Foster
K9 Coop is not a kennel. Our organization relies on a network of volunteers to offer temporary housing for rescue dogs awaiting adoption. These foster homes enable the dog to be treated as a family pet so they can socialize, build confidence, and develop good manners - helping ensure a smoother transition into their permanent homes.
K9 Coop remains financially responsible for all fostered dogs. This includes pre-approved veterinary care, spay/neuter procedures, microchipping, vaccinations, and any other necessary specialized medical care or training. When needed, K9 Coop also provides food from an approved distributor and assists with the cost of supplies such as crates, collars, toys, and other essential items to support the foster and dog during their time in care.
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To learn more about fostering, please Fostering FAQ.​
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Fostering FAQ
What are the requirements to foster?
In order to become a foster family with K9 Coop you will need to satisfy the following requirements:
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Must be over 18 to apply.
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Complete a Foster Family Application
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Pass a background check. This background check includes verifying with your veterinarian that all pets in your home are healthy and up to date on vaccinations
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Complete a home visit by a foster-care coordinator
Foster families should reside within one hour from Atlanta. Special considerations and exception are considered.
What are the responsibilities of the foster parent?
Foster families are responsible for providing a loving, stable environment. These responsibilities may include
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Basic Training: house breaking, walking on a leash, crate training, etc.
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Socialization: interactions with other people, children, pets, going for outings and car rides
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Adoption Events: we encourage our foster families to attend or provide transportation of the dog to our adoption events.
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Meet & Greets: participating or transporting the dog to meet prospective adopters.
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Providing Behavioral Information: Notifying us of the behavioral issues and describing the general personality of the dog will help us best match the dog to the appropriate home.
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Medical Care
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Promoting and Advocating for the Dog: this may include taking photographs and videos of the foster dog or providing short biographies of the dog describing who they are, their personality, and endearing traits.
While food is not required, we do request that foster families provide the dog with the food of their choice. Any expenditures made for the dog are tax deductible.
What does K9 Coop provide?
K9 Coop will provide a leash, collar, crate, and medicine or preventative treatments. All pre-approved veterinary appointments are paid for by K9 Coop. If the foster family needs additional assistance, such as being supplied with food, K9 Coop can arrange extended assistance. All expenses for your foster are tax deductible.
How long will I need to foster the dog(s) for?
The duration of foster care can range from one day to several weeks. Generally, most dogs will find permanent placement within two to four weeks.
What types of dogs need foster homes?
​As a foster-based rescue, all of our dogs rely on foster homes for care while they prepare for adoption. The dogs who benefit most from foster care include:
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Injured or ill dogs recovering from medical treatment
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Well-adjusted dogs beginning to experience kennel stress
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Dogs who need emotional rehabilitation, patience, and a safe home to rebuild trust after abandonment or mistreatment
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Pregnant or nursing dogs who need a stable environment until puppies are weaned and ready for adoption
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Every foster situation is unique, and we work closely with our foster families to ensure the right fit and provide support throughout the process.
Can I foster to adopt?
Yes. Foster-to-adopt may be an option in certain situations. This arrangement allows a foster to care for a dog with the intention of adopting, while giving both the dog and the adopter time to ensure it’s the right fit.
That said, foster-to-adopt placements are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and depend on the dog’s needs, medical status, behavior, and overall placement priorities. During a foster-to-adopt period, the dog remains under the rescue’s care and policies until the adoption is finalized.
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Our goal is always to make decisions that are in the best interest of each dog while also supporting fosters in finding the right long-term match. If you’re interested in fostering to adopt, please let us know in your application so we can discuss whether it’s a good fit.
What types of issues can come up with a foster dog?
Every foster dog is different. Some may need time to adjust to a new environment, learn basic house manners, or work through anxiety related to past experiences. Others may be recovering from medical treatment or need help with medications, crate training, or leash skills. That said, many foster dogs are already well-adjusted, affectionate, and easygoing—they simply need a safe, temporary place to stay while waiting for their forever home.
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Not every foster dog will experience challenges, and our rescue works closely with foster families to provide guidance, resources, and ongoing support. We also strive to match each dog with a foster home that fits their experience level and comfort.
Fostering isn’t about perfection - it’s about providing stability, care, and a chance to thrive.
How can I help my foster dog get adopted?
Foster families play a critical role in helping dogs find their forever homes. Getting to know your foster dog’s personality, routines, and preferences allows us to share accurate, compelling information with potential adopters. Photos, short videos, and honest notes about how your foster dog behaves in a home environment are incredibly helpful.
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Basic training, consistent routines, and positive reinforcement can make a big difference. Sharing your foster dog on social media - by posting updates, photos, and videos, and tagging the rescue—greatly increases visibility and helps the right adopter find them. Attending adoption events when possible also helps introduce your foster dog to potential families.
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Most importantly, providing a loving, stable environment allows your foster dog to relax, build confidence, and show their true personality - often the most powerful factor in helping them get adopted.
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