This post originally ran in 2023.  Having trouble finding foster caregivers? These six questions can help guide you toward a successful strategy.  1. Is it easy to become a foster caregiver at your rescue organization? Research shows that the organizations with the biggest foster programs have quick and easy onboarding processes. Organizations that require things like… Learn More

Summer is just around the corner and we have just what you need to keep the kids entertained (for a little while anyways). Maddie’s® Tail Wag activity book is available for two different age groups and is designed to spark empathy, creativity and a love for animals. Children six and under will find these fun… Learn More

Today, we’re celebrating a very special birthday – Maddie, the little dog who sparked a big revolution (her actual birthday is April 26). She was spunky, full of heart and the inspiration behind everything we do. When we were founded in 1994, it all started with Maddie – and a deep desire to share the… Learn More

Registration for the Foster 50 Challenge is now open and closes on April 30. Foster 50 was built on a simple belief: lasting impact happens when animal shelters, foster-based rescues, partners and pet parents work together. In its inaugural year, this national, coalition-led program proved what’s possible through community-powered action. Together, Foster 50 communities: Welcomed… Learn More

Join us for a dynamic look on April 29, 2026 for some of the winning strategies from the 2025 Foster 50 Challenge (registration for 2026 is now open!) Through a series of lightning-fast talks, you’ll learn how grant funding helped spark new ideas, expanded foster programs and created measurable change for communities and animals in… Learn More

This was originally published in Spring 2025.  The kittens are coming! And so is help. Back in March, Maddie’s Fund® hosted Camp Maddie: Kitten Edition, a half-day learning event with four of the premier experts in the field. Now, all four sessions and one question and answer session, is available on Maddie’s® University to peruse… Learn More

Have you ever wondered how your fellow animal well-being professionals manage their days and take care of themselves? In our new blog series, we’ll be chatting with a member of our field regularly about these topics and sharing it with you. Whether your role looks similar or completely different, we hope you discover something useful… Learn More

We know that short-term foster care can have immense benefits in helping lower stress levels in shelter dogs. Research shows that just a one or two night stay away from a shelter can drastically reduce dogs’ cortisol levels. And upon returning to the shelter, cortisol levels returned to baseline. Meaning the short-term foster sleepover essentially… Learn More

If you haven’t checked in on Maddie’s® Pet Forum lately, now’s the time! Whether it be exploring threads that discuss fundraising and resource drives or advice on getting started with grant writing, there’s something on just about every topic. In addition to connecting with peers, the Resource Library holds a collection of over 1,700 resources for… Learn More

Looking to implement a new program, learn more about a specific subject and create positive change for pets and people in your community? Be sure to save the date for Maddie’s Fund® Instructor-Led Courses! All courses are free, #ThanksToMaddie. We are excited to share that we have four brand new classes this term! We’re offering… Learn More