FOSTER A CHANGE
Fostering a dog is a meaningful way to help dogs in need while benefiting the foster family and the dog. Here are some key reasons to foster:
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Save Lives
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Fostering opens up space in shelters or rescues, allowing more dogs to be saved from overcrowded facilities or euthanasia.
Provide a Safe Haven
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Foster homes provide a loving and comfortable environment for dogs to heal, grow, and decompress from shelter stress, helping them become better candidates for adoption.
Emotional Rewards
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Fostering is deeply rewarding, as you play a pivotal role in giving a dog a second chance. The joy of seeing a dog transform and thrive in your care is unmatched.
Make a Difference
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By fostering, you contribute directly to the mission of animal rescue organizations and help promote awareness about responsible pet ownership and adoption.
Each foster dog has unique needs, and every fostering experience can be a bit different, but the positive impact on both the foster dog and the foster home is undeniable.
FAQ
Is there a set time commitment? The length of foster assignments varies based on the needs of the animal. You will receive an approximate assignment duration before you commit to an animal. Some of our youngest foster animals need around-the-clock care, including feedings every 2-3 hours, while other foster animals can be left at home for up to 10 hours at a time. We will match you with a foster assignment that works with your schedule, availability and interests.
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Is there a set time commitment?The length of foster assignments varies based on the needs of the animal. You will receive an approximate assignment duration before you commit to an animal. Some of our youngest foster animals need around-the-clock care, including feedings every 2-3 hours, while other foster animals can be left at home for up to 10 hours at a time. We will match you with a foster assignment that works with your schedule, availability and interests.
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Will I need to provide food or supplies?All essential supplies and medical care will be provided by ALMA Rescue. Specific supply needs will be discussed for each foster assignment.
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Can I foster just one kitten or puppy?To ensure healthy behavioral development of kittens and puppies under 8 weeks of age, we always try to send them to foster in pairs or litters. If we do have a singleton we strive to match them with an age-appropriate buddy while they develop. Please be prepared to take at least 2 kittens or puppies for the duration of your assignment.
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Can my foster animal meet my resident pets?ALMA Rescue recommends complete separation of foster animals and resident pets for the health and safety of all involved. If a foster volunteer chooses to allow their resident pets and foster animals to interact, this must be done in a safe and supervised way. Your resident pets should be up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations and never be left alone with a foster animal. Information and resources on safely introducing animals can be found here. Please note: ALMA Rescue is not liable for any illness or injury between foster and resident pets.
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What happens to my foster if I am going out of town?Your foster team will coordinate an alternative foster placement or schedule your animal to be housed in the shelter while you are out of town. We ask that you do not take them with you or use private pet-sitters, since these private parties have not gone through the ALMA foster trainings. We are here to support our fosters so you can enjoy your time away!
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Can I adopt my foster pup?Yes! We love when our foster families fall in love with their foster pet and choose to adopt! However, if your goal is ultimately to adopt, it is unnecessary to foster the animal first because we have an Adoption Guarantee! If you adopt and then need to return your adopted animal for any reason, you can do so by just giving us a call. So there’s no need to foster an animal as a "test run."