Foster Phone Screener

Established in 2016, Fetch + Releash is a volunteer run dog rescue dedicated to saving dogs in need. Our foster dogs come from a variety of different backgrounds such as pounds and shelters, strays and surrendered pets, both locally and abroad. Through our network of volunteers, foster homes, trainers and veterinarians, we strive to give every dog the loving forever family they deserve. As a foster-based dog rescue, our foster dogs live in private homes across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) where they receive the love and attention they need to prepare them for adoption.

Our Mission

Adoption

By collaborating with local and international communities, our mission is to save dogs in danger of homelessness, abuse, neglect or euthanasia. Once in our care, we match each dog with the loving forever family they deserve.

Advocacy

In addition to re-homing dogs, we are passionate about advocating for animal rights and educating the public on relevant issues such as:

• Backyard breeding
• Overpopulation and the importance of spay & neuter
• Chained animals

Dogs are sentient beings with the right to nutritious food, a life enriched with adequate exercise and mental stimulation, veterinary care and love.

Education

A dog is a lifetime commitment and not to be discarded due to health, lifestyle change or inconvenience. Some of the top reasons dogs end up in shelters are lack of training, lifestyle changes (i.e. new baby, marriage), relocation, cost of dog ownership, not enough time for pet etc. Our goal is to ensure our adoptive families are well versed in the realities of dog ownership and ready to make a lifetime commitment.

Volunteer Commitment
Fetch + Releash is powered by dedicated volunteers. Communication, accountability, commitment, and reliability are key to our success in finding dogs their forever homes.

Before applying, please ensure volunteering fits into your current commitments.

Your support makes a difference!

Position Summary:

Foster Phone Screeners play a key role in helping dogs find safe and suitable foster homes by conducting thorough interviews with prospective foster families. In this remote volunteer position, screeners connect with applicants via video call to assess their experience, environment, and readiness to foster. They also complete virtual home tours, check references, and ensure all documentation is accurately recorded in a timely manner. Because applications move quickly, this role thrives in a fast‑paced environment and is ideal for volunteers with an easygoing attitude, organized, personable and a strong passion for rescue.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Reach out to the potential applicants within 24 hours of assignment to schedule the video call interview.
• Complete the (60-75 min+) interview, virtual home visit and reference checks within 72 hours of assignment (depending on interview availability of the foster applicants).
• Ensure the appropriate documentation is completed and is uploaded to the database within 24 hours of the interview.
• Ensure our Google tracking sheet is kept up-to-date.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Number of direct reports: 0

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

As part of the Foster team and under the guidance and direction of the Assistant Foster Manager, works independently as well as part of a team.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• 100% Remote
• Completing 4 hours of comprehensive training divided into sessions
• Training is delivered virtually; a computer with a camera is required
• 2–5 hours per week depending on organizational need

QUALIFICATIONS & ATTRIBUTES

• Dog Experience: Basic understanding of dog behaviour, etiquette, and positive‑reinforcement training
• Reliability: Consistently meets deadlines and completes at least three screens per month.
• Adaptability: Able to adjust conversations naturally and think on the spot.
• Strong Communication: Clear, friendly, and confident when speaking with applicants.
• Fast‑Paced Work Style: Manages multiple tasks and timelines efficiently.
• Calm Under Pressure: Maintains a positive, composed attitude in challenging situations.
• Organized & Detail‑Oriented: Accurately completes documentation and keeps records updated.
• Team Player: Works well independently and collaboratively within the foster team.
• Tech Proficiency: Comfortable using Google Meet, Sheets, Docs, and Gmail.
• Relationship‑Building Skills: Builds rapport and maintains professional, supportive interactions.

What Fetch + Releash offers:

• Join a community of supportive dog lovers.
• Training, resources, and guidance.
• Flexible volunteering that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
• Rewarding experience of fulfilling our mission to helping dogs find their forever homes.
• Exclusive engagement opportunities for active volunteers.

We ask that only those who can make a serious long-term commitment of 1yr to volunteering with Fetch +Releash apply for this role.