Foster Care FAQ

If you have a question that isn't answered, be sure to Contact Us.

How long am I expected to foster?

Length of stay varies by pet, depending on how socialized they may be, health status, behavior training and interest from potential adopters. We expect our foster homes to care for the pet until they are adopted. Arrangements can be made for planned vacations.



What do I have to pay for as a foster?

Nothing, unless you want to spoil them a little more! Paws for Life provides all medical care and pet supplies. Every dog foster care home will be provided with, as needed:

  • Dog food, treats and dishes
  • Crate and bed
  • Toys and enrichment
  • Collar, leash, ID tag and harness
  • Dog vehicle safety belt
  • Grooming tools
Every cat foster care home will be provided with, as needed:
  • Cat food, treats and dishes
  • Cat carrier and bed
  • Litter, litter box and scooper
  • Toys
  • Cat tower, scratching post and/or cubby
  • Grooming tools



What if my foster needs to go to the vet?

Our volunteer medical coordinators will schedule routine appointments for vaccines and spay/nueter surgery. They will coordinate with your schedule and choose the closest partnered veterinary practice to you, whenever possible. If it is an emergency. IMMEDIATELY transport your foster pet to the nearest emergency vet clinic and call your foster care coordinator. If your foster pet is injured or ill (non-emergency), contact your foster care coordinator, explain the issues and request that a vet appointment be scheduled.



Can I adopt my foster pet?

YES! As a volunteer foster care parent, you have the first right to adopt. But you must make this decision before an application is approved for your foster pet. Contact your foster care coordinator as soon as you come to that decision.



What if my foster pet isn't working out?

Contact your foster care coordinator immediately to report any and all safety or health concerns regarding your foster pet. We will work with you to resolve the issues or move the pet to a different location as soon as possible.