Fostering: Be a Bridge to Forever
The Basics
If you're not ready to commit to a full-time pet, if you're wanting to see if you can accommodate a full-time pet, or if you're simply wanting to help save lives, fostering might be right for you! The reasons folks get involved in fostering vary widely, but the impact is the same: life-saving, tail-wagging, purr-sounding, forever-home-finding joy.
Because we do not have a physical shelter building, our foster parents provide the housing, care, training, and support all of our animals need to survive and thrive. While some animals will require a long-term commitment, most animals are with us for 2-4 weeks while we get to know them and match them to the perfect forever family. Here at The Foster Farm, we provide all necessary supplies and medical care for your foster pet so that you can focus on the most important thing -- your foster!
Get Started
If you think you're ready to get started, go ahead and complete the foster application. This questionnaire is designed to help us match you to incoming animals in need of foster care once you've been approved to foster. Should you have further questions, don't hesitate to reach out to us via the Contact Us page!
FAQ
How do I apply to foster?
You can apply to foster here!
Can I foster for TFF if...
- I own my own pet(s)?
- Yes! All owned pets must be current on rabies and annual vaccines (DAPP for dogs, FVRCP for cats) and spayed/neutered unless otherwise specified due to age, health conditions, etc.
- I rent/live in an apartment?
- Yes, with landlord approval. Pet rents and extra security deposits may apply, so be sure to read your lease!
- I have children?
- Yes! We think it's so important to have kiddos safely involved in foster and rescue and we have dozens of families with kids of all ages who foster!
- I work outside the home?
- Yes! Crate training is vital to the safety and security of our foster pets, so we'll help you get set up for success.
- I foster for another rescue?
- Yes, but not while you have a foster pet belonging to another organization.
- I've never had pets?
- Yes! Fostering is a great way to find out if you are able to commit to a lifetime!
How long will I have a foster animal?
Typically, anywhere from 1-4 weeks. Some stays will be longer (especially with medical cases or litters of puppies or kittens), but if you can only commit to a weekend or a few weeks, we can still use your help!
Do I have to pay for anything?
Nope! Volunteers do often buy day-to-day supplies when they can, but all medical care is paid for by TFF and supplies can be provided for your foster's entire stay!
What if my foster pet isn't a good match for my home?
We are committed to the safety and comfort of all of the animals and people involved in foster care, including you and your pets. If an animal is not a good fit for your home, we move them as soon as we can.
Can I adopt my foster pet?
Yes! As long as it's a good fit for all involved, foster families are welcome to apply to adopt their foster animal, but fosters are encouraged to weigh the pros and cons of adding their first foster as a permanent member of the family. While we understand that foster families get attached to every foster animal, it does get easier to see each new pet leave with their perfect forever family!