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    Policy & Philosophy

    An Unpopular Opinion About Fostering (and Why We Respect It)

    2026-08-01The Comeback Pack2 min read
    Rickey Henderson, a black rescue dog and The Comeback Pack's very first rescue, currently available for foster or adoption

    "I know this might be an unpopular opinion."

    That's how we started a recent post, and we meant every word.

    As a rescue, we desperately need more foster homes. We have incredible dogs waiting for families every single day. But when someone tells us they can't adopt or foster because their own dog isn't safe with other dogs... we don't feel disappointed. We feel respect.

    Too Many Dogs Lose Their Homes Over This

    Some dogs become reactive. Some are dog-selective. Some simply need careful management around other animals. The easy choice, for a lot of owners, would be to give up on a dog who develops behavioral challenges like these.

    Instead, the owners we're talking about rearrange their lives.

    • They manage introductions.
    • They avoid situations that set their dog up to fail.
    • They advocate for their dog and keep their commitment.

    That's responsible dog ownership. Full stop.

    If your dog truly needs to be the only dog in the home for everyone's safety, thank you for honoring that commitment. We have nothing but respect for people who stick by the dogs they've promised to love.

    Don't Count Yourself Out Before Talking to Us

    If you're not sure whether your dog could handle a foster in the house, don't assume the answer is no. Many dogs simply need slow, thoughtful introductions and good management — and that's something we can help you figure out.

    We'd much rather talk it through with you than have you rule yourself out before we've even had the conversation.

    If your home is a good fit for fostering, we'd love to have you join the pack. ❤️

    Meet Our Sweet Model, Rickey Henderson

    The dog who helped us make this point wasn't a stranger — it was Rickey Henderson, our very first Comeback Pack rescue.

    Rickey is:

    • Great with kids
    • Great with dogs
    • Great with cats
    • House trained
    • Crate trained
    • Great on leash
    • Sweet, gentle, and ready for his forever home

    He's currently available for foster or adoption. You can read his full rescue story and apply on our website.

    Ready to Talk It Through?

    The Comeback Pack is a foster-based rescue in Murrieta, California. Learn more, apply to foster, or start an adoption application at thecomebackpack.org.

    Not sure if your home is the right fit? Message us — we'd rather talk it through than have you count yourself out.

    Watch the original post on Facebook.

    Think your home might be a fit?

    Whether you can foster or adopt, we'd love to talk it through with you.

    Apply to Foster