Join the Pack —Volunteer
|
In addition to donations, the talents of our compassionate and generous volunteers help keep our doors open. Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age to volunteer without a parent or guardian. Under 16 may volunteer with a parent on-site who is also a volunteer.
There are several areas in which we are always in need of volunteers. To Volunteer for any of these positions please fill out the online volunteer application, or come to one of our events and fill one out in person! Adoption HelpWe hold off-site adoptions several weekends a month and we are always in need of extra sets of hands to make sure all of our adoptable animals are taken care of. We need help setting up our adoption tent and tables as well as taking them down at the end of the day. We also need help making sure all "accidents" are cleaned up as needed, and to take our dogs for walks so they can have their bathroom breaks away from the festivities.
FundraisingWe rely on donations to keep our programs going and there's no such thing as "too much money!" The more money we have, the more animals we can save! If you've got some great ideas, enjoy planning and speaking to people, you may be a great fit to help with funds raising!
|
|
Fostering
What does fostering a pet involve?
Fostering a pet is a significant responsibility, so ensure you’re prepared for it. When you foster, you’ll welcome a homeless dog into your home, providing them with love, care, and attention. This includes taking them to the vet, administering medication, and attending adoption events. You might even get to meet potential adopters!
Fostering an animal, even puppies, is a substantial commitment, so please ask lots of questions and be genuinely committed before applying.
Sometimes, animals that come into our care have gained significant online attention and a large following before even joining our foster program. *If you’re interested in adopting your foster, you’ll need to complete our adoption application and receive an approval as soon as the puppy/dog arrives at your home.
We invest considerable time working with our foster families to assist them in learning how to care for each animal. We provide them with educational resources and an open forum on Facebook where they can ask questions and seek support from other experienced foster families.
Our volunteer officers possess over 45 years of combined experience in various veterinary fields, including shelter medicine, pediatric critical care, behavioral training, veterinary technician, and professional grooming. Our program caters to individuals who are dedicated and share similar values.
Fostering an animal is a serious commitment, so Please ensure you’re fully prepared for it. You should be committed to fostering the dog until they find a loving home. The minimum commitment is 21 days (the typical duration of dogs in our program before adoption), but the maximum commitment could extend to 6 months or even longer.
Please consider this commitment when applying.
Fostering Handbook
Why do adoption groups need foster homes?
There are many reasons a pet might need foster care. Some of the most common include:
Why should I foster?
Fostering an animal is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have (other than adopting, of course). By taking an animal in need temporarily into your home you’re:
How do I sign up to foster?
Fostering a pet is a significant responsibility, so ensure you’re prepared for it. When you foster, you’ll welcome a homeless dog into your home, providing them with love, care, and attention. This includes taking them to the vet, administering medication, and attending adoption events. You might even get to meet potential adopters!
Fostering an animal, even puppies, is a substantial commitment, so please ask lots of questions and be genuinely committed before applying.
Sometimes, animals that come into our care have gained significant online attention and a large following before even joining our foster program. *If you’re interested in adopting your foster, you’ll need to complete our adoption application and receive an approval as soon as the puppy/dog arrives at your home.
We invest considerable time working with our foster families to assist them in learning how to care for each animal. We provide them with educational resources and an open forum on Facebook where they can ask questions and seek support from other experienced foster families.
Our volunteer officers possess over 45 years of combined experience in various veterinary fields, including shelter medicine, pediatric critical care, behavioral training, veterinary technician, and professional grooming. Our program caters to individuals who are dedicated and share similar values.
Fostering an animal is a serious commitment, so Please ensure you’re fully prepared for it. You should be committed to fostering the dog until they find a loving home. The minimum commitment is 21 days (the typical duration of dogs in our program before adoption), but the maximum commitment could extend to 6 months or even longer.
Please consider this commitment when applying.
Fostering Handbook
Why do adoption groups need foster homes?
There are many reasons a pet might need foster care. Some of the most common include:
- A rescue group doesn’t have a physical shelter and depends on foster homes to care for dogs until suitable homes are found.
- A puppy is too young to be adopted and needs a safe place to stay until he or she is old enough to go to a forever home.
- An animal is recovering from surgery, illness or injury and needs a safe place to recuperate.
- An animal is showing signs of stress such as pacing or hiding in the shelter.
- An animal has not lived in a home before or has not had much contact with people and needs to be socialized.
- The shelter is running out of room for adoptable dogs.
Why should I foster?
Fostering an animal is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have (other than adopting, of course). By taking an animal in need temporarily into your home you’re:
- freeing up a spot so the shelter or rescue can take in another animal.
- giving your foster pet the time he needs to be ready for adoption.
- helping the shelter or rescue learn more about the dog so (s)he can end up in the best home possible.
- socializing the animal to a home environment and possibly getting him used to being around other pets and different types of people.
How do I sign up to foster?
- Complete a foster parent application and subsequent home visit
- Agree to and sign the foster waiver
- Please note that this is a significant commitment and a challenging responsibility. Those that wish to volunteer are expected to provide a safe and nurturing home with a minimum commitment of 3 weeks.
Important Rules and Reminders Regarding Your Foster Pet
Foster parents MUST abide by the following rules:
- No off-leash park visits or interacting with other foster pets from different foster homes for the first ten days.
- All new incoming animals must be quarantined for a minimum of ten days.
- During said time they will have no nose to nose or bottom to nose contact with any other animal and will potty in a secure play yard, pen or small area being used just for the purpose of quarantine (concrete – linoleum, tile) NEVER PLACE PUPPIES IN SOIL OR GRASS. Any fecal matter will be picked up and the area in which it sat either bleached or properly disinfected after each bowel movement. No exceptions.
- Foster dogs must be on leash at all times when outdoors unless in your own secured fenced yard.
- Any aggressive behavior - to humans or other animals -must be immediately communicated to the RRR of South LA
- All vet visits must be pre-approved by calling one of the RRR of South LA officers. Vet visits will not be reimbursed without pre-approval from an RRR of South LA officer.
- We recommend using, and will only reimburse with prior approval:
- Aimee P. Graham, DVM: 833-396-7446
- Animal Care Center of Gonzales: 225-644-4411
- Dodge City Veterinary Hospital: 225-664-6441
- Eunice Animal Hospital: 337-457-2560
- Galvez Veterinary Clinic: 225-622-6443
- Hope Veterinary Clinic: 225-271-8051
- O'Neil Lane Animal Hospital: 225-273-0579
- Siegen Lane Animal Clinic: 225-769-4892
- The Spay Spa: 225-627-5772
- Walker Animal Hospital: 225-665-7277
- For emergency veterinary care
- Sherwood South (for Emergencies): 225-293-6440
- Foster parents must respond within 24 hours to communications from RRR of South LA officers.
Advertising
We need help creating flyers, hanging flyers, passing flyers out, posting to facebook and other sites to get the word out about what we do and where we'll be.
Social Media
Social Media is a big part of how we get the word out about what we do and where we are and we could use your help to stay on top of ours.
Community Service
We do have community service opportunities if you let us know ahead of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before reviewing these FAQs, please remember that this is a fully volunteer-run program. The officers who handle vet visits, supplies, rescue coordination, and communication all have families and full-time jobs outside of this organization.
Please be considerate when making requests—allow plenty of notice, be patient, and keep communication open.
1. How long are pets in foster homes?
It depends on the pet and their circumstances. The average stay is about two months, though some may stay as little as two weeks. Pets recovering from injury, certain breeds, or seniors may require a much longer stay.
2. Can I or a family member adopt my foster pet?
Yes! As long as the adopter meets all adoption requirements.
3. What is the process for adopting a foster pet?
Potential adopters must first complete an adoption application (found on our adoption page). Once approved, they may schedule a meet-and-greet with the foster pet.
Final approval or denial is made by an RRR of South LA officer or Foster Coordinator, and all adoptions are approved at the sole discretion of the RRR of South LA.
Upon approval, the adopter pays the adoption fee and, if needed, schedules the spay/neuter appointment. The foster pet then goes to their forever home.
4. Why do I need to apply to adopt my foster? If I’m already an approved foster, shouldn’t I automatically be approved to adopt?
Not necessarily.
Being approved to foster an animal is very different from being approved to adopt one. Fostering and adopting involve distinct requirements, responsibilities, and expectations.
Home & Environment Requirements
Foster animals are often kept in controlled conditions—quarantined, crated, or leashed at all times. For that reason, a fenced yard isn’t always required for fostering.
However, adopted animals are given much more freedom. For their safety, all adoptive homes must have a secure, fully fenced yard so the animal can play and explore safely.
Care & Veterinary Standards
When fostering, your personal pets don’t necessarily need to be spayed/neutered or fully up to date on heartworm prevention and vaccinations. In those cases, foster placement may simply be limited (for example, you can’t foster an unaltered animal of the opposite sex).
For adoption, however, all pets in your home must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and on heartworm prevention. This demonstrates financial readiness and responsible pet ownership—qualities that give every adopted pet the best chance at a happy, healthy forever home.
In short, fostering and adopting are two wonderful but distinct ways to help animals. Our goal is to make sure every adoption is a lasting success for both the animal and their new family.
5. How are foster pets promoted?
Foster pets are listed on Petfinder.com and featured on the RRR of South LA Facebook page. They’re also promoted at adoption events. Foster parents are encouraged to help by sharing photos and information with family, friends, and on social media. Even walks with an “Adopt Me” bandana help!
6. I live in an apartment—can I still foster?
Absolutely. Many pets thrive in smaller spaces with focused one-on-one care. Just be sure to choose a pet appropriate for your lifestyle, provide daily physical and mental enrichment, and have landlord approval.
7. What if I have children?
Fostering is a great family experience. Choose pets that fit your children’s ages and maturity levels. Children under 13 years old should never be left unsupervised with a foster pet. Teach them appropriate care, respect, and safety around animals.
8. I don’t have a yard or a fence—can I still foster dogs or puppies?
Yes! A yard is helpful but not required. Foster dogs may never be left unattended outdoors. RRR of South LA provides exercise pens (x-pens) for puppies and small dogs as needed.
9. Can I foster if I have my own pets?
Yes, but it always carries some level of health risk. Make sure your pets are current on vaccinations, on a healthy diet, and not elderly or very young.
If you or someone in your household is immunocompromised, please consult your doctor first. Working with animals can expose humans to zoonotic diseases (diseases that can pass between animals and people). Good hygiene, preventative care, and awareness greatly reduce any risk.
10. What supplies do I need?
You provide the space, love, exercise, and basic training. RRR of South LA supplies everything else you’ll need—kennels, food, leashes, toys, etc.—upon request.
11. Do I have to crate-train my foster dog?
No, but crate training can be very effective for house training and safety. It provides dogs a comfortable “den” of their own and gives you peace of mind when you’re not home. Crates must never be used for punishment or long-term confinement.
12. Do I need prior medical knowledge?
No. However, you may need to administer medication or follow a veterinarian’s instructions for sick or injured fosters.
13. What if my foster becomes sick or injured?
RRR of South LA covers all authorized veterinary costs. Contact one of our approved veterinarians or our 24-hour hotline at 225-788-6940 for guidance and authorization.
Do not visit an unapproved vet unless you’re prepared to cover costs personally.
14. Can I return my foster pet if I can no longer foster?
We ask that fosters continue care until a new home is found, but we understand situations change. Please give at least 3 weeks’ notice (no exceptions) so we can find another placement.
In emergencies, fosters may board their pet at one of our approved vets at their own expense while we work to relocate the pet.
15. Are foster pets ever euthanized?
Our goal is to save every adoptable animal. Euthanasia is only considered in cases of severe, untreatable illness or dangerous aggression that cannot be safely managed. Your safety always comes first.
16. How do I get supplies for my foster?
Your foster coordinator will arrange delivery or pickup of needed supplies. Please give 72 hours’ notice for refills (food, medication, newspapers, etc.). Purchases made without prior authorization will not be reimbursed.
17. Can I feed my foster the same food as my own pets?
Please check with us first. Some foods are not approved by RRR of South LA. We typically use dry food only and may assign specific diets for puppies, adults, or medical needs. Feeding your foster your household’s food is allowed but at your own expense.
18. Can I post photos of my fosters on Facebook?
Yes, please do! Social media is a great way to find adopters. Just note that applications are not accepted until the pet is officially listed for adoption. Any early applications will be discarded.
19. Can I change my foster’s name?
If your foster arrived without a name, you may name them. However, if they were already named, please keep that name for consistency in our records and to avoid confusion with medical and adoption paperwork.
20. What does “securing my foster” mean?
All foster pets must be secure at all times—no exceptions.
That means indoors, on leash outside, or in a fully fenced yard with you present.
Crates or playpens can be used for safety during sleep, illness, or when you’re away for short periods—but never as punishment or long-term confinement.
Please be considerate when making requests—allow plenty of notice, be patient, and keep communication open.
1. How long are pets in foster homes?
It depends on the pet and their circumstances. The average stay is about two months, though some may stay as little as two weeks. Pets recovering from injury, certain breeds, or seniors may require a much longer stay.
2. Can I or a family member adopt my foster pet?
Yes! As long as the adopter meets all adoption requirements.
3. What is the process for adopting a foster pet?
Potential adopters must first complete an adoption application (found on our adoption page). Once approved, they may schedule a meet-and-greet with the foster pet.
Final approval or denial is made by an RRR of South LA officer or Foster Coordinator, and all adoptions are approved at the sole discretion of the RRR of South LA.
Upon approval, the adopter pays the adoption fee and, if needed, schedules the spay/neuter appointment. The foster pet then goes to their forever home.
4. Why do I need to apply to adopt my foster? If I’m already an approved foster, shouldn’t I automatically be approved to adopt?
Not necessarily.
Being approved to foster an animal is very different from being approved to adopt one. Fostering and adopting involve distinct requirements, responsibilities, and expectations.
Home & Environment Requirements
Foster animals are often kept in controlled conditions—quarantined, crated, or leashed at all times. For that reason, a fenced yard isn’t always required for fostering.
However, adopted animals are given much more freedom. For their safety, all adoptive homes must have a secure, fully fenced yard so the animal can play and explore safely.
Care & Veterinary Standards
When fostering, your personal pets don’t necessarily need to be spayed/neutered or fully up to date on heartworm prevention and vaccinations. In those cases, foster placement may simply be limited (for example, you can’t foster an unaltered animal of the opposite sex).
For adoption, however, all pets in your home must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and on heartworm prevention. This demonstrates financial readiness and responsible pet ownership—qualities that give every adopted pet the best chance at a happy, healthy forever home.
In short, fostering and adopting are two wonderful but distinct ways to help animals. Our goal is to make sure every adoption is a lasting success for both the animal and their new family.
5. How are foster pets promoted?
Foster pets are listed on Petfinder.com and featured on the RRR of South LA Facebook page. They’re also promoted at adoption events. Foster parents are encouraged to help by sharing photos and information with family, friends, and on social media. Even walks with an “Adopt Me” bandana help!
6. I live in an apartment—can I still foster?
Absolutely. Many pets thrive in smaller spaces with focused one-on-one care. Just be sure to choose a pet appropriate for your lifestyle, provide daily physical and mental enrichment, and have landlord approval.
7. What if I have children?
Fostering is a great family experience. Choose pets that fit your children’s ages and maturity levels. Children under 13 years old should never be left unsupervised with a foster pet. Teach them appropriate care, respect, and safety around animals.
8. I don’t have a yard or a fence—can I still foster dogs or puppies?
Yes! A yard is helpful but not required. Foster dogs may never be left unattended outdoors. RRR of South LA provides exercise pens (x-pens) for puppies and small dogs as needed.
9. Can I foster if I have my own pets?
Yes, but it always carries some level of health risk. Make sure your pets are current on vaccinations, on a healthy diet, and not elderly or very young.
If you or someone in your household is immunocompromised, please consult your doctor first. Working with animals can expose humans to zoonotic diseases (diseases that can pass between animals and people). Good hygiene, preventative care, and awareness greatly reduce any risk.
10. What supplies do I need?
You provide the space, love, exercise, and basic training. RRR of South LA supplies everything else you’ll need—kennels, food, leashes, toys, etc.—upon request.
11. Do I have to crate-train my foster dog?
No, but crate training can be very effective for house training and safety. It provides dogs a comfortable “den” of their own and gives you peace of mind when you’re not home. Crates must never be used for punishment or long-term confinement.
12. Do I need prior medical knowledge?
No. However, you may need to administer medication or follow a veterinarian’s instructions for sick or injured fosters.
13. What if my foster becomes sick or injured?
RRR of South LA covers all authorized veterinary costs. Contact one of our approved veterinarians or our 24-hour hotline at 225-788-6940 for guidance and authorization.
Do not visit an unapproved vet unless you’re prepared to cover costs personally.
14. Can I return my foster pet if I can no longer foster?
We ask that fosters continue care until a new home is found, but we understand situations change. Please give at least 3 weeks’ notice (no exceptions) so we can find another placement.
In emergencies, fosters may board their pet at one of our approved vets at their own expense while we work to relocate the pet.
15. Are foster pets ever euthanized?
Our goal is to save every adoptable animal. Euthanasia is only considered in cases of severe, untreatable illness or dangerous aggression that cannot be safely managed. Your safety always comes first.
16. How do I get supplies for my foster?
Your foster coordinator will arrange delivery or pickup of needed supplies. Please give 72 hours’ notice for refills (food, medication, newspapers, etc.). Purchases made without prior authorization will not be reimbursed.
17. Can I feed my foster the same food as my own pets?
Please check with us first. Some foods are not approved by RRR of South LA. We typically use dry food only and may assign specific diets for puppies, adults, or medical needs. Feeding your foster your household’s food is allowed but at your own expense.
18. Can I post photos of my fosters on Facebook?
Yes, please do! Social media is a great way to find adopters. Just note that applications are not accepted until the pet is officially listed for adoption. Any early applications will be discarded.
19. Can I change my foster’s name?
If your foster arrived without a name, you may name them. However, if they were already named, please keep that name for consistency in our records and to avoid confusion with medical and adoption paperwork.
20. What does “securing my foster” mean?
All foster pets must be secure at all times—no exceptions.
That means indoors, on leash outside, or in a fully fenced yard with you present.
Crates or playpens can be used for safety during sleep, illness, or when you’re away for short periods—but never as punishment or long-term confinement.