Fostering at labncroft

For 138 years and four generations, Labncroft has raised Labrador Retrievers right here in Veedersburg, Indiana. Now we're doing something new — and we need good families to help.

We're raising a select group of our dogs for service work: dogs trained to help protect and comfort residents in skilled nursing and long-term care. But a working dog isn't made in a kennel. It's made in the real world — in living rooms, on sidewalks, in stores, around everyday people. That's where a foster family comes in.

How it works

What we provide, at no cost to you:

• Premium food, shipped to your door

• All veterinary care and every medication

• Crate, leashes, collars, grooming tools, and gear

• A clear training plan and our support the whole way

What you provide:

• A safe, loving home from about 20 weeks old to 12–14 months

• Upkeep of the basic obedience we've started

• Public outings once or twice a week, so the dog learns the world

Who makes a good foster?

• You've owned a dog before — this isn't your first.

• No intact (un-spayed or un-neutered) dog of the opposite sex in your home.

• You're within reasonable driving distance of us.

• You've got the time and heart to take a young dog out into the world.

Common questions

Does it cost anything? No. We cover food, vet care, gear, and medications. You provide the home and the love.

How long is the commitment? Roughly seven months — from about 20 weeks old until the dog is 12–14 months, then it returns to us.

What if I fall in love with the dog? Many fosters do. If a dog doesn't make the program, the family who raised it gets first choice to adopt.

Do I need special training experience? No — just real experience owning dogs. We guide you the whole way.

What if I already have a dog? Often fine — as long as it isn't an intact dog of the opposite sex. Just tell us about your pets when you apply.

Where do the dogs end up? They go on to help protect and comfort people in skilled nursing and long-term care settings.

Ready to help?