One of NSGA’s greatest strengths is our network of foster homes. Many of the greyhounds that enter our system come from tracks and greyhound farms across the U.S. Though the dogs have been trained in racing specific skills and are extremely well socialized, many have never been in a home environment. We rely on our foster homes, and our greyhound foster brothers and sisters, to help the retired racing greyhound make the transition from the life of a well-honed athlete to a life of retirement with the comforts of home. The duty of a foster home is simply to familiarize their foster dog(s) with family life, and to teach them the essential skills needed to live in a house with a people pack. The foster home experience helps the hounds make a smooth and successful transition into their forever homes.

Many people turn down the opportunity to foster, saying that they could never say goodbye to their foster when he is ready to leave for his home. If you are on the fence, ask yourself whether you would rather cry while proudly watching your foster leave your home, ready to live a full, good life with his own forever family, or would you prefer to cry for the dog that never had a chance to find his forever home because no one stepped up to foster.
Fostering is one of the most rewarding volunteer positions we have to offer. It’s hard to understand it until you’ve experienced it.

NSGA operates across three provinces, and because all our volunteers also lead busy lives exclusive to the world of Greys, we are often in need of drivers. Some drives can be a few hours long, like when a dog needs to be moved from one city to another. Other trips are short commutes and involve driving fosters to vet appointments or Meet and Greets. The short trips are just as important as the long ones.

All drivers must have their own greyhound friendly vehicles. NSGA happily reimburses mileage for our volunteer drivers.