Stay up to date with the latest Ruff Start happenings!
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
We are here to help you show your foster’s best characteristics! Whether it’s getting videos of their playful personality, pictures that show off their unique look, or reaching a broader audience to help find them their perfect match. Here are some frequently asked questions on how to best market your foster animal. Please reach out to communications@ruffstartrescue.org with any questions.
Photos
Do you have tips on getting good photos of my foster?
You bet! Below is a list of resources to help you get nice photos your foster pet.
What if I need help getting some photos?
Of course! You can request assistance from your Foster Manager. They will connect you with RSR’s Volunteer Photographers to find a date/time that works for you.
Videos
Do videos help my foster get noticed?
High quality videos of your foster animal playing, or interacting with you, your pets or family in a positive way can be a great way to showcase their adorable personality! You can send these videos to petprofile@ruffstartrescue.org to have it added to their website bio, and socialmedia@ruffstartrescue.org to have them featured on RSR’s social media accounts.
Bios
How do I write a good bio for my foster?
Getting Shelter Pets Noticed with Better Bios
Social Media
How can I get my foster pet featured on Ruff Start’s social media?
Ruff Start’s social media team would love to feature your foster animal! Please send new information, photos, and videos to socialmedia@ruffstartrescue.org.
I’ve created my own social media content. Will Ruff Start share it?
Yes! Ruff Start will share any content that is “on brand.” Please make sure your post is set to public and tag Ruff Start’s account. Please send TikTok videos via email if Ruff Start can reshare. We will remove your watermark and share it on our platforms.
How do I tag RSR on social media?
Ruff Start is on all major social media platforms. Please write the name of your foster animal in the post before tagging us.
How do I set my social media profile to public?
Facebook: Tap the top right of the post and select Edit Privacy. Select the new audience (public) from the options that appear.
Instagram: Only posts from public accounts can be viewed. If you have a private account, please tag us in Instagram stories for us to share. Share as “your story” and not “close friends.”
What does "on brand" mean for RSR?
Ruff Start’s social team separates marketing from adoption counseling, removing any “stop signs” that may deter an adopter from learning more about the animal. We will only post positive traits. You can learn more about our reasoning here.
How do I create a Facebook fundraiser for RSR?
How do I create an Instagram fundraiser for RSR?
What are some other ways to get extra exposure for my foster pet on social media?
Foster caregivers are welcome to go live on our Facebook page with the animal or do a takeover on our Instagram. (basic knowledge of the platform is essential) Please email socialmedia@ruffstartrescue.org if you’d like to try a live or takeover!
What is Ruff Start's social media agreement?
You can read Ruff Start’s social media agreement here.
Print Resources
Can I print something off to market my foster?
Yes! We have a Canva template that you can adjust to add your animal’s picture, name & details. You can then download and print off to hand out to the community to try to reach a larger audience. If you would like assistance creating the poster, please reach out to your Foster Manager.
Do you have something I can give to someone potentially interested in my foster?
Yes! We have Foster business cards available at the office. Please contact your Foster Manager if you would like to have them mailed to you.
Do you have general information print materials about RSR?
We have a public folder on Google Drive that has various posters, brochures, and information about our programs that we would love for you to share with friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, etc.! Our staff creates and updates the information in this folder and would love for you to help us share!
Additional Marketing Resources
Do you have other resources to help me learn more about marketing my foster?
You’re speaking our language! Check out the resources below for some useful tips & tricks.