Fostering
Fostering is not only a great way to help save a dogs life, it's also a good way to test yourself and your family to see if you are ready for a new member.
Generally there are Shelter Fosters & Rescue Fosters.
Fostering from a shelter is a wonderful (short-term) fix to helping the dog in need. However your usually on your own as far as providing food, medical etc.
Fostering from a rescue can be short-term or long-term and 90% of the time food, crate, medical etc. are taken care of by the rescue and/or it's volunteers. Also by fostering from a rescue, you are freeing up a spot for a shelter dog that may be in need of the rescues special attention.