Foster-to-Adopt Trial Terms & Conditions

The Foster-to-Adopt Program is designed to allow approved adopters the opportunity to ensure the dog is a suitable match for their family and lifestyle before finalizing the adoption. By participating in this program, you acknowledge and agree to the following terms and conditions:

1. Trial Period

  • The Foster-to-Adopt trial period is 14 consecutive calendar days, beginning on the day the dog is picked up or delivered.

  • The purpose of the trial is to determine whether the dog is a suitable long-term fit for your household.

  • The trial period is not intended as a temporary pet-sitting arrangement or short-term companionship.

2. Deposit

  • A non-refundable 50% deposit of the adoption donation is required before the dog is released into your care.

  • The deposit demonstrates your commitment to the adoption process and reserves the dog during the trial period.

  • If the adoption is completed, the deposit will be applied toward the total adoption donation.

3. Ownership During Trial

  • The dog remains the legal property of Snow Dog Rescue Society throughout the entire Foster-to-Adopt trial.

  • You may not transfer, sell, give away, breed, or otherwise rehome the dog during the trial period.

  • All decisions regarding the dog's veterinary care, relocation, or permanent placement remain at the discretion of Snow Dog Rescue Society.

4. Care Requirements

During the trial you agree to:

  • Provide safe, clean, indoor housing and appropriate shelter.

  • Provide fresh food and water at all times.

  • Exercise and mentally stimulate the dog appropriately.

  • Supervise interactions with children and other animals.

  • Keep the dog safely contained at all times.

5. Leash & Safety Requirements

  • The dog must remain on a leash or secure long line whenever in an unfenced area.

  • The dog must never be allowed off leash unless inside a fully fenced and secure area approved for the dog's abilities.

  • Extra caution must be used around unfamiliar dogs, busy public places, livestock, wildlife, and potential escape situations.

  • You understand that many rescue dogs are flight risks and may attempt to escape during the adjustment period.

6. Veterinary Care

  • Snow Dog Rescue Society remains responsible for approving all veterinary treatment during the foster period.

  • You agree to notify us immediately if the dog becomes sick or injured.

  • Except in a genuine emergency where immediate treatment is necessary to prevent suffering or loss of life, you must obtain approval before seeking veterinary treatment.

  • You agree to transport the dog to scheduled veterinary appointments if requested.

7. Communication

You agree to:

  • Join the dog's designated WhatsApp group (or other communication platform).

  • Provide regular updates, photos, and videos.

  • Promptly report any medical concerns, behavioural concerns, escapes, bites, injuries, or incidents involving the dog.

8. Training & Behaviour

  • You understand that rescue dogs require time to adjust to a new environment.

  • You agree to use only humane, positive reinforcement training methods.

  • You agree to work with Snow Dog Rescue Society regarding behavioural concerns rather than making independent decisions to return or rehome the dog.

9. If You Decide Not to Adopt

  • If you decide the dog is not the right fit, you agree to notify Snow Dog Rescue Society as soon as possible.

  • You agree to continue fostering the dog until Snow Dog Rescue Society is able to arrange an appropriate foster transfer or adoption placement.

  • You understand that immediate removal may not be possible, and your cooperation helps minimize unnecessary transitions and stress for the dog.

10. Completing the Adoption

  • If you choose to adopt, the remaining balance of the adoption donation must be paid before ownership is transferred.

  • Ownership officially transfers only after:

    • the adoption donation has been paid in full;

    • the Adoption Agreement has been completed; and

    • Snow Dog Rescue Society confirms the adoption is finalized.

11. Refund Policy

  • If you choose to proceed with the adoption, the adoption donation becomes subject to the Snow Dog Rescue Society Adoption Agreement.

  • Adoption donations are not refundable after 48 hours following finalization of the adoption.

12. Return of the Dog

Snow Dog Rescue Society reserves the right to immediately reclaim the dog during the foster trial if:

  • these terms are violated;

  • the dog is neglected, abused, or placed in unsafe conditions;

  • false information was provided during the application process;

  • the dog's welfare is at risk; or

  • continued placement is deemed unsuitable by Snow Dog Rescue Society.

13. Assumption of Risk

You understand that rescue dogs may have unknown medical conditions, behavioural challenges, fears, or reactions despite behavioural assessments and veterinary examinations.

You voluntarily assume all normal risks associated with fostering the dog, including the possibility of property damage, injury, or interactions with people or animals. Snow Dog Rescue Society cannot guarantee the dog's future behaviour, temperament, compatibility, or health.

14. Agreement

By participating in the Foster-to-Adopt Program and signing this agreement, you confirm that:

  • You have read and understood these terms.

  • You agree to comply with all conditions during the trial period.

  • You understand that the dog remains the property of Snow Dog Rescue Society until the adoption has been finalized.

  • You acknowledge that the purpose of this program is to ensure a successful lifelong placement for both you and the dog.