Foster Puppy Parent FAQ

HOW OLD ARE THE PUPPIES WHEN THEY GO INTO FOSTER CARE AND HOW LONG DO THEY STAY WITH THE FOSTER PARENT(S)?

The puppies are ideally placed when they are 7 weeks old, and depending on development, usually stay in the foster home until they’re 16-24 months old.

IF I DON’T FEEL ABLE TO COMMIT TO RAISING A PUPPY FOR 16 - 24 MONTHS, IS THERE ANY OTHER WAY I COULD HELP?

Yes, We are also looking for short-term Foster Puppy Parents who will keep a puppy for 8-10 weeks, begin the training and housebreak the puppy for another Foster Parent.

IS IT NECESSARY TO HAVE PREVIOUS DOG TRAINING EXPERIENCE TO BE A FOSTER PUPPY PARENT?

MUST I ATTEND CLASSES WITH THE PUPPY?

Yes. It is required that you and your Foster Puppy attend weekly training classes, instructed by Carolina Canines For Service Training Staff, where you will learn our techniques of properly raising and training your Foster Puppy.

WHAT DO I DO WITH THE PUPPY IF I NEED TO GO OUT OF TOWN?

Foster Puppy Parents or someone who has been a Foster Puppy Parent frequently trade off and supervise each other’s puppies as needed. The Foster Puppy will benefit from being included in travel plans whenever possible.

CAN I HAVE OTHER ANIMALS IN MY HOME AND STILL BE A FOSTER PUPPY PARENT?

IS THERE A TAX BREAK IF I RAISE A PUPPY?

Carolina Canines For Service, Inc. is established as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. All expenses incurred by the Foster Family (dog food, vet expenses, mileage, etc.) are considered a charitable donation to Carolina Canines For Service and is tax deductible.

WHAT DO YOU FEED THE PUPPIES?

The puppies eat a specified brand of high-quality dry dog food specifically chosen to meet their needs. The puppies NEVER receive table scraps.

WHO PAYS FOR THE FOOD?

HOW OFTEN DO TRAINING CLASSES TAKE PLACE, WHERE ARE THEY HELD, WHEN AND HOW LONG IS EACH CLASS?

Initially classes are weekly, then after several months, semi-monthly. Training classes are held on Mondays from 7:30-8:30pm at UNCW in Wilmington, NC.

WHAT HAPPENS IF THE PUPPY IS DISQUALIFIED FROM THE PROGRAM?

The Foster Puppy Parents are given priority at keeping the puppy unless it was donated by a breeder. In the latter case, the breeder get the first right of refusal.

THERE IS NO ONE HOME DURING THE DAY. CAN I STILL BE A FOSTER PUPPY PARENT?

Yes. In this instance we suggest you apply for an older puppy (4-5 months). Foster puppies are kenneled when unsupervised.

ISN’T IT TIME-CONSUMING TO TRAIN A PUPPY?

Not really. You will be taught how to work on-going training activities into your daily schedule and it will become a habit.

SHOULD THE PUPPY GO ANYWHERE WITH ME BESIDE TO THE VET AND TO CLASS?

Yes. The puppy needs to have extensive socialization. North Carolina Statute (Chapter 168, Article I) grants full accessibility to service dogs in training as well as certified service dogs.

DON’T YOU GET “ATTACHED” TO THE PUPPY OR FEEL YOU COULD NEVER RAISE ONE AND GIVE IT UP?

Yes, and sure you can. You will have many opportunities to meet recipients of Carolina Canines and understand just how much their service dog means to them. Without Foster Puppy Parents this unique partnership could never exist.

If you are interested in becoming a foster puppy parent with Carolina Canines and live in the Wilmington, NC vicinity click here to view and print an application and foster parent agreement.