Foster Homes Needed - Ruff Start Rescue

Foster Homes Needed - Ruff Start Rescue Ruff Start Rescue is looking for fosters to open their homes to animals in need. We also ask that you treat your foster animal the same as if it were your own.

Foster care is the most important part of Ruff Start Rescue and allows us to continue our lifesaving efforts! The animals depend on people to open their hearts and homes to them and care for them until they are adopted. An RSR foster's responsibility is to love, feed, play, exercise and provide social interaction for the foster animal. We ask that you take the animal to vet appointments and handle

any medical tasks such as giving daily medications. It's easy to get started! The first step is to fill out the foster signup form. Then you will hear from an RSR representative so you can learn more about what fostering entails and discuss any questions or concerns you have before bringing your first foster animal home. We are excited to save lives with you!

Foster Needed for Tyson!Tyson is a Ruff Start Rescue alumn who was adopted 7 years ago — and now he needs our help again...
04/26/2025

Foster Needed for Tyson!
Tyson is a Ruff Start Rescue alumn who was adopted 7 years ago — and now he needs our help again.
His owner can no longer care for him, so we’re looking for a foster to welcome this sweet boy back into the rescue.

Tyson is a 7-year-old, 55 lb boxer mix who’s neutered, crate trained (though he’s trusted out of the crate!), and fantastic with people, kids, dogs, and even cats!
He’s still playful and full of love, and his owner says he’s “the sweetest dog” — though he does get excited when meeting new people and might try to sneak a snack if you leave a plate unattended!

He may have a slight allergy that causes his eyes to swell when roughhousing with a certain neighbor dog, but it goes down quickly and hasn’t been a major concern.

Tyson is located in Crystal, MN. His vaccines will either be updated by his owner or taken care of through Ruff Start once he’s in foster.

Can you help Tyson start his second chapter?
Ruff Start provides all food, supplies, veterinary care, and unlimited support.

Sign up to foster here:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Let’s bring this sweet boy back home!

Meet Mushroom!This sweet, goofy boy was left behind in an apartment after someone moved out — but his spirit is still fu...
04/26/2025

Meet Mushroom!

This sweet, goofy boy was left behind in an apartment after someone moved out — but his spirit is still full of love!

When our volunteer went to meet him, he was so excited for pets that he flopped right into his water dish! (Seriously, how adorable is that?!)

Mushroom is about 2–3 years old, has the BEST chubby cheeks, and a heart just as big.

He’d be a perfect PetSmart kitty once he gets neutered and microchipped — he’s this close to finding his forever home! But first, he needs a foster.

Can you help him get there?

Pickup is in St. Paul. Ruff Start Rescue provides everything you need — food, supplies, vet care, and tons of support.

Sign up to foster here:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Let’s get Mushroom the happy ending he deserves!

FOSTER NEEDED for this sweet, growing girl!Hershey is a Ruff Start alum who’s in need of a fresh start — again. She was ...
04/24/2025

FOSTER NEEDED for this sweet, growing girl!

Hershey is a Ruff Start alum who’s in need of a fresh start — again. She was adopted just a week ago, but her family quickly realized they weren’t prepared for the puppy stage (especially the mouthy part!). So now this gorgeous pup is looking for a foster who can help her through the growing pains.

At 4.5 months old and already 50 lbs, Hershey is going to be a BIG girl — but she’s also shaping up to be a gentle giant. She’s already spayed, fully vaccinated, and ready to transition smoothly into a foster home.

Here’s what we love about Hershey:
• Bernese Mountain Dog / German Shepherd mix with a stunning coat
• Sweet, curious, and a total Velcro pup – she wants to be near her people
• Already learning commands and eager to please
• Gets along great with dogs and is respectful of cats (just a little playful chase here and there!)
• Calm for her age, loves walks, snuggles, and being a quiet observer of the world
• Not a barker – just a big ol’ cuddle bug with a whole lot of love to give

She’s looking for a foster home that can handle a large breed puppy who’s still learning boundaries and building confidence. With guidance and love, Hershey will absolutely thrive!

Located in Minnesota – ready for foster pick-up now.
Ruff Start provides all food, supplies, vet care, and non-stop support. You just provide a safe place and some love.

Apply to foster Hershey here:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Let’s help this big baby girl find her way back to stability and love!

Foster Needed for This Sweetheart!Meet Edgar (aka Copper) – the life of the party and the king of cuddle time! This goof...
04/23/2025

Foster Needed for This Sweetheart!

Meet Edgar (aka Copper) – the life of the party and the king of cuddle time! This goofy, lovable pup is looking for a new foster home (through no fault of his own!) and is currently located in Minneapolis.

Edgar is the total package:
• Loves people and other dogs
• Enjoys zooming around the yard and playing with toys (he even throws them for himself!)
• Big fan of bones, squeaky toys, AND couch snuggles
• Sleeps like a dream in bed with his current foster crew
• Polite on walks – no barking at other dogs or people
• Potty training and leash skills? Coming along great!

He’s got energy to play, but also loves his chill time. Honestly, this guy is a gem – fun, friendly, and full of love.

Ready to foster this perfect pup?
Ruff Start provides all food, supplies, vet care, and unlimited support – you just provide the love.

Apply here:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Let’s find Edgar the loving foster home he deserves!

Looking for a foster home!Who wants a gentle giant (with a little extra slobber for free)? Meet Maximus – a 1.5-year-old...
04/23/2025

Looking for a foster home!

Who wants a gentle giant (with a little extra slobber for free)? Meet Maximus – a 1.5-year-old Great Dane mix with a heart as big as his paws!

This sweet boy was found wearing a collar and leash, patiently waiting for someone who, sadly, never came back. Now he’s looking for a soft place to land and a kind soul to help him find his footing again.

Maximus is still learning the ropes – he could use some help with basic manners and a potty training refresher. He’s got a bit of a jumpy side, so a home without small kids may be best for now. Dog test coming soon – we’ll keep you posted!

Pickup in Maple Grove
Ruff Start provides ALL food, supplies, vet care, and support – you just provide the love.

Ready to open your heart and home? Sign up to foster here:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Let’s find this big guy the second chance he deserves!

Puppy Lovers, Meet Cole!Cole is a 3-month-old Shepherd mix with endless energy, a fearless spirit, and the cutest bark y...
04/22/2025

Puppy Lovers, Meet Cole!

Cole is a 3-month-old Shepherd mix with endless energy, a fearless spirit, and the cutest bark you ever did hear! This little adventurer loves exploring the great outdoors, chatting about his discoveries (no shared walls, please!), and chasing after his favorite squeaky toys.

Cole is a classic mouthy pup — so having plenty of chew toys is a must — and he’s working hard on potty training, leash walking, and kennel training. Smart boy alert!

Right now, Cole needs a new foster because his rough play style is a bit much for the resident dog in his current home. He’d do amazing with another playful, energetic dog buddy! Because he’s still learning how to be gentle, older kids would be the best match.

Already neutered and located in Duluth!

Ruff Start Rescue provides everything you need — food, supplies, vet care, and tons of support.
Ready to add some puppy love (and a little bit of chaos) to your life?
Apply to foster here: https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Let’s find Cole the perfect place to grow, play, and thrive!

Foster Needed for Woo! Help Break the Shelter Cycle!Meet Woo, a 2-year-old neutered pittie mix with a big heart and an e...
04/21/2025

Foster Needed for Woo! Help Break the Shelter Cycle!

Meet Woo, a 2-year-old neutered pittie mix with a big heart and an even bigger smile! This happy, mid-sized guy has unfortunately found himself bouncing between shelters — and we’re determined to get him back into a loving foster home with Ruff Start Rescue!

Woo loves people, loves car rides, and is full of that happy-go-lucky energy we all adore. He’s dog-selective, so slow introductions are a must, and while we don’t know how he is with cats, it’s safest to assume cats are a no-go.

Because Woo can be a little mouthy when excited, he might do best in a home without small children. But for the right foster, he’s ready to be the sweetest, most loyal companion!

Located in Minnesota and ready to roll into your life — Woo just needs someone to give him the chance he deserves.

Ruff Start Rescue provides all food, supplies, veterinary care, and unlimited support. You bring the love!

Ready to welcome Woo into your home?
Apply to foster here:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Please share — Woo deserves his fresh start!

Foster Needed for Sweet Duke!Meet Duke — the absolute cutest 8-year-old Boxer mix you’ll ever meet! This 50lb sweetheart...
04/21/2025

Foster Needed for Sweet Duke!

Meet Duke — the absolute cutest 8-year-old Boxer mix you’ll ever meet! This 50lb sweetheart needs a soft place to land after his owner sadly developed dementia.

Duke is already neutered, housetrained, and cat-friendly! He absolutely adores his sister (who’s already safe) and is known for his sweet and friendly nature. We don’t have info on how he does with kids, but with his loving personality, he’s sure to steal your heart.

Important note: Duke is a bit of an adventurer — he can jump and climb fences, so a double leash is required for walks. He’s truly worth the little extra care!

Duke is currently located in Minneapolis and is waiting for a foster hero to open their home.

Ruff Start Rescue provides everything you need — food, supplies, veterinary care, and unlimited support. All you bring is love!

Ready to be Duke’s hero? Apply to foster here:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Please share to help Duke find his safe place!

Say hello to Tuna — a 2-year-old, 66lb Lab mix with the cutest little wirehair you’ve ever seen! This handsome guy is ne...
04/19/2025

Say hello to Tuna — a 2-year-old, 66lb Lab mix with the cutest little wirehair you’ve ever seen! This handsome guy is neutered, full of love, and ready for a fresh start.

Tuna is a happy-go-lucky pup who adores kids, adults, and other friendly dogs. He’s been amazing with the kids in his current home and just loves being around his humans. Whether it’s going for a walk (he does great with a gentle harness!) or snuggling up for a nap, Tuna is down for whatever adventure — big or small.

Unfortunately, his current home has a senior grumpy dog and a cat who aren’t fans of his fun-loving spirit, so he’s looking for a foster to give him the space and love he deserves. His owners are even sending him with his crate, leash, and harness to help make the transition easy!
Note: Tuna does have occasional itchy skin, but he’s otherwise healthy and happy.

Tuna is located in Minneapolis and ready to head to foster!
Ruff Start Rescue provides all food, supplies, vet care, and unlimited support — all you need to do is open your heart and home.

Interested in fostering this sweet boy?
Apply here:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Let’s get Tuna the fresh start he deserves!

Looking for a foster hero!Meet Mud Skipper — a 2-year-old sweetheart with the most adorable unique markings you’ve ever ...
04/19/2025

Looking for a foster hero!

Meet Mud Skipper — a 2-year-old sweetheart with the most adorable unique markings you’ve ever seen!
She may have had a rough start as a stray, but you’d never guess it with how loving she is. The moment you meet her, she’s all about belly rubs, tail wags, and showing off her playful zoomies (especially with a tennis ball in her mouth!).
Mud Skipper is incredibly polite too — she’ll patiently sit for treats without even being asked!

She still needs some vetting and is currently located in Maple Grove.
Ruff Start Rescue provides everything you need to foster: food, supplies, vet care, and all the support you could ask for.

Ready to open your heart and home to this beautiful girl?
Sign up to foster here: https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Let’s find Mud Skipper the loving future she deserves!

Looking for a foster home for sweet Gelato!Meet Gelato, a stunning 1-year-old lady who’s full of life and love!She’s spa...
04/19/2025

Looking for a foster home for sweet Gelato!

Meet Gelato, a stunning 1-year-old lady who’s full of life and love!
She’s spayed and listed as a pitbull mix — but spend a little time with her and you’ll spot some Boxer and Border Collie traits too!

Gelato is a super social girl who loves other dogs and would thrive in a foster home with another active pup to wrestle and play with. She has tons of energy and her play style leans into full-on wrestling matches — perfect for a dog that loves to roughhouse!

Because she’s still working on her mouthiness when she gets overstimulated (and can get a little grabby with treats and toys), we recommend no small kids for now. But when she’s in a calm environment? She’s an amazing cuddler and a total sweetheart. She’s eager to please, and with the right exercise and training, she’s going to make someone a truly fun and loyal companion.

Ready to foster Gelato and help her shine?
Ruff Start Rescue provides everything you need — food, supplies, veterinary care, and unlimited support.

Apply to foster today:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Let’s find this gorgeous girl the home she deserves!

New Foster Home Needed for Sweet Bonita!Meet Bonita — the ultimate snuggle buddy! This sweet girl is always ready to gre...
04/17/2025

New Foster Home Needed for Sweet Bonita!

Meet Bonita — the ultimate snuggle buddy! This sweet girl is always ready to greet you at the door and loves nothing more than cuddling up on the couch as close as possible. She’s housetrained, well-mannered (no chewing disasters here!), great in the car, and sleeps peacefully in her crate at night — as long as her people are nearby.

Bonita does have some separation anxiety and barks when left alone, so she would thrive in a home where someone works from home or where she has a furry friend to keep her company. She’s smart, quick to learn new commands, and while she gets a little excited on walks (especially when squirrels are involved!), she’s improving every day!
• Good with dogs and kids (cats unknown)
• Located in Minneapolis
• Needs a new foster because her current foster is receiving landlord complaints due to her barking when left alone.

Bonita came all the way from Texas and is hoping to find a loving home to help her feel safe and loved again!

Ruff Start Rescue provides ALL food, supplies, vet care, and unlimited support.
You provide the love and a safe place to land.

Interested in fostering Bonita? Sign up here:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Please share — help us find Bonita her new safe spot!

Meet Dexter – Your New Best Friend (even if just for a little while!)Look at this handsome boy! Dexter is a 2ish-year-ol...
04/17/2025

Meet Dexter – Your New Best Friend (even if just for a little while!)

Look at this handsome boy! Dexter is a 2ish-year-old Pitty mix with a beautiful brindle coat and a heart full of love. When a Ruff Start Rescue volunteer met him, he was ALL about the pets and human attention – super friendly, a great listener (he already knows how to sit!), not overly jumpy, and he takes treats ever so gently.

Dexter still needs some vetting and is currently located in Maple Grove.
He just needs a soft place to land — could it be with you?

Ruff Start Rescue provides EVERYTHING you need to foster: food, supplies, vet care, and unlimited support.
You provide the love, and together, we help Dexter find his forever home.

Interested? Sign up to foster here:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Please share to help Dexter find his temporary hero!

Foster Needed for Sweet Solo Piggy!Meet Gumball – a 3-year-old male guinea pig with a heart as big as his name is cute! ...
04/10/2025

Foster Needed for Sweet Solo Piggy!

Meet Gumball – a 3-year-old male guinea pig with a heart as big as his name is cute! His previous owner says he’s super sweet and loves being around people. He’s currently flying solo and could use a loving foster home while we find him a forever family.

Gumball might need a little vetting for mites, but don’t worry – Ruff Start Rescue covers all vet care, food, supplies, and support. All you need to bring is the love!

Located in Eagan, MN – let’s get this little guy comfy and cozy ASAP!

Ready to foster? Sign up here:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Please share to help Gumball find his temporary home!

🐾 Meet Queen! 🐾This sweet 10-month-old Shepherd mix was abandoned by her previous owner in a park, left to navigate the ...
04/08/2025

🐾 Meet Queen! 🐾

This sweet 10-month-old Shepherd mix was abandoned by her previous owner in a park, left to navigate the world alone. Despite her rough start, Queen is an absolute gem! She’s a little shy at first but warms up quickly and loves to greet new friends with excitement. 💖

Queen already knows some commands like “sit” and “shake,” and takes treats gently—such a good girl! She has lots of playful puppy energy but can also calm down when needed. She will need some help with potty training, but we’re confident she’ll catch on fast!

Queen would thrive in a loving foster home where she can feel safe and cared for. If you’re in the Maple Grove area and have the time and love to offer, we’d love for you to foster Queen! 🏡

Ruff Start Rescue provides all food, supplies, veterinary care, and unlimited support for our fosters. 🙌

Ready to give Queen the second chance she deserves? Click the link to sign up and make a difference in her life today!
👉 https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

🐾 MEET GIZMO: A LITTLE DOG WITH A BIG HEART WHO NEEDS A FOSTER HOME! 🐾Gizmo is a 6-year-old, 20lb Cairn Terrier mix with...
04/03/2025

🐾 MEET GIZMO: A LITTLE DOG WITH A BIG HEART WHO NEEDS A FOSTER HOME! 🐾

Gizmo is a 6-year-old, 20lb Cairn Terrier mix with a whole lot of personality—and a little underbite to make him extra adorable! 😄 He’s in need of a new foster home due to his current adopter facing serious health issues.

Why Gizmo needs you:
• 🏢 Needs a safer, calmer environment: Gizmo currently lives in a senior apartment complex, and with so many people and dogs around, he doesn’t feel very safe. He’s been a bit protective of his adopter, barking at people he doesn’t trust.
• 🐾 Low exercise & pent-up energy: Without much opportunity for exercise, Gizmo has some extra energy that he’s been letting out with barking. He’d thrive in a home where he can get some physical and mental stimulation!
• 🧸 Needs structure & training: Gizmo needs a home with some structure and patience to help him feel secure. He can be a little unruly, but with consistency and love, he’ll do great!
• 💕 Loyal & protective: Like many small dogs, Gizmo wants to feel safe with his humans so he doesn’t feel the need to protect them. He needs someone who understands his need for security.

If you’re experienced with small dogs and can provide the care and structure Gizmo needs, Ruff Start Rescue will provide all food, supplies, veterinary care, and unlimited support to help you along the way.

👉 Sign up here to foster Gizmo:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Help this little guy find his calm, happy place while he waits for his forever home! 🐾

🐾 MEET KAGNEY MARIE: A SWEET & AFFECTIONATE GIRL IN NEED OF A FOSTER HOME! 🐾Kagney Marie is a 4-year-old, 55lb pit mix w...
04/02/2025

🐾 MEET KAGNEY MARIE: A SWEET & AFFECTIONATE GIRL IN NEED OF A FOSTER HOME! 🐾

Kagney Marie is a 4-year-old, 55lb pit mix who’s as playful as she is affectionate! She’s house-trained, sleeps through the night, and can be left free in the home without needing a kennel. She loves cuddling, treats, and toys, and is great with cats and kids! 💕

Here’s a little more about this sweet girl:
• 🐕 Dog-friendly: She’s good with small dogs but can be a bit nervous around larger dogs. Slow introductions are key! She’s done well with training and responds well to redirection.
• 🍗 Allergy concerns: Kagney may have a possible chicken allergy, but she’s still a big fan of treats and snacks (without chicken)!
• 🏠 Home-trained: She listens well, respects boundaries (no kitchen without an invite!), and doesn’t get on furniture (though she’s been spoiled a bit lately 😉).
• 🚗 Car rides: She’s an awesome co-pilot and loves going places!
• ✅ Fully vaccinated, healthy, and well-cared-for.

Kagney Marie’s current owner has put a lot of love and training into her, and now they need a foster to help her find her next chapter. Could you be the one to give her a safe, loving temporary home?

Ruff Start Rescue provides all food, supplies, veterinary care, and unlimited support for all fosters.

👉 Sign up to foster Kagney here:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Help us ensure this sweet girl gets the love she deserves while she waits for her forever family. 🐾

🐾 URGENT FOSTER NEEDED FOR JACK JACK! 🐾Meet Jack Jack, a sweet and playful pup who’s in need of a temporary foster due t...
04/01/2025

🐾 URGENT FOSTER NEEDED FOR JACK JACK! 🐾

Meet Jack Jack, a sweet and playful pup who’s in need of a temporary foster due to a family emergency. His current foster needs to travel out of state, so Jack Jack is looking for a safe, loving home until he’s able to find his forever family.

A little about Jack Jack:
• He’s playful and loves to snuggle up on the couch after burning off some energy.
• He’s crate trained! While he might whine a bit at first, he settles down and sleeps through the night.
• He’s great on walks and loves to be outside.
• Jack Jack does best as the only pet in the home and would need slow introductions to new animals.

Located in Woodbury. If you think you could give Jack Jack the temporary home he needs, please sign up to foster today! Ruff Start Rescue provides all food, supplies, veterinary care, and 24/7 support.

Let’s help Jack Jack find his way to his next adventure!

👉 Sign up here to foster:
https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/

Address

Princeton, MN
55371

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