Why Foster?
Every foster home opens shelter space for another animal in need.
Save Lives
Food, medical care, medications, crates and support.
We Provide Supplies
Some fosters help for a weekend. Others help for weeks.
Flexible Commitment
You become part of an animal’s journey to a forever home.
Make a Difference
What Kind of Foster Is Right For You?
Need bottle feeding, growing, and socialization.
Commitment:
2-8 weeks
Puppies & Kittens
Animals recovering from surgery, illness, or injury.
Commitment:
Varies
Medical Recovery
Take a dog or cat home for a weekend, a holiday, or a few days.
Great for first time fosters!
Shelter Break
Adoption Ambassador
Help an adoptable animal get seen by taking them home and sharing photos and updates.
Provide a quiet, safe place for mom and babies to thrive.
Commitment:
2-6+ weeks
Nursing Moms
We Provide
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Routine veterinary care
Vaccinations and boosters
Preventative medications as appropriate
Treatment plans for approved medical conditions
Access to our medical team for questions and support
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Food (when available and requested)
Crates and carriers
Litter and litter boxes for cats
Basic enrichment items
Feeding and care instructions
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Prescribed medications
Administration instructions
Ongoing support and monitoring
Refill coordination when needed
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Foster handouts and resources
Guidance from staff
Behavioral support when available
Access to our foster team throughout placement
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Marketing through DCHS channels
Adoption application processing
Meet-and-greet coordination
Final adoption paperwork and counseling
You Provide
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Secure indoor housing
Separation from resident pets when required
Appropriate supervision
Compliance with foster program guidelines
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Feeding and fresh water
Cleaning and sanitation
Exercise and enrichment
Monitoring overall health and behavior
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Bringing animals to scheduled veterinary appointments
Attending adoption events when requested
Coordinating pick-up and return appointments
Communicating transportation needs in advance
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Regular updates on progress
Photos and videos for adoption marketing
Reporting medical or behavioral concerns promptly
Communication regarding availability and needs
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Helping animals decompress and adjust
Positive socialization and handling
Patience with shy, fearful, or recovering animals
Providing a temporary home while they wait for adoption
Foster FAQs
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No. Many fosters are first-time fosters.
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It depends on the animal's needs.
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Often yes. We will help determine the best match.
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Contact the foster team and we'll work with you.
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DCHS provides approved medical care, supplies, and support.
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Sometimes. Foster animals are available through the normal adoption process and foster families may be considered as adopters.
From Fragile to Forever
Lucky came to DCHS sick, needing a lot of help with his skin, and someone to be patient with him while he healed. Thanks to a foster family, he healed, grew stronger, and found his forever home.
You can be the reason their story has a happy ending.
What Foster Homes Make Possible
Last year DCHS cared for more than 2,200 animals. Foster families played a critical role in helping vulnerable animals receive care outside the shelter while creating space for others in need.