· Web view10. We do not do trial periods with new adopters. Our belief is that this is too...

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FOSTER MANUAL INTRODUCTION Thank you for agreeing to foster a dog for BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE. Foster homes like yours allow us to rescue more dogs, and we appreciate your generosity in opening your home to a rescued dog. By providing a foster home, you’re providing a stable, loving environment for a dog that has been neglected and abandoned. You’re also providing much-needed socialization, and basic training, that will make our dogs more appealing for adoption and better members of their adoptive families. BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE rescues dogs from high kill shelters and surrenders from owners. All shelter dogs must pass some form of temperament testing in order to be accepted into our program. We will not knowingly accept a dog from an owner surrender situation with a known bite history. Only designated members of BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE can determine which dogs our organization will take in. GENERAL GUIDELINES Please read & review the following important guidelines: Prior to fostering, all Foster Homes must complete a Foster Home Application, have a home visit completed by a member of BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE, provide a copy of their home or renter insurance policy, read our Foster Manual and complete the Foster Home Agreement at the end of the manual. All Foster Homes agree to accept primary responsibility for providing lodging and care of their foster dog until a permanent adopting family is found. In the event that you wish to have your foster dog removed all Foster homes understand that such arrangements can take time and must allow for this. Should the Foster Home wish the dog removed sooner than BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE can accomplish, the Foster Home may kennel the dog at their expense at a licensed and approved kennel. Medical care will be provided only after the Foster Home has received permission from a board member (Contact Jessica Fawley at 419-307-1561) of BBR (except in the case of emergency where the dog is in imminent danger - in those situations Fosters must get the dog to a vet ASAP and agree to contact BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE en route). ANY UNAUTHORIZED VET VISITS OR PROCEDURES WILL NOT BE COVERED BY BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE AND WILL BE THE Foster Initials ___________

Transcript of  · Web view10. We do not do trial periods with new adopters. Our belief is that this is too...

FOSTER MANUAL

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for agreeing to foster a dog for BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE. Foster homes like yours allow us to rescue more dogs, and we appreciate your generosity in opening your home to a rescued dog. By providing a foster home, you’re providing a stable, loving environment for a dog that has been neglected and abandoned. You’re also providing much-needed socialization, and basic training, that will make our dogs more appealing for adoption and better members of their adoptive families.

BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE rescues dogs from high kill shelters and surrenders from owners. All shelter dogs must pass some form of temperament testing in order to be accepted into our program. We will not knowingly accept a dog from an owner surrender situation with a known bite history. Only designated members of BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE can determine which dogs our organization will take in.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

Please read & review the following important guidelines:

Prior to fostering, all Foster Homes must complete a Foster Home Application, have a home visit completed by a member of BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE, provide a copy of their home or renter insurance policy, read our Foster Manual and complete the Foster Home Agreement at the end of the manual.

All Foster Homes agree to accept primary responsibility for providing lodging and care of their foster dog until a permanent adopting family is found. In the event that you wish to have your foster dog removed all Foster homes understand that such arrangements can take time and must allow for this. Should the Foster Home wish the dog removed sooner than BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE can accomplish, the Foster Home may kennel the dog at their expense at a licensed and approved kennel.

Medical care will be provided only after the Foster Home has received permission from a board member (Contact Jessica Fawley at 419-307-1561) of BBR (except in the case of emergency where the dog is in imminent danger - in those situations Fosters must get the dog to a vet ASAP and agree to contact BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE en route). ANY UNAUTHORIZED VET VISITS OR PROCEDURES WILL NOT BE COVERED BY BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE AND WILL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE FOSTER HOME. We ask that fosters call prior to leaving vet appointments to authorize payment. It is requested that when a medication is able to be prescribed and dispensed at a pharmacy, that foster makes every effort to do so if it will save BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE necessary funds.

Foster Homes are asked to keep BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE apprised of their foster dog’s behavior. Any and all issues must be reported to BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE immediately.

Only those dogs that have received prior approval for fostering and are deemed adoptable by a director of BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE can be fostered within BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE Foster Program. Volunteers and/or Foster Homes are not authorized to pull dogs directly from the shelter on BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE’S behalf unless given prior consent.

Foster Initials ___________

All applicants for a particular Foster Dog must go through the BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE adoption application process; this includes that particular dog’s foster parent. Any exceptions will be determined by the BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE board of directors only.

All dogs within the Foster Home should be current with their vaccinations. We also recommend that you vaccinate your dogs with a Bordetella vaccination to prevent kennel cough, a common illness with shelter dogs. We also strongly suggest all dogs receive some form of monthly Heartworm preventative (ie Sentinel, Heartgard or Revolution) to prevent Heartworm disease and to protect against intestinal parasites. BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE is not responsible for any veterinary bills for resident dogs. The Foster Home assumes responsibility for any veterinary bills that result from resident dogs becoming ill due to exposure with a Foster Dog.

If you are planning a vacation, please notify BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE as far in advance as you can. We will need at least 2 weeks to arrange for alternative placement for your foster dog. If you want to take your foster dog with you, even for just a weekend, you MUST notify BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE beforehand. If BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE has an applicant interested we may make arrangements to keep your dog locally to be able to show him/her. Do not leave your dog with anyone else without prior approval from BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE. Anytime a foster dog is left we MUST have a signed release of liability.

GETTING YOUR HOME AND FAMILY READY FOR FOSTERING

Fostering is a commitment that will affect your entire household: your family, your permanent-resident pets, and your house and yard itself! Here are some tips to ensure that fostering will be a positive experience for you and your family. Discuss your plans with other family members and get their input on how to make it work out best for everyone.

Supplies You should have the following on hand before your foster dog arrives:

Food & water bowls: it is REQUIRED to have separate bowls for your foster dog, and to feed your resident dogs & foster dog separately so that they can eat in a stress-free environment as they are getting to know each other.

Food & Treats: We encourage you to provide a high quality diet for your foster dog. Many bulldogs have allergies requiring grain free, poultry free foods (be sure to check the ingredient list). BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE DOES NOT approve of the use of rawhides of any kind. Rawhides should not be given to your foster dog nor should they be accessible to him/her.

Dog Crate: We strongly recommend you have a crate for your foster dog. Crate training is a very helpful way to introduce a dog into a new home. We can supply you with a crate if you do not have one.

Harness & leash: We request that the Foster provide a harness and leash for their foster dog. Occasionally we will receive donations of these items and can dispense to foster homes when this happens. Collars are acceptable but HARNESSES ARE PREFERRED (we suggest the step-in harness) as collars that are used improperly can cause tracheal collapse and death.

Preventative Treatment: BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE will provide you Flea/tick treatment as well as Heartworm preventative for your foster dog. Please contact us to make arrangements to have it sent to you or for approval to purchase.

Baby Gate: We strongly encourage fosters to purchase a baby gate to allow for slow-introductions when resident dogs are present. We like the Munchkin metal gates that can purchased at Target.

BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE’S Policy on FencesFences are preferred but not a requirement. If no fence is installed, the bulldog must be leashed outdoors at all times.

Under no circumstance should one of BBR’s Foster dogs use an invisible fence collar. Due to the bulldog’s thick neck, they can easily escape.

Fences tend to create a false sense of security. Fence or no fence: all BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE foster dogs must be supervised at ALL times when outdoors. It only takes a few minutes for a Bulldog to be stolen.

Foster Initials ___________

INTRODUCING YOUR FOSTER DOG TO YOUR HOME

Everyone needs their space

We ask that you keep your foster dog & resident dogs separate from each other for the first 3 days. This is a stressful time for both the foster dog (who may have been on the street/in the shelter/in a transition foster home before arriving at your house. This is a lot of change for an animal that likes to have a “pack” and some stability his/her life!). Also, there are some common sicknesses that sometimes don’t show up for 1-2 weeks that dogs often get at the shelter, so separation can ensure that your dogs don’t get sick. If it is not possible to keep them separate, be aware that your dogs may be exposed to illness. However, also be aware that many of the diseases that shelter dogs get (Kennel Cough, Diarrhea, etc) are stress related. Many have had poor nutrition and a hard life before coming to your home.

BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE cannot be responsible for resident dog vet bills; we do not have the financial resources to make that commitment. If it is not possible to physically separate the dogs, try to ensure that everyone has their own “personal space” of a bed, a crate, or a special area. This will keep the stress levels lower for your own dogs and the foster dog. The backyard is not an acceptable place to leave the foster dog alone & unsupervised. They may be destructive (digging, trampling plants), they may be escape artists, they may bark incessantly, or they could be snatched. A crate or a room that is enclosed (like a kitchen) are the best choices.

Dog Introductions

Introduce your resident dogs to the foster dog on neutral territory, at a park or down the street from your house, for example. Introduce them on leash, with an adult holding each leash. Allow a quick “hello” sniff or walk-by, and then separate them, even if things seem fine. This gives them a chance to think about things, and often, they will then seek each other out to get a lengthier greeting. Give lots of positive reinforcement so that both dogs feel safe and that the other dog is a friend, not a foe. If one dog gets aggressive, separate them quickly, comfort the dogs, and slow down the pace of the introductions. Don’t force things if they are not immediate best friends; sometimes it takes a few days for dogs to accept each other. Sometimes, dogs just don’t like each other. By giving them each attention separately, and making them feel safe about their bed, toys, and food, you can minimize any tension.

Getting along

Dogs are pack animals. There is usually one who dominates. Correction of one dog by another (whether it is your resident dog or the foster) is normal. As long as the dogs are responding positively to each other and seem to recognize the “pecking order”, this is fine. One dog may growl at another. If the dog reacts by moving away or showing passivity, then usually, the dogs will get along fine. If they are constantly battling for the “alpha” position, then they will have to be separated, and may not be a good fit for each other. Never leave the dogs unsupervised together. This cannot be stressed greatly enough. They are still getting to know one another, and will need correction on appropriate behavior toward each other, which means supervision. If you are leaving the house, then crate the dogs or otherwise physically separate them. Again, feed the dogs separately. This reduces stress for everyone. Food aggression between dogs is common.

Children

Fosters are instructed to supervise their children with the foster dog 100% of the time. If this is not possible the foster dog MUST be contained in an area separate from the child (crate, gated-off room, etc.) Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES should any foster dog be left alone with anyone under the age of 12 years.

Cat Introductions

First, make sure that your cat has his/her own sanctuary—preferably a room where the foster dog will not be allowed to go. If you can keep the cat’s food & litter box in this room, and keep the door closed, then the dog & cat can sniff each other under the door for a few days before meeting face to face. This will make things go a lot smoother, as they will most likely feel they have already “met.” Supervise the dog’s behavior even at the door, reinforce playful, curious behavior and correct any aggression or obsession. When introducing the dog & cat for the first time, put the dog on a leash & just allow the cat to walk by if he/she wants to. Here, you’re looking to evaluate both the dog & the cat. Is the cat fearful or curious? Is the dog happy/playful or chomping at the bit? After introductions have occurred, keep in mind the following tips: Foster Initials ___________

•Never leave the cat & foster dog unsupervised, even if it looks like they get along great. A playful dog can still unintentionally harm a cat. •Make sure your cat has places to jump up to in each room or hide under where the dog can’t get him/her. •Playful chasing is normal, but always remind the foster dog to play nice/slow down/not run. •Don’t allow the dog to stare down the cat. The dog should know that he/she is not allowed to obsess on the cat. The cat may swipe at the dog or hiss in order to correct. This is usually a great help in ensuring the dog knows his/her place. But, keep an eye on interactions to ensure the cat doesn’t injure the dog, as well.

With all your resident pets, allow the animals to accept one another on their own time. Never push them toward each other or force interaction. Many animals become companions and playmates, while others simply tolerate each other.

Working with your foster dog

While your foster dog is living with you, you should provide some basic training along with lots of tender loving care. No formal training regime is needed for most foster dogs, but if you can work on the following, it will make your foster dog much more “adoptable.”

Socializing is definitely the first priority. This means ensuring that your foster dog is acclimated to meeting new people, dogs, cats, children, as wide a group as possible. If you have a shy dog, this is a big task, and should be approached slowly (but all the more important to address it so that your dog overcomes his/her shyness.) With a more outgoing dog, it’s more about curbing enthusiasm so that people aren’t overwhelmed upon meeting the dog (or knocked over with love!)

Food aggression with other dogs is a fairly common trait; however food aggression towards people is not acceptable. If your foster dog is growling when you are near his food, you need to work on correcting this behavior. Hand-feed the dog, so that it’s clear the food is yours, and you are the giver of food. Then, when feeding with a bowl, take it away several times during the meal, giving it back after the dog sits & waits politely. With a non-food aggressive dog, these are still good tips, along with taking chewies away & giving them back. If the dog growls a bit, tell them “no”, and then practice taking it until they get the idea. Repeat daily. If your foster dog is showing food aggression with your dog over food or chews, always feed them separately. Another good reason to crate your foster dog, as you can use that place as a safe place to give treats, chews, and toys.

House training (potty training) is definitely desirable for both you and the future adopter. The best way to house train is to use a crate, and to be vigilant about taking the dog outside regularly, including after naps and meals. If a dog is particularly stubborn about house training, keep them on a leash in the house; this will prevent them from wandering off to hide to go potty. Crate training is a great way not only to potty train, but also to establish general house manners since the dog will not be roaming free in the house unless he/she is being supervised. So, no chewing on couch cushions, counter-surfing, or garbage can diving if the dog is not left alone. We have more materials on crate training available to you.

Sitting is relatively easy to teach and pays big dividends. A dog that sits for his/her leash and food knows they are subservient to the person commanding them to sit. It also helps to get an overly excited dog under control. Jumping up is a common problem with our foster dogs—they are so happy to have someone to love! But, it’s best if they are taught not to do this, since it can knock people over or just be rude. The best prevention is to see it coming and tell them to stop and sit. Once they have this down, they can be invited “up” for a visit, but only with an invitation.

Leash walking is challenging to teach. Many of our dogs have never been on a leash and have no idea how to behave. If you’re ambitious, you can work on heal, but even “easy” is fine. “Easy” is when the dog isn’t necessarily healing at your side, but they are also not dragging you down the street. This takes time to learn and patience on your part. A nervous dog may not be pulling but reluctant to walk or trying to get away from you and the leash. The goal then is to get the dog to relax and walk confidently with you. We can give you some pointers on either of these cases.

Dogs & Children

Dogs and kids go together like peanut butter & jelly; they are great playmates, guardians, and confidants. But children must learn proper handling and discipline, and dogs must learn self-control so that they do not play too rough. Children must be supervised 100% of the time and taught that dogs are beings, not dolls or toys to dress-up or be handled constantly. Teach children not to tease or rile up the dog unnecessarily. This includes chasing around the house, which can scare a dog, who may snap if cornered or frightened. Make sure your children know that it is not the dog’s fault if the dog chews up toys that are left out. Keeping doors shut & toys in toy boxes can help minimize damage. Children like the Foster Initials ___________

idea of caring for a dog, but the daily work of feeding, bathing, brushing, and cleaning up after the dog is not really suited for them. Recognize that the initial enthusiasm will wane quickly, and the true responsibility of caring for the dog will fall to the adults in the household. Young children should not walk foster dogs, as, even if the dog is easy to walk, the child cannot really handle any encounters with other dogs or cats that are bound to happen. Children should not play unsupervised with foster dogs. Perhaps most importantly, children must learn to properly discipline the foster dog (a sharp “no”). Children often react to a dog’s bad behavior by hitting the dog which is totally unacceptable.

Adoption Procedure

BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE works hard to find the proper match for each of our dogs, to ensure that both the adopting family and the dog will be happy with their decision. All applicants must go through the BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE adoption process. It is important for you to understand our adoption procedures since you will get questions about it. The adoption process is as follows: 1. The applicant fills out an application 2. BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE reviews the application and if accepted will contact the vet reference provided. 3. Following a positive vet reference check BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE will set up a telephone interview with the applicant. 4. The next step after a positive phone interview is a home visit. A BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE representative will complete a home visit to get to know the applicant better and to help decide what type of dog would be happiest in that home. ALL MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY MUST BE PRESENT. 5. A home visit report is submitted for review. BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE determines if the applicant is approved to adopt a BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE dog. Approved adopters are notified and their application file is either saved (in the case that no dogs match their home) or forwarded to a potential matching dog’s foster family for review.6. Fosters are asked to review new approved application files to see if an applicant may be a potential match for the dog in their care. Once a foster has identified a potential applicant from the approved pool, they must contact a member of the BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE adoption committee to discuss. ONLY adoptions sanctioned by a member of the BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE adoption committee can be finalized. Foster Homes must let us know any concerns you have about the requirements for your foster dog’s adoptive home. This includes how long the dog can be left, how the dog is with cats/children/other dogs, and any other pertinent information. We maintain a requirements list for each of our foster dogs to ensure that the dogs’ needs are met. 7. All dogs are spayed or neutered; brought up to date on their shots, heartworm tested, micro chipped and have had a general physical before being placed. 8. If an animal is sick or recovering from injury, we will usually not place the dog until he/she has fully recovered. 9. No dog is "held" for a potential adopter, no matter how much we like them. For example, if one applicant comes without a family member and another comes with everyone, if both are qualified for the particular dog we will go with the second. We do not hold dogs (or offer to extend fostering) for adopters who are about to go on vacation. We ask that they come back after they have returned. 10. We do not do trial periods with new adopters. Our belief is that this is too stressful on the dog and doesn't really show the adopter the true dog as they will be on their best behavior. 11. Please keep in mind that you should not make any promises or statements about the adopter’s “chances” of getting the dog. This is a topic that can get very emotional, with potential adopters getting very attached to the dogs they are looking at. We attempt to minimize/prevent hard feelings and keep emotions from running too high by having a member of the Adoption Committee be the only one to let potential adopters know where they are at in the adoption process. This also minimizes miscommunication. We also ask that you trust the adoption counselors as they have been doing this for many years and have learned some things the hard way. However, if you don't understand a decision, feel free to ask. Please periodically review your foster dog’s posting on our Facebook page and website. Email [email protected] to let them know of any updates or changes. The bio is intended to be truthful, but we also try to focus on the positive. We are happy to incorporate your thoughts into the bio. Please feel free to email Jen Merrill ideas! Read the current bios online to get a sense of the style we use. Of course, we always discuss a dog’s behavior (positive & negative) in detail with potential adopters. We want to make sure they are fully apprised of the dog’s strengths & weaknesses so as to minimize surprises post-adoption.

Medical Treatment

Prior to any medical procedure being done, you must contact a Buckeye Bulldog RESCUE Representative(currently Jess Fawley) and get approval. Failure to get prior approval will mean that you forego reimbursement for treatment. In addition, even if you are willing to cover vet expenses, we prefer to have the dogs seen by the vets on our list so that the dogs get consistent care and have their records centralized. If the dog is sick, injured, needs to be spayed/neutered or needs a doctor’s visits for immunization, your BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE Representative will give permission for you to make Foster Initials ___________

a vet appointment at a convenient time for you to have the dog seen. If you need help transporting the dog to the vet, please let us know. For medical emergencies, please call immediately.

Make sure that your own pets are protected. We expect that resident pets are all spayed/neutered and have all their vaccinations. We recommend, in addition to DHLPP and Rabies, that your pets are immunized for Bordetella (kennel cough) since it is a common ailment among shelter dogs. We also expect that your resident pets are kept on flea/tick and heartworm prevention. We strongly recommend using a heartworm preventative that protects against many common intestinal parasites (ie Sentinel, Iverhart or Revolution) You will need to start a file for your Foster to keep track of all receipts, immunization records and medical treatment. We ask that you ensure that your foster dog is treated for fleas, brushed, and bathed.

Reimbursement Procedure

BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE will reimburse you for: • Pre-approved medical expenses • Pre-approved flea treatment • Other supplies, if pre-approved To receive reimbursement for pre-approved expenses, fax (preferred), mail or email receipts to:

Fax: 6143172185Email: [email protected]:PO Box 641Grove City, OH 43123

BULLDOG SPECIFIC HEALTH CONCERNS AND SUGGESTIONSFoster Initials ___________

BULLDOGS AND ALLERGIESIt is not uncommon for bulldogs to have allergies; in fact, it is the biggest concern we hear about from our foster parents. Signs & symptoms of allergies include constant scratching, feet licking, recurrent ear infections, yeasty-smelling skin and rubbing at the eyes.

The first thing you should do if you suspect your foster dog has allergies is to evaluate the type of food you are feeding. Allergies in bulldogs are often food related with many dogs being sensitive to certain protein sources (poultry being one of the biggest allergens). It’s important to pay attention to ingredient lists. Just because a food says “salmon and pea” doesn’t mean it won’t have chicken fat or poultry fat (or dried egg!) as a hidden ingredient. When you are trying to determine if food is the cause of allergies, you will want to do an elimination diet which means eliminating all treats, table scraps and chew bones (many nylabones/toys are poultry flavored) and choosing limited ingredient dog foods with novel ingredients (ingredients many dogs have not been exposed to). Most bulldogs are food driven and will happily accept dog food pieces as a form of treat which is what you should choose to use. Below is a list of foods that you may want to consider. Some of these foods we can get at a discounted rate so be sure to ask if you would like to try one of these foods.

Food Recommendations: Natural Balance Sweet Potato and VenisonNatural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets (LID)Nature’s Variety Limited IngredientWellness Simple Salmon and Potato

Wellness Simple Duck and OatmealZignature Trout and Salmon Meal FormulaStella & Chewy’s Rabbit

Primal Raw

*If your foster bulldog does not respond to a change in protein source, you way want to try a potato free formula. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates, which promote yeast growth.

It may take a few weeks after making a change before you notice a difference. During the transition period, if your foster dog seems miserable, you can dispense Benadryl (1mg per pound 2x daily so a 50lb dog = 2 25mg pills once in the morning and once in the evening). WARNING: Benadryl can cause hyperactivity and should NOT be used for long-term maintenance. Claritin and Zyrtec given once daily can be used for maintenance. (Please be sure to discuss this with a BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE REPRESENTATIVE).

Zymox Shampoo – your best friend. Bathing your foster dog in Zymox shampoo can make a big difference for itchy dogs. You can order this online. Zymox Ear Cleanser and hydrocortisone cream are also highly recommended.

Povidone Iodine foot soaks – For those with especially itchy feet, you can diliute povidone iodine in water and soak your foster dog’s feet for 5-10 minutes

WRINKLE CAREIf your foster bulldog has deep wrinkles (especially a deep nose rope pocket), you’ll need to be diligent about keeping it clean. If it is infected (indicated by redness, pungent smell and “gunk”), you will want to wipe it with a medicated wipe like Chloraseb pledgets. If you do not have these on hand, you can wipe the folds clean using a mild skin cleanser, dry them well with a towel and apply diaper rash cream to the area. For long-term maintenance, sensitive skin baby wipes can be used along with cornstarch to keep them clean and dry. Preventing moisture is the key to keeping away bacteria/yeast.

If you notice excessive moisture/redness in the wrinkles that lead down the face from the eyes, pay close attention to your foster bulldog’s eyes. This could indicate other problems like entropian/distichia. Please contact a BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE representative to discuss.

INTERDIGITAL FURUNCLES (COMMONLY REFERRED TO AS INTERDIGITAL CYSTS)These pesky fleshy welts between the toes are pretty common in bulldogs and do not warrant an emergency trip to the vet. These are generally secondary to an underlying issue, most generally yeast overgrowth from allergies. You’ll want to apply the same techniques here as mentioned above. Chloraseb wipes work wonders for all yeast issues and we highly recommend you invest in some (around $10). Many people try Epsom salt soaks but you’ll find faster relief with less itching by using the Chloraseb wipes. An option if you do not have Chloraseb wipes on hand and your foster dog is itching uncontrollably would be to use Vagisil or Preparation H.

TAIL POCKETSFoster Initials ___________

You’ll want to check to make sure your foster bulldog does not have a tail pocket (many of them do). They require regular cleaning just as the wrinkles do. You can apply the same methods mentioned above. Again, dryness is key.

NOSE CAREIf your foster bulldog has what appears to be a dry nose (crusty/white or yellow), you can use coconut oil rubbed on the nose diligently or Aquaphor

BREATHING PROBLEMS & SNORINGBulldogs are considered a brachycephalic breed (shortened head), which makes them prone to breathing problems due to elongated palates, stenotic nares, everted laryngeal saccules and hypoplastic tracheas. If you suspect your bulldog has difficulty breathing, please bring this up to a BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE representative. Snoring and witnessed apneas (when your bulldog stops breathing while sleeping) can be a sign of one or more of these issues. If your foster bulldog is easily winded and sounds like he is choking or coughing after minimal play/exercise, he/she may have the aforementioned problems requiring surgical correction to prevent further health issues (ie heat stroke and congestive heart failure).

HEAT STROKEHeat stroke is a common cause of death in bulldogs. It is important to do your research on heat stroke as it pertains to bulldogs. It is a common misconception that heat stroke is only due to heat on hot summer days. Heat stroke can occur at any time and is often brought on by anxiety. When bringing home your new foster bulldog, it’s imperative that you pay attention to their behavior. If your foster bulldog is panting heavily and uncontrollably, you will want to monitor the color of his/her gums/tongue and check their temperature rectally. A temperature of 101-102 is normal. Anything above 104 is probable heat stroke. At this point, you’ll want to place your foster bulldog in a tub and use cool (NOT COLD!) water running over the bulldog and contact a vet and BBR rep immediately. DO NOT force the bulldog to drink because it can cause the dog to aspirate due to his/her swelling airways.

If at any time, you have questions or concerns regarding your foster bulldog’s health, please do not hesitate to ask a BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE representative. It is important that you keep us updated on their health so that we can relay this information to potential adopters interested in your foster bulldog.

RESCUE CONTACTS:Jessica Fawley: 4193071561Amy Martinez: 4196182455Jen Merrill: 4406702358Amy Moore: 3306412151Jodi Amos: 2193817278

Foster Initials ___________

BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE FOSTER HOME AGREEMENT & GUIDELINES

Name: Address:

Phone:E-Mail:

BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE Guidelines:

Only the designated Senior BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE members shall approve and place rescued animals into foster homes. Your Foster Home contact must be notified as soon as possible of any changes in the status of either the animal in your care or the foster home environment you have indicated above.

All animals placed in foster care will be examined by an approved Veterinarian, and will have been given/will be given all necessary immunizations and either already or will be scheduled to be spayed or neutered.

We appreciate any willingness to donate basics. An approved BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE representative must approve any unusual expenses. Basics include: Dog: harness, tag and leash.

The BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE rescued animal must be on a leash or in a secure pet carrier when outside of its foster home and yard. During transport, the BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE rescued animal must ride inside the car.

Foster must comply with all local, state, and federal ordinances and laws relating to keeping a dog including leash/license laws

Your Foster dog must be kept at the residence address stated below and foster must provide the new address and/or telephone number to a BBR representative immediately in the event of a change in residence or telephone number

Your Foster Home Contact must be notified immediately if the animal in your care is injured or missing. Any emergency veterinary expenses for your foster dog will be reimbursed by BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE in the event an approved Veterinarian cannot be reached.

Ownership of all rescued animals remains with BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE until such time as proper adoption is completed. No rescued animal may be adopted, sold, transferred, or relinquished without the approval by the authorized representative of BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE.

Only authorized representatives of BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE will conduct Interviews, Home Visits and adoptions.

Adoptions will be deemed consummated only after completion of the Adoption Contract, receipt of the agreed upon donation, and final approval by the authorized representative of BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE.

If foster home decides to adopt his/her dog, it is agreed that he/she will pay the full adoption fee charged. Adoption must be approved by the board and in most cases require the foster to have met the requirement of either fostering 1 previous bulldog or fostering for 6 months; this can be waived by the board depending on the situation so we encourage you to speak with us if you are interested in adopting your foster. All foster decisions to adopt must be made within one week of dog being made available for adoption.

Foster agrees to permit a BBR representative to observe the premises where the dog is house and to reclaim the dog if, in the sole judgment of the BBR representative, it is not being cared for as agreed to in this document, or if BBR is required to return the dog to a third party, or if facts have been misrepresented to BBR.

Foster agrees to make all attempts to make arrangements to transport foster dog to and from veterinary appointments, boarding, events etc. Getting the foster dog to events is of utmost importance to improve the dog’s chances of exposure and get the dog adopted in a timely fashion.

BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE Contact: Amy MartinezCell number: 4196182455Email: [email protected]

Foster Initials ___________

BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE RELEASE OF LIABILITY

I/We have read and fully understand that BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE Foster Home Agreement. (initial)_____

There have been no other representations or promises other than those included in this Foster Home Agreement. (initial) _____

I/We understand that all rescue volunteer work done with BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE is at my/our own risk. (initial) _____I/We, have read, understand, and agree to abide by the conditions of the BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE Foster Home Agreement & Guidelines. I/we understand that all work done with BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE is at my/our own risk, and hereby release Buckeye Bulldog Rescue and its members of any and all public liability, property damages, and medical costs while I/we am/are providing volunteer foster care for BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE.

I/We, hereby for myself (ourselves), heirs, administrators and assigns, fully, irrevocably and unconditionally release and agree to hold harmless BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE and its individual members from any and all known or unknown, anticipated or unanticipated, suspected or unsuspected and/or fixed, conditional or contingent, actions, causes of action, charges, suits, debts, demands, claims, contracts, covenants, liens, rights, liabilities, losses, royalties, costs, expenses (including, without limitation, attorneys' fees) or damages, including but not limited to any medical costs, damages to property, persons or other pets, of every kind, nature and description, at law or in equity, in connection with or arising from while I am caring for the agreed rescue companion animal.

Foster Home Signature(s): ______________________________________ Date: _____________________

BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE Representative: ___________________________ Date: _____________________

Foster Initials ___________

FOSTER FILE REQUIREMENTS/CHECKLIST

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

**For every foster bulldog you have, you will need to start and maintain a physical (hard copy) file with all original paper work, medical records, adoption contracts. After your foster bulldog gets adopted, You will need to send this completed file (within 7 days) to

LORI LESLIE-- 5686 CHESAPEAKE WAY--FAIRFIELD OH 45014  

Name of Dog: ____________________________

Dogs age/birth date: _____________

Intake Date: _____________________________

Adoption Date: _________________

  

Surrender Questionnaire (copy will be sent to you when or before your foster arrives…please print)

Surrender Agreement- This is the form the owner signs to allow BBR to take ownership of their bulldog. 

All vet records (from previous owner/shelter) AKC papers, microchip records, etc., that came with the dog at intake and while in foster care. 

Vet completed initial visit checklist (see “Files” in BBR chat) vet receipts (ask for a copy at your Vet visits)

Copy of application of the person adopting the dog. This will come from Amy (please print a copy for your file)

Completed Phone interview form

Completed Home Check Evaluation for person adopting dog

Signed Adoption Contract. Two copies need to be signed at the time of adoption. One goes to the family. One goes in your foster file.

Copy of (cashier’s check, check) or paypal receipt

***ALL PAYMENTS SHOULD BE SENT TO (do not send cash and please tell us the name of the dog): BUCKEYE BULLDOG RESCUE-PO BOX 641-GROVE CITY OH 43123

Once the adoption is complete, all the above documents/records need to be sent to Lori Leslie within 7 days*** at 5686 Chesapeake Way -Fairfield OH 45014

Foster Initials ___________