Looking to add a little warmth and wagging tails to your holiday season? The Potter League for Animals is bringing back its popular Host a Howliday Houseguest program, offering Rhode Islanders the chance to foster a shelter dog from Dec. 22 through Dec. 27.
The short-term foster initiative matches shelter dogs with local families for four to six days, giving the animals a much-needed break from the shelter environment while providing companionship during the holiday week.
“Right now, as our corner of the world feels heavy and uncertain, many are seeking comfort and connection,” the organization said in announcing the program’s return. “Fostering a dog—even for just a few days—can bring warmth, healing, and unexpected joy to both pets and people.”
The Potter League provides all food, supplies and support, making the program accessible for first-time fosters. Participants will meet their potential foster dog in advance to ensure a good match. Those with dogs at home will be asked to bring them along for an introduction.
To participate, fosters must be 18 or older, reside in Rhode Island, and live within 40 miles of the Potter League Animal Care & Adoption Center in Middletown. No previous fostering experience is required.
For more information or to sign up, visit potterleague.org/our-events/howliday-foster-2025.
