FOSTER HOMES NEEDED FOR SEVERAL CATS NOW!!! We are currently in need of foster homes for some of our cats.  If you are able to help please fill out the on-line application.  If you can't foster, think about Sponsoring a Pet.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT FOSTERING A PET

Fostering is wonderful, and even though it's hard to let your foster dog go, it's so worth it to see a delighted family and a happy dog and know that you really helped an animal get a wonderful home.

• How long does the animal stay in foster care?
  Foster dogs and cats are typically in our program from 2 weeks to several months.  Most of them learn the foster home's routine within a couple of days, and settle in beautifully.

• What if I can't keep him any longer?
  While it is best for the dog or cat to stay in one home, we realize plans sometimes change unexpectedly.  Our Foster Care Coordinator will know what foster homes are available and which ones might be suitable.  If a dog or cat just isn't working out, just tell us and we can arrange to move the animal to another home.
  

   

• May I adopt my foster dog or cat?
  CAPS does not encourage or expect you to adopt your foster pet. We also recognize the realities of fostering, including the fact that foster families can fall in love with their foster animals. Therefore, foster homes always have first right of adoption if they do fall in love and can't let their animal go. 
  
  

• May I choose which dog or cat I foster?
  We will call you and discuss at length any potential dog or cat we're thinking of for you. You may certainly set limits on the kinds of animals you foster. If you are asked to foster a pet that doesn't seem right for you, you can decline. If any foster animal you've accepted proves too difficult to handle, s/he can be placed elsewhere.

   

• How much time does it take?
  From an hour a day to however much time you care to spend with the dog or cat.  Most are genuinely grateful with whatever time you have to give them.  Some animals may need to go to a vet appointment for a re-check, booster shots, etc.   We do have transport volunteers available if you are unable to get the animal to any necessary appointments.

   

• What do I have to do to get them ready for adoption??
  Mostly, they just need love and attention.  Many dogs or cats need to lose or gain weight, and we'll work with you on that.  Some will need help with housebreaking and crate training or litter box training.   If you want to start basic obedience training the dog, that would be great, but it's certainly not required.  Your current pets will help with training, too.  Believe it or not--dogs and cats learn a lot just by observing. 

   

• Will I become attached to the dog or cat?
  Yes, but when you know that the people who will provide a permanent loving home for the dog or cat you've helped rescue, you will feel immense satisfaction to see them move on to their new and better life.

   

• How much does it cost to foster a dog or cat?
  Lack of funds should not prevent you from fostering, we only ask you to provide good quality food (when there is not already a donation of food available) and lots of love.  You may have additional expenses for any toys you choose to provide and any damages the foster dog or cat may cause. CAPS provides the animals veterinary expenses and medications, including heartworm prevention, unless you want to donate these tax-deductible expenses to CAPS.  We'll send along any medications we already know the animal needs to be on, and simply ask that you call and let us know if there's a medical issue that needs to be checked.

• How do I get a foster dog or cat?
  All CAPS foster homes go through the adoption approval process.  We do this for 2 reasons, first the foster family will be familiar and comfortable with the adoption process and how families for their foster pets are screened.  The second reason is many foster families do eventually fall in love with one of their foster pets and adopt them.  If you'd like to experience the rewards of fostering these great and deserving dogs and/or cats, please go to our Foster Care Application and begin the process on line.