Foster a Samoyed in New England

New England Samoyed Rescue Foster Application

Thank you for your interest in fostering!

Fosters are the heart of New England Samoyed Rescue—providing love, safety, and healing to Samoyeds in transition.

Our foster program is not intended to be a trial period for adoption, or for "adoption-ready" pets. If you are trying to determine if you are ready to adopt a dog, please speak directly to the NESR Team rather than applying through the foster program. Not all foster homes will be able to take all kinds of pets; our review process helps identify the unique abilities of your home and family to ensure a safe and successful foster experience.

Requirements to Foster:

  • You must be at least 25 years of age and have your own health insurance.

  • Have an approved foster application and complete an orientation (which includes a review and signature of the NESR handbook and contract).

  • Complete three specific courses from Maddie's Fund (NESR will provide access details):

    • Bringing a New Dog Home

    • Canine Body Language

    • Zoonosis

  • Maintain weekly contact with the NESR Team (text or call is required).

  • Be available to support (or allow the NESR Team) to bring animals to an approved veterinary clinic if needed.

  • Have flexibility regarding return dates to the shelter and assist with transport when needed.

  • Provide at least 10 days' notice if you are no longer able to foster.

  • Samoyed or Nordic breed experience is preferred but not required.

Foster Application

boundaries are (like couches, beds, and other spaces). With patience and consistency, you’ll help them feel secure and begin to thrive.

Health, Safety & Liability

While NESR takes every precaution to ensure the health and safety of our dogs, it is important to understand that fostering or adopting a rescue Samoyed may carry certain risks.

NESR provides veterinary care and treatment as needed, but foster families should be aware of these possibilities and follow all recommended health and hygiene practices. Prompt communication with NESR regarding any concerns ensures that appropriate care can be provided quickly.

Foster Application Questionnaire

Still interested? If you would like to become an approved foster, please copy the questionnaire below, fill in your answers, and email it along with the waiver of liability agreement to NESamoyedRescue@gmail.com so we can learn more about you and your home.

Household & Experience

  • Type of residence (House, Apartment, Condo, Other):

  • Do you own or rent? (If renting, do you have landlord approval to foster dogs?):

  • Number of adults in the home:

  • Number of children (and their ages):

  • Is everyone in the household on board with fostering?:

  • Do you currently have pets? (Please list species, breed, age, and temperament):

  • Have you owned dogs before?:

  • Experience with Samoyeds or Nordic breeds? (If yes, please explain):

  • Are your current pets spayed/neutered and up to date on vaccines? (If no, please explain why not):

Environment & Preferences

  • Are you comfortable with crate training, leash walking, and basic behavioral support?:

  • How long are you typically away from home each day?:

  • Do you have a fenced yard?:

  • Are you open to fostering dogs with medical needs, behavioral quirks, or seniors?:

  • Preferred foster duration (short-term, long-term, emergency only):

  • Any age, size, or temperament preferences?:

Fostering Scenarios

  • Why do you want to foster with New England Samoyed Rescue?:

  • What does a typical day look like in your home?:

  • How would you handle a dog with anxiety, reactivity, or housebreaking issues?:

  • Are you willing to transport the dog to vet appointments or adoption events?:

Foster Agreement & Acknowledgments

By submitting this application, I acknowledge and agree to the following:

  • I agree to keep the foster dog safe, secure, and cared for as directed.

  • I understand that NESR retains legal ownership of all foster dogs.

  • I understand that NESR may conduct a home visit or virtual check-in prior to approval.

  • I agree to sign an adoption agreement and waiver/hold harmless (liability waiver) as part of the foster application process.

  • If selected, I agree to review and sign the NESR foster handbook/training manual.

  • I understand that the foster animal(s) must remain in my care and control at all times, with the obvious exceptions of pet adoptions, vet visits, and grooming.

  • I agree that if the foster dog needs temporary care for any reason, I will contact the rescue to make arrangements with an approved representative.