Pet adoptions have certainly been on the rise during the pandemic, and that is awesome! But no matter how many pets get adopted, there will always be more that need homes. And there’s only so much room in pet shelters.
These amazing organizations depend greatly upon the kindness of pet foster parents. Not only does this help free up space for new admissions, but it helps provide certain pets with the right environment. Some animals don’t like being around lots of other animals while some shy sweeties may need to be socialized.
If you’re considering becoming a foster pet parent, here’s what you should know.
Every Pet is Different
You should go into fostering with both eyes open, fully understanding that every pet has a different story that can impact their behavior. They may immediately curl up in your lap and feel at ease or they may be terrified and want to hide out for a while. Let them do their thing and take their time getting acclimated.
Fostering Isn’t Expensive
In fact, it’s usually free! Organizations that facilitate fostering provide food and any necessary medications.
You May Need a Separate Space
Depending on the pet you foster, you may be advised to keep them in their own space temporarily or for the duration of their stay. So, it may be wise to prepare a space with some basic supplies. And it’s best to pick an uncarpeted space in case of accidents.
Find Out What’s Involved
Take your time to inform yourself on every step of the foster process and remember that each organization will function a little differently. Here are some key questions to ask if they aren’t addressed:
- Does the pet have any medical conditions? If so, are they contagious to other pets?
- Will you need to bring them back to the shelter or vet periodically?
- How long are you expected to foster?
- How does the pet interact with children and other pets?
- Do they have any behavioral issues you should know about?
- Does the pet have a history of abuse or neglect of any kind?
- Are they housetrained?
- What should you do if there’s a medical emergency?
- Will all supplies be provided? How do you obtain more supplies?
- If you have an issue or can no longer care for the pet, what should you do?
- Will you be expected to bring them to adoption events?
- What happens if you choose to adopt the pet?
It’s Hard to Say Goodbye
In fact, there’s a term for when people can’t say goodbye – “foster fail.” Yep, some people do fall in love with their fosters and decide to adopt them. And, of course, that’s OK! Just keep in mind that you can help even more animals if you continue to foster, which might be challenging if you add more permanent pets to your home.
Is Fostering Right for Your Whole Family?
The decision to foster a pet should be made by your whole family. Make sure that everyone is on board and that it’s the right thing for your pets as well. Some pets don’t interact well with newcomers. If that’s the case for you, fostering might not be right unless you have a comfortable, designated space for the foster.
And while fostering doesn’t have to be a ton of work, it is a commitment of your time and energy. Foster pets often need extra patience, love and attention. If you know you work or travel away from home often, fostering isn’t right for you. But if none of this has scared you off, then go forth and foster! And just think about all the pets you can help on the road to their forever homes.
