Fostering FAQ
How do I become a foster parent?
To begin with, fill out a foster application. Once CGA receives your foster application, a Foster Home Visit Volunteer will schedule a home visit with you. During the home visit, the Volunteer will go over care of your foster greyhound, crating, behavioral issues, and what to look out for medically. You will be assigned a Foster Coordinator to work along with. Your Foster Coordinator will be your main point of contact for all questions.
I've never had a greyhound before. Can I still foster if I don't have experience with them?
Absolutely. It helps to have some experience with dogs in general, but having your own greyhound or experience with the breed is not required.
Can I become a foster parent if I have cats?
Yes. Many greyhounds do well with cats. We cat test the dogs before placing them in foster homes, so if you have cat(s) you will only be given a cat-safe dogs to foster.
What do I do with my foster dog if I have to go out of town or on vacation?
Communication with your Foster Coordinator is key. You just need to let your Foster Coordinator know in advance to arrange another CGA foster parent to sub-foster for you.
Can we foster if we have other breeds of dogs?
Yes. Most greyhounds get along fine with other breeds of dogs, big and small.
Do I have to own my home to foster greyhounds?
No, but you must have permission from your property manager to have pets. CGA does not pay for any additional pet deposits or rent increases.
How long are dogs usually in foster care?
Normally, a dog can be in foster care anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months, with 3-4 weeks being typical. Some foster greyhounds require special veterinary care and that may result in being in the foster home for a longer period of time.
How old are the foster dogs?
The dogs mostly range in age from 1-5 years old, with 2-3 being typical. Occasionally, older dogs come in as relinquishments or broods (dogs who were used for breeding after finishing their racing careers).
Do I have to have big house with a big yard?
No. Some greyhounds are fine living in apartments, townhomes and condos. Please understand that this requires additional effort on your part to make sure they are properly exercised and learn stairs quickly.
I've heard greyhounds are really active and need a lot of exercise. Is that true?
No. Greyhounds have shorts bursts of energy and then rest a lot. They are often referred to as “40 mph couch potatoes”. Taking them out on walks several times a week should be adequate exercise; more exercise will be needed for greyhounds who don’t have access to a yard
What if I want to keep my foster dog? Can I adopt him/her?
Yes. Many foster families fall in love with one (or 2 or 3) of their foster dogs and end up adopting them. If you decide to adopt your foster dog, you must let your Foster Coordinator know right away. You t need to fill out an adoption application and pay the adoption fee. We hope that you'll continue to foster other dogs after adopting one, and many people do.
What if my foster dog gets sick or injured?
CGA provides veterinary care for the greyhounds in foster care. Call the CGA Foster Vet Coordinator who will schedule an appointment for you at an approved vet clinic, in your area if possible.
What if my foster dog gets lost?
Call the CGA Lost Dog Pager immediately. Although you're required to keep your foster dog leashed any time it's not inside or a fenced area outside, unfortunately they do sometimes get loose due to gates being left open, digging under fences, etc. CGA has a pager that is manned 24/7 and we react very quickly to locating lost dogs.