Guardian Home/ Foster home program

Guardian home program FAQ

Guardian Home Program – FAQ

Marino’s Precious Cavaliers
Helping families raise and love top-quality Cavaliers—ethically and with heart.

 PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Q1: What is a Guardian Home Program?

A: It’s a partnership where a family provides a loving, full-time home for one of our breeding-quality dogs. You raise and care for the dog like your own. In return, we retain breeding rights during their active breeding years. Once retired, the dog is 100% yours.

 CONTRACT & COMMITMENT

Q2: Why is the contract so long and detailed?

A: This is a serious, mutually beneficial partnership—not just a pet adoption. The contract ensures clarity on health, breeding, and care responsibilities. It protects the dog, the guardian family, and the integrity of our program.

Q3: Why does the contract feel strict or legal in tone?

A: The formality reflects the value of the dog (often $6,000+) and the responsibility involved. It’s a clear roadmap to avoid misunderstandings, not a trap. We’re always happy to explain anything in plain language.

Q4: What if it all feels overwhelming or scary?

A: That’s understandable at first. But once you understand the purpose and process, most families find it empowering and rewarding. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

 OWNERSHIP & RESPONSIBILITIES

Q5: Is this a loan or do I actually own the dog?

A: During the breeding phase, it’s a gaudian home / foster dog . After the dog retires, full legal ownership transfers to you. Until then, breeding-related decisions are shared, but your day-to-day relationship with the dog is just like any loving pet owner.

Q6: What if I move or my life changes?

A: Life happens! If you move within 200 miles of Sandpoint, ID, that’s typically fine—just let us know. If you need to exit the program early, we’ll work with you on a fair solution with the dog’s well-being as the top priority.

Q7: Do I need prior experience with breeding or showing dogs?

A: No. That’s our job. You just provide a safe, loving home. We handle all aspects of breeding, and you’re never expected to manage it alone.

 BREEDING & HEALTH

Q8: When does breeding start and how often does it happen?

A: Females usually begin breeding around their 3rd heat or by age 2. If healthy, we breed them every cycle ,for up to four years, with breaks if needed.       

Q9: How long does the breeding career last?

A:

• Females: Usually retire at age 6 or after 4 years of active breeding.

• Males: Typically retire around age 6 or by mutual agreement.
  After retirement, the dog is spayed/neutered and fully yours.

Q10: What happens when the female goes into heat?

A: You notify us, and we arrange breeding. She returns to us about 10 days before her due date and stays 7–8 weeks. Then she comes back to you.

Q11: Can I visit her during whelping?

A: Due to health protocols, visits are limited—but we send updates, photos, and videos. She’s in loving hands the entire time.

Q12: What if she doesn’t pass her health  evaluations?

A: Not all dogs are bred. If she’s retired early, you’ll have the option to adopt her permanently for a reduced fee (usually $1,500).

 FINANCIALS & SUPPORT

Q13: Do I get paid or compensated?

A: Yes! We offer compensation for each litter (or stud service), plus:

• A top-quality Cavalier placed with you at no cost

• Ongoing support and training resources

• Full ownership after retirement

Q14: Do I have to pay for breeding-related expenses?

A: No. We cover all costs related to breeding, reproductive care, and veterinary evaluation. You’re only responsible for typical pet expenses (food, basic vet care, grooming, etc.).

 CARE & SAFETY

Q15: What happens if the dog gets sick or injured?

A:

• Breeding-related issues: We cover those.

• Everyday health issues: You cover these as the guardian.
  In an emergency, act in the dog’s best interest and contact us ASAP.

Q16: What if the dog is lost or seriously injured in my care?

A: Each case is reviewed individually. If the loss was due to negligence or violation of the contract, compensation may be required

 LIFESTYLE QUESTIONS

Q17: Do I get to name the dog?

A: Yes! You choose the call name. We assign an AKC name for records, but you decide what you call your dog day-to-day.

Q18: Can I take the dog on vacation?

A: Absolutely! Just keep us informed. If you’re traveling without the dog, we may offer approved sitters or boarding.

Q19: What if I fall in love with one of her puppies?

A: You can request to adopt one! It’s a separate process but we love keeping puppies in the extended family.

Q20: What if I can’t make a breeding appointment?

A: Just let us know. We can often adjust the timeline or arrange temporary care during that period.

 EXITING OR CHANGING THE PROGRAM

Q21: What if I want to stop participating but keep the dog?

A: We handle this case-by-case depending on how much of the contract is fulfilled the dog may be able to retire early to you. If not, the dog will need to be assigned to another guardian family that can fulfill the contract. 

Q22: What if I can’t continue for personal reasons?

A: We understand life changes. If needed, the dog can be returned to us. We’ll always prioritize her safety and well-being.

 COMMUNITY & SUPPORT

Q23: Is there a support system if I have questions?

A: 100%! We’re always just a call or text away.

 FINAL QUESTIONS

Q24: Why do you use guardian homes instead of keeping the dogs?

A: Because dogs deserve to live in homes—not kennels. This way, they get one-on-one love and attention while still contributing to the future of the breed.

Q25: Why not just sell the dogs?

A: We don’t sell our top breeding dogs because they’re selected to preserve the best genetics, temperament, and health. Guardian homes let them live a full family life while still contributing to responsible breeding.