foster

GBHS FOSTER PROGRAM

Opening your heart and home to a pet in need is one of the most rewarding ways to make a difference. All you need is a small space and a lot of love—we supply everything else.

The GBHS Foster Parents provide short-term homes for kittens, puppies, dogs, and cats who need a little extra TLC before they can be adopted. Your spare bedroom or bathroom could be put to use giving puppies or kittens somewhere to grow for two to three weeks, or you could provide a dog undergoing heartworm treatment somewhere soft to lay down at night for just a few short months.

Animals that are fostered are more likely to be adopted quickly, which decreases the chance of them being returned. Fostering is a great way to volunteer from home, learn how to care for an animal before you commit to one, have a temporary pet if you are unable to commit to one long-term at the moment, and so much more!

Foster Parents are required to attend a brief orientation session and must have all other pets in their home up to date on shots and spayed or neutered prior to having a GBHS pet placed with them. For more information, please email Foster@gbhs.org.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE FAQ

What qualifications do I need in order to foster a pet?

You must be at least 19 years of age, and any pets you already have in your home should be spayed or neutered, and up to date on any yearly vaccines.

Do I need past experience to foster?

No.

What if I already have other pets in my home?

As long as your pets are up to date on their vaccines, and all the pets get along with each other, you are just fine as a foster home. Very few of our current foster homes have no pets already living there. You can always bring your pet to our facility for a meet & greet beforehand, and of course, we always recommend introducing new pets with caution until you know how everyone will react.

How long will I have my foster pet?

The average length of stay in a foster home is 2 to 3 weeks. Some pets may require as long as 2 months, but you will know in advance how much time a pet is expected to need.

What if I have a full time job?

Many of our foster parents do! Working outside the home does not prevent you from fostering. Each foster situation is unique, and you may choose which one fits your lifestyle.

What expenses am I responsible for?

None at all, apart from picking up and dropping off your foster pet at our facility. All supplies, including food and vet care, are provided by the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. Anything your pet might need to stay healthy and happy will be provided at no charge.

Will potential adopters come to my home?

No. Foster pets are returned to our facility for adoption once the foster period is over. If a potential adopter is interested in meeting your foster pet, the Foster Coordinator will reach out to you to schedule a time for the pet to brought to our Adoption Center for a meet and greet.

How much room inside my home do I need for the pet?

It depends on the type of pet. We have large breed dogs, small breed dogs, puppies, kittens, cats with a nursing litter…something for everyone! (All pets are expected to remain indoors at all times, except for adult dogs who may be leash-walked or let outside for brief potty breaks). The Foster Coordinator will advise you in advance what kind of space you should expect to provide.

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More questions? We would love to answer them for you! Please contact the Foster Coordinator at foster@gbhs.org for more information.