Since starting our foster program, Fast Tracks Canine Activity Center has watched 17 dogs find homes where they are truly loved. But fostering with us isn’t just about giving a dog a place to stay — it’s about helping them heal, learn, and rediscover joy before they head off to their forever families.
Our partnership with Hero’s Haven has brought us dogs from all over the country, each one with their own story. Some arrive scared and shut down, others brimming with energy but needing guidance. What began as a small effort to help a few dogs has grown into one of the most rewarding parts of our work, touching not only the lives of the dogs but also our staff, clients, and the Cedar Falls community.
More Than Just a Safe Haven
At Fast Tracks, our daycare program is the heart of what we do — and it’s also what makes our foster program so successful. We’ve built our reputation by focusing on each dog’s unique personality instead of treating them like just another number on the list.
That same care extends to our foster dogs. Before joining daycare, every foster is thoughtfully evaluated so we can match them with the right playgroup. This helps them learn how to interact safely and confidently with other dogs while building trust in people again.
What makes the foster dogs’ experience a little different is the extra one-on-one time they get with our staff. If a dog struggles with jumping, nervousness, or other behaviors, we work patiently with them so they’re better prepared for home life. Their kennels are cozy, filled with soft beds, blankets, and toys — a safe space where they can finally relax. For some, it may be the first time they’ve felt secure. Watching them blossom is an honor we don’t take lightly.
The Power of Community
One of the most inspiring parts of our foster program is the way our clients have rallied behind it. When we post about a dog looking for a forever home, our daycare families share those stories far and wide. At client parties, it’s not unusual to see families spending extra time loving on the fosters, making them feel like part of the pack.
We’ve even had daycare clients fall in love and adopt foster dogs they met here. A few of our own staff members have, too! These moments remind us that this isn’t just about dogs — it’s about community, compassion, and connection.
Structured Care, Real Results
Our daycare standards keep every dog — foster or client — safe and thriving. That means up-to-date vaccines, spay/neuter requirements, and scheduled appointments instead of unpredictable drop-ins. This calm, structured routine is especially valuable for fosters, who are learning what it means to trust and settle into daily life.
Through our partnership with Hero’s Haven, we handle the daily care and training while they cover essentials like vaccines, food, and vet visits. Together, we make sure every foster gets what they need until the right family comes along.
When someone is interested in adopting, Hero’s Haven handles the approval, and then our General Manager steps in to coordinate a meet-and-greet. We don’t rush the process — we want to make sure it’s the perfect match.
Making a Real Impact
Being part of the rescue process has opened our eyes to just how many dogs are still waiting for homes. That’s what fuels us — knowing that every foster who leaves here adopted means one less dog in limbo.
The most rewarding part? Seeing the transformation. The shy dog who wouldn’t make eye contact is now curled up on the couch in a photo from their new family. The rowdy pup who needed structure is now walking calmly beside their new best friend. Every adoption reminds us why this work matters.
What We Want Adopters to Know
When you adopt a foster from Fast Tracks, you’re not just bringing home a dog — you’re gaining a family member who’s been loved, trained, and cared for like one of our own. We’ll always be here to support you, whether that means answering questions, celebrating milestones, or helping if things don’t work out the first time.
Because for us, it’s not about getting dogs “out the door.” It’s about building lasting matches and making sure both the dog and the family feel supported every step of the way.
Building on Success
So far, 17 dogs have found their forever families through our program, and each one has left pawprints on our hearts. They arrive needing patience, care, and time — and they leave ready to love.
One of our favorite parts of this work is seeing those updates from new families: photos of a once-nervous dog sprawled across a bed, or a playful pup grinning from ear-to-ear on a hike. Those moments remind us that every ounce of effort is worth it.
And we’re not stopping here. Every dog deserves a chance, and we’re committed to helping as many as we can.
If you’d like to meet one of our foster dogs or learn more about how you can help, stop by and see us. You might just meet your next best friend.
