What is fostering?

Fostering is a temporary arrangement where individuals or families take care of rescue animals in their homes.  The goal is to provide the animal with a safe, loving environment until it can be adopted into a permanent home.  Fostering helps relieve overcrowding in shelters and gives animals a better chance to adjust and thrive before finding their forever family.

Who can be a foster?

Almost anyone can be a foster as long as they meet certain basic requirements.

1. Be at least 18 years old.

2. Have a stable living situation where pets are allowed.

3. Have the time to care for the animal, including feeding, exercise, and enrichment.

4. Be able to provide a safe and loving environment for the foster animal.

5. Have the patience and commitment to care for the animal until it is adopted.

6. Follow the guidelines and requirements of P.A.W.S.

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No specific experience is necessary, but a love for animals and a willingness to learn are important.

What does it cost to be a foster parent?

Your time and your love!  That's it!  P.A.W.S. provides any necessary veterinary care and medications, crates or cages, food, and any other supplies required by the animal(s)! Our food pantry is open to our volunteers at any time.  

What kind(s) of animals would I foster?

P.A.W.S. takes in dogs, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs.  However, as a foster, you get to decide what type(s) of animal(s) you would be willing to take into your home.

What space do I need for the foster animals?

Have a separate, secure space in the home with a door that can be closed.  A spare bathroom, bedroom, finished basement area, or other quiet space will work great.  Younger animals may need a smaller enclosure inside of this space, such as a playpen.

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You will then need to "proof" the area. Remove any smaller items that can be ingested, such as cords and strongs.  You should also block off any under areas, such as under the bed or furniture to encourage your animal to hide in the areas you provide.  Remove any valuable or sentimental items that you don't want damaged. Scratching and/or chewing are necessary behaviors to an animal's development, but they don't always know what has been pre-approved by you!  P.A.W.S. encourages fosters to provide scratching posts or cardboard scratchers for cats or chew toys for dogs or bunnies.  If these items are donated to P.A.W.S. we are more than happy to share them with you.

How long will the animal(s) be in my home?

It depends on the situation.  The average stay in a foster home can range from a few weeks to a few months.  An animal will be considered adoptable once they are spay/neutered, up-to-date with age-appropriate vaccinations, and have a clean bill of health.

Can I name my foster animal?

Our foster animals already have names, and we ask that you do not change the name we have given them as their name corresponds with medical and other important records.

How much time does fostering take on a daily basis?

Time commitment can range from an hour or two each day to as much as eight hours a day if you are bottle-feeding infants.

What if I become attached to the animal?

Foster parents often form bonds and become emotionally involved with the animal(s) they are caring for.  It is wonderful when this happens but does not obligate you to adopt the animal.  Remember, the more room you have in your home for fosters means more animals that can be saved!  However, if you do choose to adopt, the same considerations for any person adopting a pet should be maintained for the foster parent.  The volunteer must determine if adopting the foster would be a good fit in their household.  Fosters interested in adopting an animal will follow the same procedures and will be charged the same fees as any potential adopter.

I have my own animals, can I foster?

Yes, but all resident pets need to be current on their vaccinations and should be kept separate from the foster animals until the foster family determines it is safe for them to interact.  However, keep in mind there is always a risk whenever new pets are introduced.  When in doubt, it's best to keep them separate. 

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Keep in mind that it's always a health risk to expose your animal to other animals even if those animals are healthy.  However, the health risk is minimal if your animals are up-to-date on their shots.

What if I have children?

Fostering is a wonderful family experience and can build a foundation of philanthropy in your children.  It's important to select an animal that is age-appropriate with your children.  You must also be diligent about providing guidance, instructions, and rules for your children with regards to caring for your foster animal.

What if I go on vacation or have a business trip?

If given enough notice, we can usually find volunteers that can foster sit for short durations.  We ask that foster parents always keep the Foster Program Coordinator aware of any temporary foster sitting situations.

How do I become a foster?

Fill out a foster application by clicking the button below.  Once we've received your application, we will contact you to set up a time for orientation.