parts that could be swallowed as they may
present a choking hazard or another medical emergency.

● Grooming supplies—brush, shampoo, grooming wipes, nail clippers

● Old rags and towels

● Dog bed and/or blankets

**Please keep a record of your expenditures and we can give you an in-kind donation
receipt at the end of the year.
 FOSTER GUIDELINES:

1. Upon arrival, your new foster dog has had a very busy and confusing 24 hours. Many
have traveled between 7 and 15 hours. They may be stressed, depressed, scared and
withdrawn or have a lack of appetite. If there is no vomiting or diarrhea, there is no need
to be alarmed for the first few days. Please inform the Adoption Coordinator
immediately if your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms.

2. Your foster dog will need space and time for the first few days. Please do not introduce
them to pet stores, dog parks or the entire neighborhood for at least the first 72 hours.

3. Please keep your foster dog leashed at all times with a PCR ID tag on their collar. Off
leash play is for secured fenced yards and dog parks ONLY.

4. If you have any concerns about the health of your foster dog, please contact your
foster’s Adoption Coordinator right away. ​YOUR FOSTER’S ADOPTION
COORDINATOR MUST AUTHORIZE ALL VET APPOINTMENTS.

5. If preventative medicines are given to you, please write the dates they are given and
applied in the Vetting Summary Sheet located in your foster’s folder.
Heartguard/Interceptor is a heartworm preventative pill given orally monthly, and
Frontline is a topical application placed between the shoulder blades for flea/ tick
prevention.

6. Slowly Introduce Your Foster to Your Family and Your Other Pets​.

● Don’t expect “one, big happy family” right away. Even though you may expect a
smooth transition, it takes a lot of adjusting for everyone involved, including you!
Avoid fights and undue stress by giving your foster and your own pets time and
space to get to know each at their own pace.

● Before introducing a dog into your pack, all toys, bones, rawhides and sometimes
even beds need to be put away to decrease possessiveness and subsequent
aggressive behaviors. The fewer items for the dogs to "claim", the better.

● When introducing dogs to one another, the first thing you need to do is keep the
existing pack inside and walk the new dog around the house and yard so that
he/she realizes your pups are there. After he/she checks it out, try to introduce
him/her to your own dogs outside, on leash, in a neutral location. If you own more
than one dog, bring the dogs out one-at-a-time to meet your foster dog. This will
help the dogs become accustomed to one another prior to your foster entering
 your dogs’ space. The new dog should be leashed to start, and then, if all is
going well, the leash can be dropped. Once everyone has said “hello”, a walk
with the pack is the next step. After the walk, they can all come inside together.

● Encourage your children to allow the dog time to acclimate. Let the foster dog
come to your child, and do not overwhelm the dog initially with too much
attention. Your foster must learn to trust everyone and find his/her place within
your family dynamic.

● Beds can be introduced within 48 hours and the other items within a few days to
a week, depending on how all is going. Food and bones should be given
separately for at least the first week.

7. Be Respectful of Other Household Pets. ​Unfortunately, if you have a cat, your foster dog
may decide to peruse the cat’s litter box for “snacks”. This can throw off your cat’s routine,
and your foster dog may become ill if litter is inadvertently ingested, particularly clumping
litter. Also, be respectful of your cat’s bowl. The dog will most likely want to finish off your
cat’s food to your kitty’s dismay. If you have another dog, the same will most likely hold true,
which could result in fights. Feed them separately. It may be best to feed your foster dog in
his or her crate when you first bring your foster home. This will help to prevent any fights.

8. ​HOUSE BREAKING TIPS: ​You can keep the new dog leashed inside for the first 10- 30
minutes or so, just to make sure he doesn't run off or urinate on anything. Every hour or so,
take the new dog to the exit door (always use the same one), then outside to the spot where
you want the dog to do his/her “business”. Take him/her to the same spot every time, and give
the command to “go potty” or whatever phrase you designate to initiate the behavior. If the dog
“goes”, reward him/her with treats and praise, then go directly back into the house. This is
potty time and not playtime. If you do this every hour for the first day, the dog will quickly
understand the routine. Puppies will need to be crated and will take more time.

Feeding Your Foster Dog:

Many new foster dogs arrive with diarrhea. They either develop it due to stress or a change in food.
The following method can be used as a preventive measure upon arrival. This is probably not necessary
in all cases but will not harm the dog with short-term use. This method can also be used as needed for
diarrhea, assuming the dog has no other medical issues.

1. Offer the dog a small meal consisting of ​one-part cottage cheese to two parts brown
rice (white is okay if brown is not on hand)​. You can substitute ​boiled chicken
 instead of the cottage cheese, but I find the cottage cheese to be much simpler. Most
dogs go crazy for this. You can serve it slightly warm to make it more palatable. If
dehydration is a concern, mix in a small amount of water. You can also add canned
pumpkin, which aids in digestion.

2. If this is well tolerated, you can offer several, small meals throughout the day. Start the
transition to regular food as soon as the stool is normal. IF, after 48 hours, the dog is
still experiencing diarrhea, contact your Adoption Coordinator.

3. Gradually begin to mix in a small amount of regular dog food. Over several meals,
increase the amount of regular food and decrease the cottage cheese/rice mixture until
the dog is eating only the regular food and is tolerating it well.

4. No table scraps or feeding from the table! This could cause unwanted side effects such
as weight gain, diarrhea, begging at the table, refusal to eat nutritionally formulated dog
food, etc. This starts a bad habit that can be hard to correct once established!

Adult dogs should be fed twice a day and puppies 3-4 times a day, depending on weight.
Skinny adult dogs may also be fed 3-4 times a day. Consult with your AC if you have questions
about the amount of food your foster dog should be receiving. If you have dogs of your own,
feed the dogs separately. Dogs should be able to eat in peace with no threat of the other
possibly invading their space.

Special note: ​Food Aggression with other dogs is a fairly common trait; however, food aggression
towards people is obviously not acceptable. If your foster dog is growling when you are near his food,
you need to inform your AC, who can offer tips on how to work on correcting this behavior.

HOW TO PREVENT ESCAPES

We know that no one sets out with the idea that they are going to lose their foster dog but
accidents do happen. Most escapes take place within the 1-2 weeks of a dog entering its new
living environment. This is when you are just becoming familiar with your foster’s behaviors
and how he or she reacts to situations. Your foster is also learning, is unsure and scared.
Please be very vigilant and very strategic! Below are some helpful hints that may save you
from experiencing what it is like to have a lost dog and spare you a long search:
 ● Crate your foster dog whenever you leave the house​. This will prevent the dog from
escaping when you are leaving or returning. Sometimes, dogs will charge the door and
bolt once it is opened.

● Be very careful not to leave any doors open ​– even for a split second when you step
outside! If you have children, warn them of the same, but remember, it is ultimately your
responsibility.

● Make sure that your foster dog's martingale collar is on AT ALL TIMES​, even
inside the house. This includes whenever or wherever they are being walked. For
outdoor activities, we recommend that your foster wears a snug fitting martingale,
no-slip collar. Even in the house, a dog can easily escape, and with no ID, they are very
hard to identify.

● Keep a leash ​(​NOT ​a retractable one) on your foster. Let the dog drag it as he or she
sniffs and plays in any fenced dog park until you are sure they will come when called
and won’t follow anyone else out the gate. For very skittish dogs, keep a leash on and
let him/her drag it while in the house until they become familiar with you.

Never leave your foster unattended in your yard – even if it is fenced in​. You’d be
amazed how quickly dogs can jump/climb a fence or even dig a hole that will give
them just enough room to squeeze under the fence.

LOST DOGS
Even if you are careful, accidents happen, and occasionally, dogs get lost. Don't panic!
However, remember that time is of the essence​. The sooner a search is organized and
implemented, the greater the chances will be that your foster dog can be found. Call your
Adoption Coordinator immediately and notify Mary Beth Champlin (Rescue Coordinator) who
will post on social media. Your AC will go over the​ Lost Dog Procedures​ with you and help
implement a plan.
However, what NOT to do when a dog escapes is just as important!
1. DO NOT chase after the dog. If your dog gets out of the front door, chasing him will
drive him further from your home. If you have dropped the dogs leash while out walking,
immediately sit down and speak in low tones, avoiding direct eye contact. Let the dog
come back to you.
2. Do not drive around calling the dog's name. The dog will likely not come to you.
3. If the dog is in “flight mode” or panicked, DO NOT attempt to catch the dog yourself if
you see it. You will likely scare the dog, and it will run again. Review “What to do if you
see a lost dog” in the ​Lost Dog Procedures
4. Do not wait hours to get started on the lost dog search protocols, thinking that the dog
will just make its way back home.
NON-URGENT MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS
First, contact your Adoption Coordinator. ​DO NOT GO TO THE VET WITHOUT PERMISSION​.
If you are unable to reach your AC, please call Mary Beth Champlin for instructions. If a visit is
deemed necessary, and it is a non-emergency issue, simply contact a PetConnect Rescue vet
partner to make an appointment. You are then responsible for taking the dog to the vet. If your
schedule does not permit, you will need to work with your Adoption Coordinator to find another
volunteer to help you out.

Advertising Your Foster for Adoption:

PetConnect Rescue will post your foster on our website, which automatically connects to many
pet-adoption search engines, but you can also help in many different ways! Work with your AC
to market your foster. Social media is an excellent medium; the two most popular are
Facebook and Instagram. PetConnect Rescue has its own Facebook and Instagram page,
however, feel free to post your foster on your personal pages for greater exposure. Some
people enjoy blogging. Videos are always a great way to show off your foster. Catch your
foster pet doing something that will really showcase his or her personality. When taking photos
for the website, natural outdoor light works best, and try to avoid flash photography. Have fun!

● Please note: ​There are some “off-limits” places for puppies. You should ​NOT ​take your
foster puppy to stores like PetSmart or Petco or let them play in dog parks. This is for
the puppy’s protection. As previously stated, puppies must also be crated or carried
when going to and from the vet, not allowing their paws to touch the floor. Special
precautions must be taken to keep the puppy safe and, most importantly, shield the
puppy from illness. Puppies have an underdeveloped immune system, even after
vaccination. Provided there are no underlying health concerns, they will acquire a fully
functioning one as they mature.

What Do I Want To Highlight About My Foster Dog?

Below is a list of information that you want to include in your discussion when writing or talking
to someone about your foster. The more detailed information you are able to provide, the
better able you will be to find the best forever home for your foster.

Is your foster good with other dogs, cats and/or children?

Is your foster food aggressive or have specific sensitivities?

Is your foster crate trained, housebroken or leash trained?

Is your foster timid in the public, around new people or animals, afraid of loud sounds, etc.?

Are there any health issues of which a future adopter should be aware?

What are some cute, interesting or unique aspects of your foster’s personality?

If there are any challenging behaviors, describe the training techniques you have implemented
to modify the behavior.

What commands does your dog understand? Does he or she know any clever “tricks”?

Adoption Events:
Fosters are strongly encouraged to attend as many adoption events as possible!
Adoption events are an essential aspect of rescue. These are the primary venues that give
potential adopters the chance to meet multiple dogs at one time or the specific dog that they
have honed in on. By having events in the public arena, you can also attract those individuals
who stumble upon the event by luck. They may soon turn into adopters. You may also recruit
other fosters to help us save more animals. You can educate the public on the need for rescue
and the plight of millions of abandoned animals. The individuals that you meet could become
donors, volunteers or host fundraising events. The possibilities are endless. ​If you cannot
attend ​but want a ride for your dog, you must tell your AC. If you are fostering a puppy, please
discuss your foster puppy’s attendance in advance with your Adoption Coordinator. Ensure
that your foster is wearing a collar with ID tags.

Please bring your adoption folder to the adoption event. This will be beneficial if a potential
adopter has questions regarding your foster. You will need to include current medical
information, particularly your foster’s vaccination history. We need it for liability as well, just in
case.

A listing of current adoption and community events can be found on our website:

http://www.petconnectrescue.org/news-events/events/

The following foster dogs ​should not go to adoption events​:

● Dogs without proper vaccinations and puppies with only one distemper vaccine
● Dogs on medication for kennel cough, upper respiratory illnesses, have diarrhea or
vomiting
● Dogs who are aggressive with other dogs
 ● Dogs who are extremely scared of people and/or public places
● Your own dog. Space can be very limited. We also want to make sure that potential
adopters are not confused as to which dogs need a home.

The following items ​should not be used or provided at adoption events​:

● Retractable leashes – Absolutely NOT. These types of leashes make it difficult to keep
your dog under control and could malfunction
● Any high-value treats such as marrow bones or rawhides or even toys – These may
inadvertently cause fights between dogs.

Fostering Puppies

Fostering puppies can be very fun and rewarding but it is also time consuming! Our
foster requirements for puppies are the same as our adoption requirements - you must
have a private yard for the puppies to go outside in and be home a majority of the work
day to help your puppies with housebreaking and socialization.

Rules for Puppies

● Puppies are usually fostered in groups of 2 or 3 at a time. This helps reduce a

puppy’s stress of moving from the shelter to a foster home.
● Sometimes PetConnect saves a single puppy and if that is the case, the single
puppy cannot be exposed to other puppies under 16 weeks old.
● Puppies need a private yard to go outside in that no unvaccinated dogs have
frequented within the previous 6-9 months. Distemper and Parvovirus are viruses
that can live in the ground for 6 months. They are spread through feces. Adult
dogs with these viruses do not always appear very sick. However, these viruses
can kill puppies.
● Thus puppies are not suitable for apartments or townhomes without a fenced
yard
● Puppies cannot go to dog parks, pet stores, or any place an unvaccinated dog
may have been within the last 6 months
● Puppies should be crated to go to the vet or carried in your arms. Do not let the
puppy touch the ground in the lobby area. Ask the vet which areas are safe to let
the puppy out of it’s crate.
● Litters of puppies should not be mixed together
● Puppies CAN be exposed to other vaccinated adult dogs that you know are
healthy (such as your personal dogs)
● Puppies need a distemper vaccine every 3 weeks until they are 16 weeks old.
● Puppies need to be dewormed every 10-14 days. Your AC will provide you with
the dewormer or work with you to pick up dewormer from a vet.
Puppy Supplies

● We recommend a dry puppy food kibble for puppies 6 weeks - 6 months old. Puppies
may need to be fed 3-4 times a day depending on their age and weight. Please consult
with your AC as to how much to feed your puppy.
● A crate is very necessary! A crate will help with housebreaking and keeping your puppy
out of trouble when you are unable to watch him or her
● A puppy pen can be very helpful when you are fostering more than one puppy
● Towels, pee-pads, newspaper and lots of toys!

APPLICATION AND ADOPTION PROCESS:

The following is a brief outline of our adoption process. It can be found on our website
under the “Adopt” tab.

1. If you would like to learn more about one of our rescue animals, please fill out our
short online application. Just click on the link to the appropriate form (dog or cat)
to access the application. Completing the online application is the first step and
will provide us with the initial information we need but does not obligate you in
any way.

2. An adoption coordinator will contact you, or you may call or email the coordinator
listed for more information. Please understand that we are a volunteer
organization– we will try to get back to you as soon as possible, usually within 24
hours.

3. If applicable, we’ll call your veterinarian to ensure that previous pets have been
spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and well cared for. For renters, we’ll check with
your landlord to ensure that dogs are permitted and that the dog that you’re
adopting wouldn’t violate any size or breed restrictions.

4. Once you have spoken to an adoption coordinator about the pet you are
interested in, and if you would like to continue with the adoption process,
arrangements will be made for you to meet the pet at his or her foster home.

● After you have met the dog or cat of your choice, your home visit will be scheduled. The
purpose of the home visit is to ensure that the rescue animal will be living in a safe
environment, as well as to support the adoption process. PetConnect reviews
applications in the order in which they are received. We focus on matching the right
animal to the right family to ensure successful adoptions. Our goal is to place these
wonderful pets into homes where they will be safe and loved forever. We require
adopters to meet our adoptable pets in person, and therefore give preference to
 applicants in the metro Washington, DC area but will consider out of area adopters on a
case-by-case basis.

Adoption Fees

PetConnect requires an adoption fee for all rescues. This fee helps cover the medical,
transport and foster expenses incurred in rescuing each animal. Our expenses for each rescue
almost always exceed our adoption fees.

● Dogs: $350
● Puppies (6 months and under): $375
● Senior Dogs: $250
● Cats: $150
● Intact puppies/kittens: Additional $100 spay/ neuter deposit

All PetConnect animals are spayed/neutered unless it is medically advisable to wait

because of age or health concerns. In this instance, PetConnect requests an additional
deposit of $100, which will be reimbursed, with proof of spay/neuter. All PetConnect
Rescue animals must be spayed or neutered to help stem the vast problem of
overpopulation. All PetConnect animals are given basic vaccinations appropriate for
their age.

New adopters MUST bring their own collar, leash, and ID tag​. We will not release a
dog to an adopter if they do not have an ID tag -- or at least their phone number written
on the collar. If a dog is going to escape or run away, the first 2 weeks are the most
dangerous time. If the adopter does not bring a collar/ tag they can buy the PetConnect
collar and tag for an additional $10.
Foster to Adopt
What if I want to adopt my PetConnect Rescue Foster? We would be thrilled to have
you give your PetConnect Rescue Foster a permanent home – with one exception.
There is a point during the adoption process where we have made a commitment to our
adopters that they will get a particular dog or cat. If that point has been reached with
your PetConnect Rescue Foster, (i.e., if the home visit has been completed, they have
met the dog, and there has been a verbal agreement between the applicant and the
Adoption Coordinator that they will be able to adopt the dog) then it is too late. Any
other time, though, and the PetConnect Rescue animal can be yours to adopt!

FAQs:
​How long am I expected to foster?
​ e wish that we could provide you with a concrete answer; however, the amount of
W
time will vary and is dependent on many variables. One average, you may foster your
dog for a few weeks to a couple of months, depending upon the attributes of the dog,
 the number of applications we receive for your foster and, of course, the compatibility of
the applicants and living environment. Many aspects must be considered such as your
foster dog’s breed, age, temperament, health and the time of year, as well as how much
you have participated in “marketing” your foster dog and attending adoption events.

What if my foster does not seem happy at my home and is not “fitting in”?

We would never ask you to continue fostering a dog that is not working out in your home. This
is neither beneficial to your foster nor is it fair to your family and other pets. However, unless
the dog presents an immediate risk of injury to you, your family or your pets, finding a new
foster may take a little bit of time. Please remember that we are predominantly a volunteer
based organization.

What if I have to go out of town when I have a PetConnect Rescue Foster?

We can help! Let us know of your plans as early as possible, and we will find a temporary
foster for your PetConnect Rescue cat or dog!

What if I cannot foster all the time?

You can still help the PetConnect Rescue Animals! When fosters go out of town, we need
people who can foster temporarily to give that pup or cat a place to stay!

What if I don’t like a prospective adopter?

This is where communication is absolutely critical. If you have reservation about a potential
adopter and notice any “red flags”, please openly share your feelings and insights with your
Adoption Coordinator. We want to ensure an appropriate, safe and loving match. For the well-
being of your foster, we also want to avoid the dog being returned, if it can be easily avoided.
You will get to know your foster intimately and will know what kinds of things will be necessary
to your foster happy and well. It is easier for everyone involved to address any issues early on
in the process. You don’t want to second guess yourself and wish that you had spoken up.

Can I take my dog to the dog park or hiking?

Yes; however, we do recommend that you get to know your foster dog before taking on a new
adventure. You need to know with some certainty how your foster will react in different
environments. It is best to start off slow and simple, like a walk in your neighborhood. Your
foster dog should ​always have an ID tag ​with our information on it. Going to the dog park
before you are sure if your dog is responsive to you or you can control your foster may result in
a fight. This could be catastrophic for your or someone else’s dog, depending upon the
outcome. Never take your dog off-leash unless you are in a fully fenced, secure area with no
escape routes. Be aware that some dogs like to climb or jump fences or are very efficient
diggers. ​Never leave your foster dog in a fenced area unattended and assume he or she will
remain inside the fenced area. ​When you think your foster dog is ready to go off-leash, we
suggest that you drop the leash and let your foster drag it rather than take it off completely until
you really get to know your foster. Please note this only applies to dogs 6 months and older.
Puppies should stay in your private yard to prevent them from picking up viruses.

Do I have to use the crate for my foster dog?

It is recommended that you crate train your foster and use it regularly. You may need the crate
for safe transport to and from the vet for dogs that may try to escape or those who do not travel
well in the car. It is best if your foster is accustomed to it. This is not only a good attribute to
use to “market” your foster to potential adopters, but it can benefit you, your house and your
foster. We cannot guarantee that a dog is housebroken, won’t chew your items, hurt
him/herself when unattended or escape when you open the door to your house. The safest
way to protect your home and the dog is to use the crate. ​PetConnect Rescue cannot be
held responsible for damage done by a dog left unattended and uncrated. We also
cannot pay any vet bills incurred if your own pet is injured by an uncrated and
unattended PetConnect Rescue foster dog. ​As time progresses, you may need to rely on
the crate less and less as you get to know your foster and his/her behaviors are more
predictable. As with all things, start off slowly! See how your foster does in intervals.
Remember, on the flip side, your foster should not live in the crate. The crate should be used
during specific times. Any soiled crates must be disinfected immediately for proper hygiene,
and you should check to see if your foster needs a bath.

What if my pet gets sick from my foster pet?

This is why we strongly encourage you to keep all of your pets current with their vaccinations
and on a flea and tick preventative. We do our best to make sure we inform our fosters of any
potential illnesses, medical issues or infestations. In order to prevent your pet from getting
intestinal worms (which are passed through the dog’s stool), clean up all fecal matter
immediately and dispose of it properly. If your dog is fully vaccinated and you follow the above
protocol, but your own pet still contracts an ailment from your foster dog, contact your foster's
Adoption Coordinator immediately for instructions.

Can I rename my foster dog?

In some cases, dogs may have had their name for years, while others are renamed by the
shelter or your foster’s PetConnect Rescue Adoption Coordinator. It can be confusing for your
foster when you continue to change his or her name. Additionally, for our internal tracking
purposes, we prefer to stick to the name that we have given the animal. At any given time, we
also try to avoid having dogs with the same name. You can imagine how difficult it would be to
try to figure out who a dog is when we receive the veterinary bills and need to seek the
approval of the appropriate Adoption Coordinator. When taking your foster to the vet, we also
ask that you give the vet’s office your foster’s name as well as your last name. This makes
pinpointing the correct dog much easier.

Thank you again for becoming a PetConnect Rescue foster. ​We

hope that you and your foster dog will enjoy the journey!