foster a pet

One of the most meaningful ways to volunteer is by opening your heart and home and becoming a foster parent. Without any shelter facility, there is no holding place to temporarily house animals in transition. Unless someone is willing to work with us to care for the foundling(s), at least on an interim basis, we are extremely limited in how we can help. By choosing to become a foster, you provide another chance for a homeless, abandoned or unwanted pet to find their forever home.

What is involved?

  • Mainly your time, love and a stable, comfortable environment

Do I need to have a special place for them?

  • A safe, confined area that the rescued pet can feel secure & unthreatened
  • This could be quiet room inside, a screen porch, a large crate, etc., somewhere they can call their own
  • A fenced, secured outside area may be necessary
  • Gradually acclimate the rescue to being in the whole house/family setting

Ode to My Foster Parent

There I sat, alone and afraid.

You got a call and came right to my aid.

You bundled me up with blankets and love.

And, when I needed it most, you gave me a hug.

I learned that the world was not all that scary and cold.

That sometimes there is someone to have and to hold.

You taught me what love is, you helped me to mend.

You loved me and healed me and became my first friend.

And just when I thought you'd done all you could do,

There came along not one new lesson, but two.

First you said, "Sweetheart, you're ready to go.

I've done all I can, and you've learned all I know."

Then you bundled me up with a blanket and kiss.

Along came a new family, they even have kids!

They took me to their home, forever to stay.

At first I thought you sent me away.

Then that second lesson became perfectly clear.

No matter how far, you will always be near.

And so, Foster Parent, you know I've moved on.

I have a new home, with toys and a lawn.

But I'll never forget what I learned that first day.

You never really give your fosters away.

You gave me these thoughts to remember you by.

We may never meet again, and now I know why.

You'll remember I lived with you for a time.

I may not be yours, but you'll always be mine.

- Author Unknown

If I already have pets, is that OK?

  • Most times
  • Gradually introduce the rescue & supervise interaction
  • Your pets must be current on vaccinations, flea/tick preventative, etc.

What care do I need to provide?

  • Fresh food, water & lots of TLC!

  • Administer basic meds, if needed

  • Quality play, exercise & socialization time
  • Consistent positive reinforcement!

Do I need to do any special training?

For Dogs:

  • Housetraining

  • Leash walking

  • Basic commands

  • Socializing with other dogs, people, kids & cats (if possible)

  • Develop trust & confidence

For Cats:

  • Litter box training (most know this instinctively!)

  • Socializing with other people, kids, dogs & cats (if possible)

  • Develop trust & confidence

How long will I have to keep a pet?

  • Time varies depending on their situation

  • Puppies & kittens generally can be adopted out by 10 -12 weeks old

  • Dogs & cats may take 2 – 3 months, or more to be adopted

What does DART provide?

  • Prior to adoption

    Spayed/neutered

    Current on vaccinations

  • Current on flea/tick preventative

  • Treated for any other medical condition

    Regular follow-up

  • Additional vetting if needed

  • Adoption promotion

  • Adoption screening (with your input)

Sambo AdoptedThis is something I’d like to do, how do I get started?

 

 

 

Thank you for your interest and compassion!

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