Need advice to become pet foster parent

**wicnone** · 12-23-2002, 03:43 PM

I have a 4 yr old terrier mix. She looks exactly like Benji and her name is Missy. I found her a couple of years ago. I want to become a pet foster parent, however Missy passionately hates other dogs. She isn't much of a people person either. I know how to work on the people part but how do I get her not to attack or hate other dogs? I want her to be friendly and accepting of any dog I bring into my home.

**lv4dogs** · 12-23-2002, 03:54 PM

This will take a bit of work & patience. First I would enroll her into an obedience class & possibly check w/ the trainer see if you can enroll her into a puppy socialization class. Second get her out as much as possible, for car rides, walks, etc... everywhere possible. Maybe get a freind or relative w/ dogs & slowly introduce them (on neutral ground like a park or something). Always remember to praise everytime she behaves properly. Has she been this way her entire life? Is she spayed? They say spayed female dogs are the most aggressive towards each other so if so I would start to introduce her to males at first. The obedience trainer should be able to help you out as well as a behaviorist. Good luck

**KYS** · 12-24-2002, 05:41 PM

You can try with training, but not all dogs can live with other dogs. That's why some shelters will say, must be only pet
or no children etc. in household.
Adding a new dog to a household can be very tramatic
for your terrier if she doesn't like other animals.
I would take it slow, and "not force" the issue if
socializing/training with other dogs does not work out.

**wicnone** · 12-30-2002, 04:02 PM

Thank you guys for your advice....It is really appreciated!

**tatsxxx11** · 12-30-2002, 06:28 PM

If fostering is not possible, there are many other links in the adoption chain which are just as important!!! I do resuce work with Retriever and all breed rescue groups. I do some transporting and phone screen applicants and do homechecks for those who wish to adopt. Contact a rescue group that you want to help and ask how you can offer assistance. There are many important roles to fill in the adoption/save a life/process! Good luck with Missy and her socialization! And don't be discouraged if fostering isn't the right thing for you right now. You can still help to save a life!!