🐾 Adopt or Foster with Fighting For Paws 🐾

Ready to open your heart and home to a dog in need? Whether you're looking to adopt your new best friend or offer a temporary safe haven as a foster, you're in the right place.

💛 Why Adopt or Foster?

Every dog we save comes from a story of neglect, abandonment, or abuse. Fostering and adopting changes lives—theirs and yours. When you choose to foster, you’re giving a dog a second chance. When you adopt, you're giving them forever.

🐶 Adoption FAQs:

Q: What’s included in the adoption fee?
A: Every adopted dog is spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and has received any necessary medical care. They also undergo basic socialization and assessment.

Q: How do I meet the dog I’m interested in?
A: Start by filling out our quick adoption application. Once approved, we’ll schedule a meet-and-greet to see if it's a match!

Q: Do you do home checks?
A: Yes. We do home checks to ensure the environment is safe and appropriate for the dog’s needs. This helps set everyone up for success!

Q: Can I adopt if I have other pets?
A: Absolutely! Many of our dogs do well with other animals, but we’ll help assess compatibility case by case.

Q: What if it doesn’t work out?
A: We’re always here to support you. If an adoption isn’t the right fit, we’ll take the dog back and continue working to find the right home.

🏡 Foster FAQs:

Q: How long do I keep a foster dog?
A: It varies! Some dogs find homes within days, while others may take a few weeks or more. We’ll work with your schedule and comfort level.

Q: What does Fighting For Paws provide?
A: We provide food, supplies, and vet care. You provide the love, shelter, and patience.

Q: What if I get too attached?
A: That’s totally normal—it’s called “foster fail” and it's one of our favorite kinds of failure. Many fosters fall in love and choose to adopt. And if not, know you played a vital role in their journey.

Q: I’ve never fostered before—can I still help?
A: YES! We love first-time fosters. We’ll guide and support you every step of the way.

🐾 The 3-3-3 Rule of Rescue Dogs 🐾

Understanding the adjustment period:

💛 3 Days — To Decompress

  • Your new dog may be overwhelmed, scared, or shut down.

  • They might not eat or drink much.

  • They may hide, sleep a lot, or pace/restlessly explore.

  • They’re still unsure of their new environment and routine.

👉 Give them space, quiet time, and consistency.

🐶 3 Weeks — To Start Settling In

  • They’re learning your routine, starting to feel safe.

  • Behavior and personality begin to emerge.

  • Testing boundaries may start (like chewing, barking, or guarding).

  • They’re figuring out where they belong in your “pack.”

👉 Now’s the time to gently introduce training, structure, and bonding.

🏡 3 Months — To Feel at Home

  • Your dog knows they’re home.

  • Trust has been built.

  • They feel comfortable, confident, and loved.

  • They understand your routine, your expectations, and your love.

👉 This is when real transformation begins—this is when rescue becomes forever.

Reminder: Every dog is different. Some adjust faster, others take longer—but the 3-3-3 rule is a beautiful framework to guide your heart and set expectations.