How do I get involved with fostering a TVGRR dog?
Fill out an application online at TVGRR Application. There is a question on the application that asks if you are interested in adoption or foster. There is no application fee if you are interested in fostering a dog. NOTE: Fosters must be in the Knoxville area or within a 50 mile radius for convenience.

How long will the foster dog be in my care?
We ask you foster the dog until they are adopted. If circumstances change and you are no longer able to foster, contact TVGRR and we will make other arrangements for the dog.

May I choose which dog to foster?
YES, however, TVGRR may make suggestions as to which dog may be the best dog to foster, based on your application.

Where should I keep my foster dog?
All TVGRR dogs are to remain in a safe area at all times. The dog cannot be allowed to stay outside while you are away. If the dog is outside, they should always remain on a leash, even if you have a fenced yard. Dogs are really good at finding their way out of fences, so make sure you are always supervising the foster dog.

Will the foster dog be housebroken?
It depends on how much TVGRR knows about the dog prior to the dog coming into our program. Many times we know nothing about the dog, especially if the dog was found as a stray.

Where should the foster dog sleep?
This is up to you. Generally, the dog should be crated, however, some dogs don’t need to be crated. Keep in mind the dog shouldn’t be allowed to sleep on the bed or allowed on the furniture as many permanent homes don’t allow these types of behaviors.

Am I required to train the foster dog?
No, however, we would like to you spend some time with the dog teaching them some manners, such as sit, come, down and off. This is best for you, as the foster, it helps the foster dog learn proper behaviors and it gives the dog a better chance of being adopted.

I have small children. Does this stop me from fostering?
No, however, TVGRR, along with you, will figure out which dog is the best dog for you to foster. NOTE: SMALL CHILDREN SHOULD NEVER BE LEFT ALONE WITH A FOSTER DOG.

Will I become attached to my foster dog?
Maybe. Sometimes it is love at first sight, sometimes it may take a little longer to get the foster dog used to your home and routine. All of us are Foster Failures at some point! Meaning we adopt the dogs we foster!!

How much does it cost to foster a dog?
TVGRR requests you cover food expenses, any toys you may buy for the dog.

What about vet care for the foster dog?
TVGRR covers all vet expenses. The dog will generally be fully vaccinated, potentially spayed/neutered, current on flea and tick prevention. If the dog is heart-worm positive (HW+), TVGRR will cover the treatment. If you choose to foster a HW+ dog, TVGRR and the vet will provide specific directions regarding caring for a dog undergoing HW treatment.

What do I do in the event the dog has an emergency?
Contact TVGRR ASAP. If this is a life threatening emergency, take the dog to the Vet ER. Although a very rare event, sometimes this happens.

What if the dog does damage to my house or other items?
TVGRR is NOT responsible for any damage the dog may do while in your care. NOTE: A dog that receives plenty of attention and exercise is seldom destructive and less likely to be noisy. Make a practice of taking the dog for walks, playing games, and socialization.

How do I prevent the dog from doing any damage?
TVGRR suggests you use a crate or another way to confine the dog while you are not at home or are unable to watch the dog while you are busy at home.

How do I meet potential adopters for my foster dog?
An application coordinator will call or email you to let you know an approved applicant is interested in the foster dog. TVGRR requests you and the potential adopter meet in a neutral location, if possible, especially if the potential adopter already has a dog. You should be prepared to answer lots of questions about the dog regarding personality, house trained, good with other dogs, etc. The application coordinator will provide further instructions. You will not be responsible for doing a contract or accept the adoption fee, as that is the job of the application coordinator.

May I adopt my foster dog?
YES! As a foster parent, you have the first right of refusal. The same adoption fees and contract must be signed by you, as the adopter, as do all of our other adopters.