Here are answers to our most frequently asked questions regarding PRoNE Volunteer positions. Volunteers are the backbone of our organization. Without volunteers, we wouldn’t be able to save pugs. Giving back has never felt this good! Please read through the FAQs prior to completing our Volunteer Application.
Is there an application fee to volunteer?
Absolutely not! We do not charge a fee to apply to help. 🙂
How old do I have to be to volunteer?
We ask that volunteers be over 18 to work with our organization. Fosters must be 25 or older. If you are younger than 18, there are lots of ways you can help PRoNE: organize a fundraiser and donate the proceeds to PRoNE: think lemonade stand, bake sale, etc. Do you sew? You can volunteer to make belly bands for PRoNE pugs who need a little reminding when they come in to foster care. Fill out the Volunteer Application and we will be in touch. Have a great idea for PRoNE? Let us know!
I cannot foster, but am happy to help in another way:
Great! We need volunteers to conduct home visits (for potential adopters and foster homes), call on vet and reference checks, represent PRoNE at events, bake for events, transport pugs, etc. You can volunteer for as little or as much as your schedule allows.
I would like to foster, what happens next?
After you apply, your application is forwarded to our Foster Application Team. It can take up to 4 weeks to process an application to foster. We check vet & personal references, conduct an interview and a home visit. To expedite the process, be sure to let your vet & personal references know we’ll be calling.
Who pays for food?
You are responsible for paying for daily food and treats. Fosters should have an available crate or area where the foster pug can be safely kept when left alone at first. We prefer harnesses are used on our foster pugs.
Who pays for vet visits?
PRoNE will cover all PRE-APPROVED vet care. Vet visits are only done with prior PRoNE approval, unless the situation is an emergency. We will instruct you regarding emergencies prior to receiving your first foster pug.
Can I adopt my foster pug?
No. We ask that our foster homes foster THREE times prior to making a decision to keep a foster pug. You will fall in love with each foster pugs you have – but you are also doing a great service to the families who are waiting for their perfect match. When you see those matches, you will understand it’s worth it. 🙂
I am approved to foster! What happens next?
Once approved, your application goes to the Intake Manager. She will contact you when there is a need in your area. Please be aware, our need fluctuates and can sometimes be very short notice (less than a day in emergency situations). If this is an issue for you, please let us know.
Do I need to meet the surrendering owner?
Yes. Foster parents will meet the surrendering owner in a public place – we advise you to take along a friend to help out if possible. The owner will sign a release form, and you take possession of the pug. The Owner is instructed to provide all vet records to us prior to surrender, but may have paper copies for you.
What about the paperwork?
We ask that all PRoNE documentation (the release form, adoption forms and adoption fees from adopting owners) be forwarded to PRoNE no less than 3 days after they are received. This helps us keep up-to-date with our records.
Will a foster pug be house trained?
Most of the time, a foster pug IS house trained, although it is not unusual for a foster to have some accidents the first few days. We encourage frequent bathroom breaks, and lots and lots of patience and praise. We also recommend belly bands for the boys (especially if there is another pug in the home). Belly bands can be provided. This behavior usually diminshes after a few days.
Are PRoNE foster pugs spayed, neutered and up-to-date on shots?
Foster pugs come in to rescue in all states. Some need to be fully vetted (spayed/neutered, tested for heartworm and brought up to date on shots). Others are completely up-to-date. PRoNE will pay for the pre-approved vet visits.
How do I tell PRoNE about my foster pug?
You will receive a Questionairre via email from our Social Media Manager who writes bios for Petfinder and Facebook. You will answer the questions, and provide pictures of your foster pug.
What happens if I have a problem with a PRoNE foster pug?
Please contact us immediately. If you need advice about a behavior, we have a volunteer trainer who can speak with you. If you believe a foster pug is sick, our Foster Home Manager will work with you to be sure that the pug gets the care it needs. It’s not unusual for both foster and pug to go through a bit of a transition – a few days usually. Once that initial time passes, both you and the foster pug will settle into a new routine and you will find that fostering, while hard work sometimes, really can bring you and your family great joy.