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Foster FAQ

We know new foster families often have a lot of questions about becoming a foster parent, so we thought we’d share our Q&A with a pro; see what Theresa has to say about being a SAHS foster parent!
Foster Feature Q&A with Theresa O’Donnel

Videos:
Newborn puppies – how to take care of them

{slider Is it difficult to say goodbye?|closed}

Foster puppyFostering is a rewarding experience and naturally you will find yourself becoming attached. Be prepared to possibly shed some tears when it’s time to say goodbye. You will find comfort in knowing that you helped make a difference in their lives by helping them grow, heal, and have prepared them for their newest exciting journey of finding their forever home.

{slider Can I adopt my foster animal?}

Once your foster time is over and you’ve decided instead of saying goodbye, you’d like to adopt and make them part of your family, you can! All adopters must go through an adoption process. The process includes filling out an adoption application and completing an interview with an adoption counselor. Adoption fees vary on each animal.

{slider Do I have to pay for any items needed for the animal that I foster?}

No you do not! What’s wonderful about our foster program is that we provide you with EVERYTHING you need for your foster such as food, bedding, kennel, toys, medications (if needed), etc. As a foster parent, we do not want you to incur any costs. We provide you with all that you and your foster need.

{slider I have pets, can I still foster?}

You can foster if you have other animals. When fostering, we do require a quarantine (separation) period of two weeks from your pets and the foster. A majority of animals brought into our shelter are brought in as strays and although we send them out healthy, we can’t guarantee that the foster will or will not develop an illness along the way. This is why it’s crucial that you do the quarantine and have your pets up to date on vaccines for their protection.

{slider What happens if my foster animal becomes ill or I encounter an emergency with my foster?}

Foster kittyIf you have any concerns on an animal you are fostering, you are to contact the Foster Care Coordinator immediately by phone or e-mail. If an emergency arises with your foster, you will have a direct number you can call the Foster Care Coordinator at if it’s after hours.

{slider What if I am going out of town while I am fostering?}

If you have plans to go out of town, you are to contact the Foster Care Coordinator in advance to notify her of your departure. She will set up an appointment time for you to bring the foster animal in and will make plans to find another foster while you are away.

{slider Do I get to choose what types of animals I want to foster?}

Foster bathYou do get to choose what types of animals you’d be willing to foster. The foster application has categories listed of the different types of animals & cases that come in for foster. You have the opportunity to select what you want to foster and what you do not want to foster.

{slider Can I foster if I rent?}

If you rent, you can still foster. The Foster Care Coordinator requires that you consult with your landlord prior to you fostering to affirm that the animals are allowed in your household.

{slider I work full time, am gone for several hours, can I still foster?}

We have several different reasons as to why an animal goes into foster care. Depending on the animal and the reason the animal needs foster will determine if you can foster. Having a full time job certainly does not hinder you from fostering. The foster care coordinator will surely find someone that is a good match for you & your schedule.

{slider What if I take my foster home and discover I don’t have the time I thought to care for the animal?}

At any point, if you find you cannot care for the foster animal, contact the Foster Care Coordinator as soon as possible. We accept all of our foster animals back, but require that you schedule an appointment prior to bringing them in.

{slider Are the foster animals vaccinated?}

All animals are vaccinated upon intake, dewormed, and are given heartworm & flea prevention. This will vary on age. If you are fostering neonates (newborns) they cannot receive vaccines till they reach 6 weeks of age. The Foster Care Coordinator will contact you when it is time for them to come in for vaccines.

{slider How do I return my foster animal? Will I know when he/she needs to come back in?}

The foster parent will be given a date for the return of the animals. They must call the foster care coordinator to schedule an appointment prior to returning the animals. When the foster parent calls the foster coordinator space availability will be evaluated and an appointment will be made. Keep in mind a foster may be asked to keep the animal longer if there is no space for the animal or if the animal is not ready to be returned.

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Interested in making a huge difference & helping to save an animal’s life? Foster! If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact our Foster Team at 210-226-7461 ext.120 or e-mail foster@SAhumane.org

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About SAHS

The San Antonio Humane Society (SAHS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, no-kill organization that has served Bexar County and its surrounding areas since 1952. The SAHS shelters, medically treats, and rehabilitates thousands of dogs and cats every year.

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