Before You Foster

Ask yourself these questions!

Are you able to separate the foster animals from your own pets?
Foster animals should be isolated from your own companion animals. A bathroom or small separate room with NO carpet will work best.

Are you aware that there is a great deal of clean-up and even possible damage to your home when you take a foster animal(s) home?
Preparing your home and the area the animals will stay in is the best way to prevent and contain most accidents.

Are you able to monitor the health of the foster animals?
Our Foster Coordinator is on call to answer any questions or concerns you may have about your pet’s health, and we have our own veterinarian available to intervene when needed. We ask our fosters to please pay attention to signs of illness or worsening of symptoms. Foster home training will cover what to look for and the Foster Coordinator will help you decide if you should bring the animal in for treatment.

Can you get the animal to us quickly in case of an emergency?
If the animal(s) you are fostering needs medical attention, we ask that you please contact our Foster Coordinator to determine how to proceed in each situation.

Are you emotionally prepared to return the animal to HHS after the foster period is up?
This is one of the many things that makes foster families so special. It can be difficult to let go once you have become emotionally attached to your foster babies. But preparing them for a beautiful life ahead is such a selfless and rewarding act, it will be worth it when you see them get adopted into their forever homes, and know that you played such an important role in that animal’s life.

Did you know fosters are commonly adopters and/or help bring adopters to us?
When a foster decides to adopt their foster pet, it is NOT considered a “foster failure” as people sometimes say. And if a family member or friend falls in love with your foster(s), we can assist in facilitating an adoption for them if it is the right fit.