Foster homes are an integral part of any breed rescue organization. Foster homes allow rescue organizations to take in dogs and help with animal evaluation, including behavioral and medical issues, while preparing the dog for a new home.

Foster homes should be prepared to keep a foster dog anywhere from 1-6 months, depending on age, temperament and medical problems. Foster homes need to understand that by opening their home to a rescue animal, that particular dog in need has a place to go and be cared for until it is adopted.

Foster homes are provided with all essentials the dog may need at the time including: reimbursement for spay/neuter; heartworm treatment; standard vaccinations appropriate for the individual dog; micro-chipping; worming; and any other medical attention the dog may need at the time it is taken into rescue or while in foster care.

Issues a foster home will be dealing with are things such as: housebreaking; crate training; basic obedience; socialization; exercise; grooming; and, food aggression.

Fostering an Alaskan Malamute is just as much a challenge for the individual as for the rescue dog itself. Alaskan Malamute’s are a powerful, intelligent breed, that is laid back but at the same time very stubborn and become bored easily. With this in mind, remember that a Malamute (as with many other breeds of dogs) can be destructive if left unattended for long periods of time.

The Alaskan Malamute is a known digger, whether it is digging up landscape beds, small bushes or carving out a spot to lay down in the yard. By nature, the Malamute has a very high/keen prey drive - going after cats, birds, squirrels, rabbits and any other small animals that may invade or cross their territory. As a born runner, the Malamute cannot be let loose off leash or in an unconfined area. The Alaskan Malamute also is highly prone to gender aggression with dogs of the same sex.

At the same time, the Alaskan Malamute makes a wonderful companion. They are very people friendly and enjoy hiking, biking, running, swimming and other sports or just cuddling up to watch TV with their owners.

Click here to fill out a Foster Home Application.