Fostering a Pet
June is Foster a Pet Month, the perfect time to celebrate those incredible people who open their hearts and homes to pets in need. Fostering is a vital part of animal rescue, making a real difference in the lives of countless pets. A lot of our amazing clients foster pets, as do we in our own home! We have had many foster kittens throughout the years, and even a foster fail, our very own Josie. That's why we wholeheartedly support fostering!
If you are thinking about fostering or want to learn more, here are our top three reasons to foster a pet from your local animal shelter or rescue:
1) Give a shelter animal a second chance
Shelters are high-stress environments for most pets that find themselves in one. Fostering pets can provide them with a loving home environment, helping them blossom and become more adoptable, giving them a second chance at life.
2) Free up space for more animals to be saved
By fostering, you create space at the shelter for other animals in need, allowing them to be rescued too.
3) Help socialize and train pets
Many shelter animals, especially the younger ones, haven't had much experience with home life. Fostering helps socialize them to sights, sounds, and routines, preparing them for their forever homes.
Are you ready to start fostering? Here is a quick guide on how to get started:
Research your local shelters and rescue organizations: Many organizations have dedicated fostering programs. Visit their websites or contact them to learn about their specific needs and application process. Here is a small list of local rescues in our area, Genesee County, who have a foster program:
Be honest about your lifestyle: Consider your living situation, schedule, and experience with pets. Shelters will match you with a pet that fits your needs and abilities!
Prepare your home: Make sure your home is safe and pet-proofed. Stock up on essentials like food, bedding, toys, and leashes (if fostering a dog).
Open your heart: Fostering can be an emotional rollercoaster. Be prepared to love the animal but understand the goal is to find them a forever home.
Remember, fostering doesn't have to be a long-term commitment. Many shelters often need short-term fosters for animals recovering from surgery, pregnant mothers, or those needing socialization before adoption events. Every bit helps!
We encourage you to contact a local shelter or rescue organization. They'll be happy to answer your questions and guide you through the process. Thank you for opening your heart and home to these deserving animals.
Together, let's make a difference in the lives of animals in need!
(All animals pictured in this blog were foster pets before they found their forever homes)