Foster a Pug. Save a Life.

We’re Looking for Engaged Foster Parents!

We are a 100% foster-based rescue — which means no boarding facility, no backup system, and no rescue without fosters. In our fast-paced rescue, fosters are not placeholders; they are essential, trusted partners. We’re looking for fosters who are communicative, attentive, and actively involved in guiding their foster pug from intake to adoption.

All applicants must complete the foster application, foster agreement, and Maddie's University Training before we will conduct an onboarding call.

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Our Expectations

We will supply everything you need for your foster journey and cover all medical costs.

Fosters are expected to complete weekly Monday check-ins in Slack, including updates and photos or videos of their foster dog.

They are responsible for transporting their foster dog to all vet appointments, which are scheduled by the rescue, as well as attending adoption events and participating in meet and greets with potential adopters.

Fosters should be comfortable staying communicative, following our process, and being actively involved throughout their foster dog’s journey from intake to adoption.

These expectations are non-negotiable and are a key part of how we successfully place dogs into the right homes in a timely manner.

Fostering May NOT Be the Right Fit If You...

Can’t commit to consistent weekly updates and communication
Prefer to work independently or schedule things on your own
Are not available for events or meet & greets
Have a schedule that makes consistency difficult
Are looking for a low-involvement or short-term experience

About Our Foster Program

Communication Matters (A Lot)

We use Slack as our primary communication tool, and this is where all updates, coordination, and support take place. Timely responses are expected, especially around vetting and events, and weekly check-ins are required—not optional. We also expect notifications to be turned ON for the majority of the time. This structure is how we ensure every dog is supported and set up for success.

What to Expect From Your Foster Dog

Most of our dogs come to us with little to no background—as strays, owner surrenders, or from shelters.

That means:

They are often not potty-trained
Not kennel/crate trained
May not understand basic routines or structure

Some may need time to decompress, build confidence, or learn how to exist in a home environment. Fostering requires patience, flexibility, and consistency—especially in the beginning.

Why does Arizona Pug Party accept owner-surrendered dogs?

As a nonprofit, our goal is to help reduce the overpopulation and overcrowding of animals in local shelters while also preventing more dogs from becoming strays. By taking in owner-surrendered pugs, we provide a safe, loving environment where they can recover, thrive, and eventually find their forever homes. This helps support both the dogs and the community while giving every pug the best chance at a happy life.

Transportation & Location Expectations

We are a statewide rescue, which means flexibility with travel is required.

Fosters are responsible for transporting their foster dog to:

Vet appointments (scheduled by the rescue)
Adoption events
Meet & greets with potential adopters

While we always try to schedule vet appointments with the closest partner clinic, availability and medical needs may require driving further.

Adoption events and meet & greets may also be 30–60+ minutes away, depending on location and adopter fit.

Getting Started

Start by completing a Foster Application, Foster Agreement, and the free Maddie’s University Shelter and Rescue Training – Canine course.

You’ll then have a call with a Board member and a home visit to receive supplies.

Once approved, you’ll be matched with a pug and can start making a difference!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long do dogs stay in foster care?

Every dog is different. Some stay weeks, others longer—we work with your availability. On average, our dogs get adopted within 1 month.

Who pays for medical care?

Arizona Pug Party covers approved veterinary care.

What does a home check entail?

A home check is a quick visit to ensure your environment is safe and suitable for a foster pug. We’ll look at where your foster will sleep, eat, and play, and check that your home is secure and free from hazards. This helps us make sure every dog is comfortable and protected while in your care. Don’t worry—it’s a supportive process, not an inspection!

Can I foster if I work full-time?

Yes! Many of our fosters work full-time.

What if I need to travel?

Whenever you’re out of town, a fellow approved foster will lovingly care for your foster, keeping them safe and happy until you return.

What if it’s not a good fit?

We’ll work with you to find a better placement—your honesty matters.