Foster An Animal
Help save a life.
Become a Foster Hero
Are you ready to make a difference in the life of an animal in need? By becoming a foster parent, you can provide a temporary loving home for a dog or cat while they await their forever family.
Why Foster?
- Save Lives: Your fostering efforts directly contribute to reducing pet overpopulation.
- Rewarding Experience: Witness firsthand the transformation of a rescued animal.
- Community Impact: Help us create a more compassionate community for animals.
- Support from MARC: We provide all necessary veterinary care and supplies.
How to Become a Foster Parent:
- Complete the Foster Application (Electronically is preferred)
- Watch a Foster Orientation Video: Learn about the fostering process and our expectations.
- Open Your Heart and Home: Welcome a furry friend into your life, even if it’s just for a short time.
Together, we can create a brighter future for animals in need.
Frequently Asked
What makes a good foster?
If you can provide love, exercise, meals, and a safe place for a dog or cat in need, then you’re a good foster candidate!
How do I become a foster home?
The first step is to fill out the foster application. You can fill it out electronically or print it and mail or email it back to us. We will do a vet reference check to make sure that any current pets you have are spayed/neutered, up to date on their shots, and on heartworm prevention treatment. We will then contact you to set up a home visit during which we will give you an overview of the rescue organization, and your responsibilities, and we will answer any questions you may have. You will likely receive your first foster dog soon after the home visit!
What are my responsiblities?
We ask that you provide food, shelter, basic training, and lots of love to your foster. MARC will do its best to provide you with the necessary items (e.g., leashes, crates, beds, etc.) for your dog. MARC will cover all medical costs with an approved veterinarian, while the foster is in your care. You are also asked to attend adoption events or talk with potential adopters to facilitate permanent placement of your dog or cat.
Is it hard to see fosters leave?
Yes, it can be sad to see a foster go to her or his permanent home. However, we have a thorough adoption process that is designed to ensure that our foster dogs and cats go to safe and loving permanent homes. Knowing that you were an integral part of an animal’s life, in providing love when no one else would, in giving care when they needed it the most, and in opening your heart and home when others turned away is one of the most rewarding experiences. And the unconditional love you get in return is also an amazing thing! If you do find that a your dog or cat has attached too strongly to your heart, we do allow foster homes to adopt their fosters following the same adoption process as for all adoptions.
What if I have other pets?
As long as your family pets are well-balanced and get along with other dogs or cats, they may enjoy the company. Foster siblings may even help a foster dog or cat build their confidence. All current pets must be spayed or neutered.
How long will I have my foster?
This depends on the dog or cat and the situation. It may only be a couple of weeks, or it could be a few months, or even longer in some cases. The more you work with your foster, the faster they will find their forever homes!
What if my foster is not fitting in?
If there is a problem with your placement, we will move the animal to a new foster home as soon as possible. It is in everyone’s best interest to place foster animals in appropriate home situations and we work hard to make sure that happens.
