What is a foster home?
A foster home is a temporary living situation for pets in our program while they are awaiting placement in a permanent home or can be housed at our adoption building. Foster families provide shelter, food, care and love. The number of animals we can save depends entirely on the number of people who open their homes and hearts to foster them.
Why foster?
Because some of our dogs and cats do not handle the stress of being at the adoption building very well, the only way that we can save these animals is with the help of foster homes.
Our young kittens and puppies need to stay in foster until they are old enough to be spayed and neutered, at which time they are ready for adoption. Older pets who are ill or injured may need to stay in foster care until they are well enough for adoption.
In some cases, a foster home is needed to help an animal transition from the stress of having been abandoned. Some dogs and cats will need to stay in a foster home until they are adopted.
How long should I expect to foster?
It all depends on the specific animal(s), though you will be told upfront before you agree to foster the pet how long of a commitment we believe it will be.
Foster responsibilities
The foster home must:
♦ Provide a safe, clean, caring environment.
♦ Provide food, water, litter, toys/enrichment, and shelter.
♦ Provide exercise and socialization as appropriate.
♦ Monitor any medical and/or behavioral problems.
♦ Transport to/from any necessary medical appointments (generally at the shelter).
♦ Transport to/from any approved off-site adoption events.
Becoming a foster parent
To serve as a foster parent, you must:
♦ Be at least 18 years of age.
♦ Own your home or have landlord approval.
♦ Introduce the foster dog to your dog and/or children, if applicable.
♦ Complete a foster application and receive approval.