Become A Foster Family
Why should I foster?
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It saves lives!
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We rescue dogs from homelessness, from shelters, from owner surrenders, and from death row
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We save dogs who need medical attention and help restore their quality of life
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Seeing the turnaround is indescribable!
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Helping shy and timid dogs come out of their shell
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Guiding them to learn to trust again and feel safe
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Showing them they are loved
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Allowing them time to heal from medical issues
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Teaching them how to play with toys and eat peanut butter
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You'll give a dog a chance to shine!
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Training a dog to know it's basic manners and become a successful part of the family
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Providing structure and a routine in which they can thrive
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You'll make new friends!
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Your resident pets will have a temporary playmate or snuggle buddy
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You'll get tons of extra love, kisses and snuggles
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You'll have a walking partner
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You'll make someone else's family complete!
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You'll have the final say on their forever family
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You'll see the joy on kids faces as they love on their new family member
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Things to know:
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The average foster time is 2-6 weeks
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The rescue covers all approved medical bills and medications
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Your resident dogs must be up to date on vaccines and spayed/neutered
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You can foster even if you don't have resident dogs
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If you need to go out of town, the rescue arranges and provides care for your foster
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If you fall in love, there is always the potential for you to adopt according to our policies
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If you are away from the home for 8 or more hours a day, then a midday break would be required for your foster dog.
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Fostering is flexible
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The rescue can partner you with fosters who meet certain criteria (i.e. only senior dogs, only female dogs, etc.)
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We welcome seasonal fosters or part-time fosters
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Are you ready to give a dog a safe place to stay until their Forever home is found?
Real Stories. Real Impact.
For Brett and Jana Winters, helping dogs has always been part of who they are.
Their journey started about 12 years ago when Brett stopped Oreo, a black Lab, from being surrendered to a shelter. Today, 12-year-old Oreo is still part of their family, along with Onyx, a 6-year-old LRGR alum.
When they began fostering for Lab Rescue of Greater Richmond a little over a year ago, they knew there was one thing they would have to be prepared for: saying goodbye.
“We both feared becoming attached to the dogs we would foster and not want to give them up.”
And they were right. They have gotten attached to every foster in one way or another.
But they've also learned that letting go can be one of the most rewarding parts of fostering.
One of their favorite memories was Sugar, an 8-year-old chocolate Lab who arrived frightened and overwhelmed. She hid in a corner, unsure of the world around her. Then Brett and Jana pulled out a tennis ball.
Suddenly, Sugar came alive. ❤️
She ran. She played. She chased the ball.
“She became a completely different dog. It was amazing to see her come out of her shell.”
That is what keeps the Winters fostering.
They've learned how incredibly resilient dogs are—and just how many dogs need help.
And when a foster leaves for their forever home, they don't simply disappear from their lives. The Winters keep in touch with adopters, receive updates, and have even pupsat for former fosters.
“Seeing a dog go from a shelter and living scared, to living a beach life chasing balls in the water every day, is such a beautiful thing.”
Their advice to anyone thinking about fostering?
“If you have the ability to do it, you won't regret it.”
Fostering can be challenging. It can take you out of your comfort zone. It can make you learn things you never expected to learn.
But it also gives a shelter the ability to free a kennel, gives a dog a second chance, and helps a family find the right dog for them.
And sometimes, you get to watch a scared dog discover how wonderful life can be.
The Neely Family
Every foster story is unique — and this one is full of love, laughter, and Labs who’ve shaped a family’s heart.
The Neelys are lifelong dog people. Their beloved Labs, Winnie and Pluto, are the center of their home and the reason they began fostering. Over the years, they’ve loved and lost other dogs who remain part of their story — each one leaving paw prints that led them here.
How Their Foster Journey Began
It started when they saw a dog on LRGR’s Instagram who looked just like Winnie. They applied immediately — and even though that dog had already found a foster, it opened the door to something special. They joked that Winnie needed a “summer job,” and mentoring fosters turned out to be her calling.
What Fostering Has Taught Them
They learned that patience, space, and trust can transform a dog’s world. Winnie has become a gentle teacher, helping each foster feel safe and loved. Fostering has given her confidence and purpose — and brought joy to the whole family.
Favorite Moments
There’s always that moment when a foster finally relaxes , tail wagging, a playful bounce, a smile that says “I’m home.” For Pluto, it was the day he felt safe enough to play with a toy. It took time, but it was pure magic.
Support From LRGR
From freedom rides to medical guidance and behavior support, LRGR’s foster team has been there every step of the way. The Neelys say they’ve never felt alone — even after adoption day.
The Goodbyes
Goodbyes are bittersweet, but seeing fosters thrive in their new homes makes it all worth it. The Neelys stay in touch with adopters and love watching their former fosters live their best lives.
Their Message to Anyone Considering Fostering
“Give it a try! You’ll be completely supported. You’ll watch the dog transform every day. Being part of their journey is just the best.”
Fostering saves lives — and you won’t do it alone. If the Neely family’s story inspires you, we’d love to talk about fostering with LRGR.