Animals in Need of Fostering
- Underage kittens and puppies
- Cats and dogs recovering from illnesses or injuries
- Displaced pets needing special temporary home
Length of Foster Period
The average time in foster care is 2-4 weeks. If the animal becomes ill, it may be longer. Newborn kittens and puppies will need at least eight weeks. Animal Services will handle all medical needs of the foster pet at no expense to the foster home.
Potential Risks of Fostering Animals
- Catching a disease from a foster animal
- Owned pets catching a disease from a foster animal
- A sick animal could expire in foster care or have to come to the shelter for humane euthanasia
Foster Providers Need
- Regular internet access
- Frequent visits to the shelter
- Up-to-date rabies vaccinations for all animals in the home
- Secure permission from the landlord if renting
- Enough room in the foster home to separate shelter pets from owned pets
Discuss fostering with a veterinarian, as they may suggest additional vaccinations to protect current animals.
Apply to Become a Foster Care Provider
Complete a Foster Care Provider Application. Once the application is approved, fosters are invited to join a Yahoo group called "Project Starfish," which is how the Animal Center communicates with foster homes when there are pets in need. Read the Foster Care Manual for additional info.
Foster Care FAQ
Foster Care Manual
