If you’ve ever searched “how to foster a dog in Dallas” or wondered what it’s really like to open your home to a rescue, you’re not alone.
At Dallas Street Dog Advocates, one of the biggest challenges we face isn’t finding dogs in need—it’s finding foster homes ready to help them. Many people tell us the same thing:
“I could never foster… I’d get too attached.”
We understand that feeling. And the truth is—you probably will get attached.
But fostering isn’t about avoiding that connection. It’s about using it to change a dog’s life.
To share what that really looks like, we asked longtime DSDA fosters Robert and Patty to offer their perspective. Over the years, they’ve fostered dozens of dogs—from young puppies to long-term, more complex cases, including dogs who were fearful, neglected, or suddenly without a home. Through it all, they’ve remained committed to giving each dog a safe place to land.
Here’s what Robert had to say:
A Foster’s Perspective
Well, it’s National Adoption Week.
My dad once told me a story about making a good breakfast—the chicken is involved, but the pig is committed. He told me to find something you love and give all you can, be committed, and you will be happy.
I always remember that story when thinking about fostering dogs, or any animal, for a rescue.
There are involved people—and we are so grateful for them. They support the rescue, donate, share posts, and help get dogs adopted. We are not a success without them.
Then there are the committed people…the fosters.
Fosters are the ones who open their hearts and homes to abused and neglected animals. They give time and patience, knowing the animals are not at fault for their situation. Fosters fall in love many times a year, serving as that “bridge” from a bad situation to a better life.
One of the biggest things we hear is, “I won’t be able to give them up.”
Patty and I have fallen in love about 60 times (probably more) over the past 10 years of fostering.
Is it hard work? Yes.
Do we miss the dogs we’ve fostered? Yes.
Have we made new friends with the wonderful families who adopted them? Absolutely.
It is such a joy to see a broken dog become whole again.
Rescues need fosters, and DSDA is no different. It gives Patty and me so much joy to look back at all the dogs we’ve fostered—and to stay in touch with the families to see how they’ve grown.
I’ll borrow a line from an old commercial:
“Fostering is the hardest job you will love doing.”
When you foster a rescue dog, you’re giving more than temporary shelter—you’re offering a second chance at life.
If it’s in your heart to help, please reach out to the DSDA team.
Why Fostering Matters (and How DSDA Supports You)
Robert’s experience reflects what we hear from so many of our fosters—while it can be challenging, it’s also incredibly rewarding. Fostering is one of the most impactful ways to support dog rescue, and with DSDA, you’re never doing it alone.
At DSDA, we work hard to make fostering as approachable and supported as possible:
- Supplies and guidance to help you get started
- Volunteer support when you need coverage for travel or a busy schedule
- A responsive rescue team to help navigate any challenges
- A strong community of fosters, adopters, and volunteers
Not sure you’re ready to commit long-term? Temporary or short-term fostering is a great place to start.
Every night a dog spends in a foster home instead of a shelter—or worse, on the street—can change the outcome of their life.
Ready to Foster a Dog in Dallas?
If you’ve been thinking about fostering but weren’t sure where to start, this is your sign.
You don’t have to be perfect.
You don’t have to have all the answers.
You just have to be willing to help.
Learn more about fostering and apply at dsda.org