CARE OF YOUR FOSTER DOG
Feeding. Much has been written about canine nutrition, and there is plenty of information about this subject in printed form and on the Internet. BRBCR recommends using a high quality, high protein kibble, but otherwise does not have rules about what kind of diet or brand of food you use. The dog should have access to fresh, clean water at all times.
Because your own dog(s) may be protective of their food bowls, feed your new foster dog in a separate room, crate, or area, and SUPERVISE. Always reinforce the pecking order at feeding time: the top dog should be fed first, then the second, and so on.
Exercise. It’s good for the dog to run and explore in the yard, but do not leave a new foster dog in the yard unattended, even with a secure fence and even if you are in the house. Dogs in new environments do not know where they are and do not have a sense of “home.” They may well want to go back where they were and may be very creative escape artists. Chains and tie outs are unacceptable.
Take your foster dog for walks and teach him or her to stroll calmly on a leash. And teach your foster dog to play! This is something he or she may have never done. You may want to experiment with different kinds of toys to see which ones the dog likes.
Grooming. Care for the dog’s coat periodically with a brush, grooming mitt or glove. Check frequently for cuts, scrapes, fleas, and ticks. Provide necessary treatment (flea spray or flea combing, Neosporin, Silvadene, etc.) Trim nails and bathe as necessary.
