Homecheck? And what to ask 'foster mum'. Help please!!

[Inthepotty]

Have been on waiting list for a rescue dog, to compliment our lab x.

Rescue have got in touch and said they think they have the perfect dog for our family set up; a terrier x (possibly collie, possibly something else!). I originally said I wasn't looking for a terrier, however foster mum has been very surprised by how non-terrier like this little girl is... She's in foster with Labradors and seems to just fit in nicely with them. Not a big chaser of small furries, quite relaxed at home, playful with other dogs of all shape and size, confident meeting new people, and very loving of little people!

Have had homecheck arranged, am now sooooo nervous about it! Scared ill panic and stutter my way through interview! Any idea what to expect?

Have had a brief chat with foster mum on phone earlier, however I was burning cooking tea at the time and am calling her back tommorow. What shall I ask her?

Any help greatfully received!

OK, home check first. Home check is NOT to interrogate you or to judge you on the state of your dusting.

Home check is an opportunity for the charity to get to know you, and for you to ask questions/get to know the charity and the dog. Homecheckers are looking to make sure that your home is suitable for a dog so will be looking at things like garden fencing (depending on breed) if you have a garden, understanding the makeup of the family (adults, children, other pets, other dogs), your experience with dogs - both generally and with this breed. They will want to make sure that all adults understand and are signed up to the commitment involved. They will ask general questions about your lifestyle so that they can see you will match the dog (working hours, time available for exercise etc, budget for food and so on)

Questions to ask foster mum - tell us about her personality, favourite foods, diet, exercise, toys, when was she last wormed/flea treated/tick etc.

Is she spayed and chipped? Any known health issues? How is her training? How does she travel in the car? What is her recall like? Does she live with other dogs, and if so how does she get on with them? If left at home, any signs of separation anxiety? What is known about her history? Where does she sleep? Does she chew/pinch things/dig holes? Any allergies? What sort of grooming/skin care does she need? Is she a counter surfer? Has she already done any classes/activities - things like KC Good Citizen, obedience, agility etc.

Good luck, I'm sure you will be fine

Thanks so much Scuttle for that brilliant answer!

Will quiz foster mum in morning. Have already had long phone conversation with rescue lady, had a good grilling which I'm glad about as want o make sure we are the best possible home. If all goes well with homecheck and both rescue and I are happy, will hopefully get to meet her next week and see how we do...