r/fosterdogs • u/NoInspector6943 • 1d ago
Discussion First Time Foster Wisdom
Hello!
I’m 4 weeks into my first time fostering. He meets potential adopters this week. Any advice or tips, other than a fresh bath?
He’s 8 years old, super hyper (I’ll phrase it as lively for the people meeting him), and just the sweetest boy.
Overall, he’s been so active that the shelter provided trazodone. Issue is, he’s not completely himself on it. His personality shines more sober. Would you drug him for the visit, or let him go full throttle and be himself?
It’s a 30 minute drive to meet them. I could plan to get there 30 minutes early for a long walk to tire his brain?
Thank you!
CT
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u/Ok_fine_42 1d ago
I would not give him the trazodone. Especially with him being 8, potential adopters may be looking for a lower energy dog and it sounds like a drugged version of him just isn’t accurate to his daily energy. I’ve also found that potential adopters are more likely to walk away from dogs they find “boring” than dogs that being a lot. Getting there early and going for a walk is a great idea!
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u/TexasLiz1 1d ago
Fresh bath. Not a lot of food so that he is eager for treats. I’d let him go full throttle. It’s bad to have a dog returned. A decent walk before hand might be nice.
It’s good to see a senior so active.
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u/Acceptable_Bad5173 1d ago
Are the people you meeting with looking to adopt a first dog or second one? If you have to do a meet with a resident dog then that adds a little bit to it.
I would agree to get there early and go on a walk first. You want the pup to not feel anxious from the car ride, new location or to be over excited when the people get there. I usually let the potential adopters interact with the pup but I hold the leash.
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u/Bulky-Clue-6374 1d ago
I wouldn’t walk/tire him out too much. They need to see what they’re getting into if they adopt him. Playing and going for a walk is also a great way for them to interact with him and get to know him!
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u/PublicEnemaNumberOne 1d ago
Be completely honest and open. Decrease the likelihood he goes through an adoption and then a return.
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