Fostering, done right.
Fostering isn't just about having space — it's about being the right environment for the right dog at the right time. Matching Intelligence™ ensures every foster is prepared, not just available.
Why Certification Is Required
Not all dogs require the same level of skill, awareness, or leadership. A high-energy adolescent with arousal issues is not the right match for a first-time foster — no matter how much love they have to give.
Our tiered certification system ensures fosters are matched to dogs within their demonstrated competency — protecting both the dog and the foster from experiences they're not yet equipped for.
Certification is required before placement. Higher levels unlock greater responsibility — and compensation.
Certification Levels
Five levels. Every level builds on the last. No skipping steps.
Easy-going dogs with minimal behavioral complexity.
Best for building fundamentals, confidence, and consistency.
Ideal for first-time fosters ready to learn.
Dogs requiring guidance, routine, and clear communication.
Apply foundational skills with greater awareness and intention.
Fosters comfortable with structure and follow-through.
Dogs with moderate behavioral complexity.
Requires skill in reading state of mind and managing arousal.
Experienced fosters with demonstrated handling skills.
High-intensity or behaviorally complex dogs.
Advanced handling, regulation, and experienced decision-making.
Proven fosters with a strong behavioral track record.
Dogs with complex medical, physical, or neurological needs.
Approval-gated. Requires verified prior experience.
Selected fosters with documented specialized experience.
Foster Requirements
Every foster in our program is expected to meet these baseline standards:
How to Become a Foster
A structured path from interested to certified to placed.
Start the Application
Complete a short foster interest form to help us understand your household, lifestyle, and capacity.
Complete Level 1 Certification
Work through the foundational curriculum covering dog behavior, communication, and placement fundamentals.
Get Matched
Once certified, you'll be eligible for placement. Matching Intelligence matches based on compatibility — not just availability.
Grow Your Certification
As you gain experience, advance through certification levels to work with dogs of greater complexity.
Ready to get started?
Begin your foster application. It takes 10–15 minutes and helps us understand your household, capacity, and experience so we can find the right match.
Free to apply. Certification is completed after acceptance.