If your foster animal is experiencing a medical emergency, please contact Life of Miracles immediately. For urgent care, we recommend heading to VCA West LA located at 1900 S. Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA. Timely intervention is critical in emergencies, and only a licensed veterinarian can offer the proper care and treatment.

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For animals that have been adopted, we encourage you to reach out to your established veterinarian for any medical needs. Please note, Life of Miracles is not responsible for medical bills, treatments, or consultations after adoption.

At Life of Miracles, the health and wellness of your foster pets are our top priority. Below are some frequently asked questions and common health concerns you might encounter with your foster animals.

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For any non-emergency health inquiries, feel free to reach out to your foster coordinator or adoption contact. For more serious or urgent concerns, we recommend consulting a licensed veterinarian who can assess the individual needs of your foster pet.

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Please note: The information provided here is general in nature and may not apply to your pet's specific health situation. We always encourage you to seek professional care if you're unsure.

The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only. Life of Miracles and its contributors are not liable for any actions taken based on this information. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the health advice shared here. Consult a veterinarian for any concerns about your pet's health.

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By using this page, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

1. Kennel Cough:
Kennel cough is common among rescued dogs, especially those from shelters. Symptoms can include a dry, raspy cough, sneezing, or watery discharge. If your foster dog shows any of these signs, please send a video to your foster coordinator for a vet appointment. Remember, kennel cough is contagious, so take care to isolate the sick pet from other animals until proper treatment is administered.

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2. Worms:
It's common for newly fostered dogs to have worms, but they’re usually dewormed shortly after being rescued. You may notice worms in their stool or signs like bloating and diarrhea. This typically resolves within 3–5 days. Note: These worms are not contagious to humans but should be disposed of properly.

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3. Lethargy & Loss of Appetite:
When a dog first arrives in a foster home, it’s normal for them to feel stressed, leading to lethargy or a decrease in appetite. Give them time to adjust. If the issue persists for more than 24 hours, try feeding them boiled chicken and rice. For ongoing lethargy beyond 72 hours, contact your foster coordinator for further steps.

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4. Eye Discharge:
Some discharge, especially in certain breeds, is normal, but yellow or green discharge, swelling, or difficulty opening the eyes is not. If you notice these symptoms, please contact your foster coordinator for a vet appointment.

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5. Dehydration:
Dehydration can result from diarrhea, vomiting, or lack of appetite. To check for dehydration, gently pinch the skin near the dog’s neck. If the skin doesn’t snap back quickly, the dog is likely dehydrated. Let your foster coordinator know right away so we can schedule an urgent vet visit.

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6. Vomiting:
Occasional vomiting, especially after eating too fast, is not alarming. However, if your foster dog vomits repeatedly in one day, inform your foster coordinator immediately to rule out any underlying health issues.

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7. Pain or Straining During Urination:
If your foster dog hasn’t urinated in over 24 hours or is straining, contact your foster coordinator immediately. This could signal a urinary tract infection or blockage that needs prompt medical attention.

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8. Diarrhea:
Soft stool can occur in the first few days after a dog is placed in a foster home due to stress or diet changes. Liquid stool or diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, so keep an eye on their condition. If diarrhea persists, or if you see blood or mucus, reach out to your foster coordinator for a vet appointment.

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9. Ear Scratching & Head Shaking:
Frequent ear scratching or head shaking can indicate an ear infection or mites. These conditions are treatable by a veterinarian, so don’t hesitate to schedule a vet appointment if you notice these symptoms.

Some foster animals may arrive with existing health concerns, and we are committed to supporting you through any medical issues that arise. If you notice any concerning symptoms, please reach out to your foster coordinator immediately.

We strongly recommend obtaining pet insurance as soon as possible. Pet insurance helps cover veterinary costs, which can be a financial burden for many pet owners. This coverage is crucial, especially in case of unexpected medical emergencies. We are happy to offer guidance on selecting pet insurance or share recommendations based on our experiences.

For more detailed information about pet health, your best resource is your primary veterinarian. Additionally, you can visit the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) website at https://www.avma.org for helpful resources.

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We also ask that you maintain open communication with your foster coordinator, especially if your foster dog’s health or behavior changes. Early intervention is key to ensuring your pet gets the right care at the right time. If your foster needs in-person veterinary care, please reach out to your foster coordinator to schedule an appointment within our approved veterinary network.

Monitoring your foster dog’s daily activities, appetite, and behavior is crucial. If you notice anything unusual, take detailed notes or videos, as this can help the veterinarian assess the situation. Photos, videos, and clear descriptions will ensure your pet gets the right care as quickly as possible.