Question

If I cannot provide a stable home for a dog that I own, can I ask someone to temporarily house the dog? Is there a written agreement that needs to be made to ensure I will get the dog back? How should I go about getting temporary placement for my dog until I can provide a stable home for him?

Answer

Fostering or boarding an animal is common and done for a variety of reasons. Sometimes boarding/fostering is with a boarding business, a veterinarian, a shelter, rescue organization, or an individual. There should be a written and signed agreement that very clearly specifies the terms, such as length of time the animal will be boarded/fostered, fees to be paid, and care to be provided, such as food, veterinary care, exercise, socialization, etc. It is important to carefully check out where the animal will be living. It is also important for people who leave their animal for boarding or fostering to abide by the terms of the agreement, including paying fees and retrieving the animal on time. Otherwise, rights to the animal may be jeopardized. I hope this all works out for your dog.

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