The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth

Foster Volunteers will support The Humane Society of Kitchener-Waterloo & Stratford Perth and our adoption dogs by providing care within their own home, while the dogs are waiting to find their forever homes.

Assignment Responsibilities:

• Providing daily care to an assigned foster dog in ones private home, including: feeding, walking, house training, behavior training.
• Transporting dogs to the centre for medical appointments and adoption appointments.
• Picking up supplies or medications from the centre, transporting to private home.
• Communicating with the Foster Coordinator ongoing with updates and photos to be used for adoption promotion, through email communication.

Other Requirements & Assignment Boundaries:

• Must be age 18 years of age or older.
• Must reside in the Kitchener-Waterloo or Stratford Perth area.
• Existing animals in their home are spayed/ neutered, up to date on vaccines, and have current license tag(s) for canines.
• Volunteers, if renting, must show landlord consent for animals in the home.
• Volunteers must have a separate area for fosters.
• Volunteers must have access to transportation for vet appointments/ medical emergencies, and supply or medication pick-ups.
• Must adhere to the policies outlined in the Foster Waiver form.
• Follow all Policies & Procedures as outlined by the Volunteer Manager or Foster Coordinator.
• Volunteers must also have a working email address and telephone.

Qualifications:

• Must have experience with medium and large size dogs.
• Must be able to walk dogs weighing 40-80 lbs.
• Must be able to bend, stoop and walk independently.
• Ability to lift items up to 40 lbs.
• Must be comfortable handling the following behaviors: jumping up, mouthing, barking, pulling on a leash and house training.
• Ability to cope with potential emotionally stressful situations.
• Patient, calm demeanor and an interest in working with dogs who have behavior challenges.

Training & Supervision:

• Volunteers will complete a training presentation and quiz.
• Volunteers will complete one on one in-person training with Canine Specialist on-site. 
• Ongoing training as needed.
• Volunteers will communicate directly with the Foster Coordinator ongoing.

Time Commitment: 6 months.  Must be available to start immediately.