Fostering: A Bridge to a Better Life

Arctic Rescue exists because of foster homes. We are entirely volunteer-run and fully foster-based. We don’t have kennels or a facility — when we rescue a dog, that dog goes straight into someone’s home. It’s a simple, heavy truth: Without foster homes, we cannot rescue dogs — period. Without foster families, we cannot pull dogs from shelters. We cannot say yes. We cannot save lives.

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When we pull a dog from a crowded shelter, they often arrive confused, tired, and overwhelmed. A foster home provides more than just a roof; it provides a sanctuary. It is a place for dogs to decompress, to rebuild trust and learn what it means to be part of a family, and a safe harbor while they prepare for their forever home. Rescue dogs are able to show us who they really are within the safety of a foster home — information that helps us place them in the right forever home. 

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It takes a special kind of person to open their home and heart to a rescue dog during this transition, and we are endlessly grateful to those who do.

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Thank you for being that person. By opening your heart and your front door, you aren't just "babysitting a dog" — you are saving a life. 

 

Yard & Living Space

A fenced yard is not required to foster or adopt through Arctic Rescue. What is required is a commitment to daily exercise, enrichment, and structure appropriate for your foster dog. We simply ask that you’re able to meet your foster dog’s physical and mental needs each day, based on their age, breed, personality, and individual needs.

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Many of our dogs thrive in apartments, condos, and homes. With regular walks, training, play, and structured activity, they can live happy, balanced lives in a variety of environments. Huskies and other active breeds need engagement — not just square footage. 

 

Financial Expectations

Fostering should be about care — not cost.

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While we are entirely volunteer-run and operate with limited funds, foster families are not required to pay for the dogs in their care. Donations are appreciated but never expected or required. 

 

Arctic Rescue can provide dog food, crates (as available), and coverage of approved veterinary and medical expenses when coordinated with the rescue.

 

Our goal is to remove financial barriers so you can focus on what matters most: providing a safe, stable home for your foster dog. You provide the home — we provide the support. 

 

Time, Training & Commitment

Every rescue dog comes with their own individual story and needs time to adjust. Even in the best match, a new environment requires patience, consistency, and clear structure.

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While we work carefully to make strong matches, foster dogs need time, patience, and consistency as they learn new routines and expectations. Decompression is not optional — it’s essential.

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We ask foster families to:

• Commit to and invest time in decompression, structure, and positive training

• Facilitate slow, positive introductions with resident pets

• Use separation when needed to protect the safety and well-being of all animals

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Fostering isn’t about perfection. It’s about commitment, flexibility, and giving a dog the stability they need to succeed. Our goal is a healthy, sustainable living situation for both the dog and your household. We’re committed to supporting you — but successful fostering depends on consistency and follow-through to make that happen.

 

What We Provide

When you foster with Arctic Rescue, you are not doing this alone. We view fostering as a crucial partnership, and we are committed to fully supporting you with the resources and guidance you need so can focus on what matters most: helping dogs transition safely and successfully into their forever homes.

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Supplies & Essentials

Upon request and as available, we provide food, crates, and basic supplies to support daily care. Our goal is to remove practical barriers so you can focus on your foster dog’s well-being.

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Veterinary & Medical Care

We cover approved veterinary and medical expenses, including routine care, emergencies, medications, and necessary treatments. We also coordinate directly with our veterinary partners.

All non-emergency care must be approved with the rescue in advance.

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Support & Guidance

As an Arctic Rescue foster, you are never on their own. We provide ongoing support, behavioral guidance, help with decompression plans, and assistance introducing foster dogs to resident pets. From intake to adoption day, we stay connected.

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Adoption & Placement

Arctic Rescue handles applications, screening, meet-and-greets, contracts, and placement logistics. You provide insight into the dog’s personality and progress — and together, we find the right match.

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Our fosters play a critical role in preparing dogs for adoption, and we work closely with you every step of the way.

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Foster Application