What does it mean to foster an animal?
Fostering an animal means temporarily caring for a pet in your home until they are adopted or ready for a permanent home. As a foster parent, you provide love, attention, and basic care for the pet, including feeding, grooming, and sometimes administering medication.
Fostering helps give the animal a safe, comfortable environment away from the stress of shelters, and it also opens up space for other animals in need.
Why should I consider fostering?
Fostering is a rewarding experience because it directly helps animals in need. Many pets end up in shelters because of abandonment or overcrowding, and fostering gives them a second chance to find a loving home. By fostering, you are providing a safe place for the animal to grow, heal, and learn social skills. It’s also a great option if you love animals but aren’t ready to make a long-term commitment to owning a pet.
What kind of animals can I foster?
At Lincoln Pet Volunteers, we have a variety of animals that may need fostering, including dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens. We sometimes also look for foster homes for small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs.
You can let us know your preferences, such as the type or size of the animal you feel comfortable fostering, and we will do our best to match you with a suitable pet.
How long do animals typically stay in foster care?
The length of time an animal stays in foster care can vary. Some pets may need just a couple of weeks until they are adopted, while others might need a few months, especially if they are recovering from an injury or need extra time to adjust to a home environment. We do our best to give you an estimated time frame based on the animal’s needs and your availability.
Do I need any special training or experience to foster an animal?
No special training is required to become a foster parent, but experience with animals is helpful.
Our team at Lincoln Pet Volunteers will provide you with guidance and support throughout the fostering process. We offer resources and training to help you feel confident in caring for your foster pet, especially if they have special needs or behavioral issues.
What supplies do I need to foster an animal?
Basic supplies like food, water bowls, a bed, toys, and litter (for cats) are essential. Lincoln Pet Volunteers can provide these supplies if needed, along with any specific items like crates, leashes, or medications. We make sure you have everything you need to give your foster pet a comfortable and loving environment.
Who covers the cost of veterinary care?
Lincoln Pet Volunteers covers the cost of all veterinary care for foster animals. If your foster pet needs to visit the vet, we will arrange the appointment and cover expenses like vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and any medical treatments.
You just need to focus on providing love and care for your foster pet.
Can I adopt the animal I’m fostering?
Absolutely!
If you fall in love with your foster pet and decide you want to make them a permanent part of your family, you can adopt them. Just let us know, and we will guide you through the adoption process. Many foster parents end up adopting their foster pets because they create a strong bond during their time together.
What if I have other pets at home? Can I still foster?
Yes, you can still foster if you have pets at home. We recommend a gradual introduction between your pets and the foster animal to ensure everyone feels comfortable. Our team can offer tips and support to help make the transition smooth.
In some cases, we may look for foster homes without other pets if the foster animal needs a quiet environment.
How do I become a foster volunteer with Lincoln Pet Volunteers?
Getting started is easy! Simply fill out our foster application form on our website, and a member of our team will reach out to you. We will discuss your preferences, answer any questions you may have, and match you with a suitable pet to foster.
After that, you’ll be ready to bring your foster pet home and start making a difference in their life.
Fostering is a vital part of our mission at Lincoln Pet Volunteers, and we’re always looking for compassionate individuals to join our team. If you have any more questions or are ready to start fostering, feel free to contact us. Together, we can give these animals the second chance they deserve.