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• What does a foster parent do?

Foster parenting is a wonderful way to enjoy the love and attention of an animal without making a permanent commitment. Because we have limited space at the adoption center, volunteer foster parents make the difference between life and death to these animals and is a way to give animals in crucial need of placement a second chance at life. By taking an animal into your home, you are allowing it to become accustomed to a safe and loving home life. There is no guarantee how long it will take to find the animal a home; it could be as little as a few days or as much as a few months and some have even been several years. If at any time you would like to discontinue fostering, you are always given the option to stop once any animals in your care can be accommodated elsewhere.

 

• Do I get to choose which animal I want to foster?

Usually, as soon as someone is available to foster there is an animal in need ready to be placed in foster care. Sometimes there are several that may need fostering and you could decide. However, you always have the right to decline a foster opportunity.

 

• I don't think I could be a foster parent, I'd become too attached.

This is one of the most common phrases we hear and we share the sentiment whole-heartedly. But we also look at it from the perspective of the animal; without you to foster the animal it may well continue to suffer or die. We also know how rewarding it can be when watching a new owner shower an animal with kisses and love, and know that you had a hand in saving a life and creating a new family unit. Foster parenting can be one of the most rewarding events in your experience, and one of the reasons we work tirelessly to make it happen.

 

• What if the animal I am fostering doesn't work out for me?

Just like humans, animals all have different personalities, and our goal is to help find the best match for both you and the animal. If for some reason the animal you are fostering is not working, we will try to find another foster home as soon as possible. The animal will be moved / switched with another foster home when possible, but there is not always a quick place available.

 

• Do I have to pay for food for animals in my care?

If you are able to supply food on your own, your generosity is welcome. If not, PCHS can usually provide food.

 

• What about veterinary fees or emergency care?

All veterinary care must be coordinated through a designated PCHS representative. PCHS is responsible for all routine veterinary care of the animal while being fostered.

 

• If I have other animals in my home, can I still be a 'foster parent'?

Absolutely, with proper introduction, as long as your pets are comfortable with their new short term visitors.

If I have children, does that rule us out as a foster family?

Absolutely not; families with children can make excellent foster situations as long as the children are trained on how to properly treat an animal and supervised when with the foster animal. However if you have toddlers in your family, we will take extra care in the choice of animal.

 

• But how will the animal find a permanent home if it is living with me?

PCHS will be actively involved in trying to find a permanent loving home for the animal. As a foster parent, you will be given the means available to advertise the need for the pet to be adopted and how important it is that it be a permanent adoption so as not to put the animal into another stressful situation.

 

• How long will I be required to foster?

Because the animal’s history most likely has been one of instability and distress, foster parents must give the animal adequate time to adapt to their new situation. Some animals take longer than others based on their history and your home situation. There is no guarantee on how long it will take to find a home.

 

• Is there a limit to the number of animals I can foster?

Our priority is that the animals receive the best care possible and are introduced to a loving environment where they can grow and become accustomed to new situations. Each situation is evaluated and we determine how many animals it is practical to have in your care. We don't want to overburden our foster families and also want to be sure all animals are receiving the care and love they deserve. It also depends on any restrictions where you live.

 

• Why do you do home checks?

Home checks are essential to determine the animal will be living in a safe environment and we try if time allows. For example, if the dog you are looking to foster is an escape artist, we want to ensure your yard has tall fences, gates are locked, and there is no way to dig out. Another example is if you are fostering a cat, we check to see all windows have secure screens so there is no fear of kitty getting away out into the world where its chances of survival are significantly reduced. Visits to potential foster homes would be made by appointment.

 

• Can a foster parent adopt the animal he or she is fostering?

If during the course of your fostering all has gone well, of course! It is fact that foster parents fall in love with animals while fostering and many create a permanent bond.