Fostering - A great way to help out!

Every week, hundreds of animals in Solano County are euthanized because there aren't enough homes for them. Many of these homeless pets would have had a chance to find a new home if more foster homes were available.

Fostering cats and dogs is a wonderful way to help make sure that these homeless pets find permanent, loving homes. All of our animals are fostered in homes. They are not placed in kennel facilities. This helps ensure that we know about their personalities. It also means they are used to being around people which helps maintain their temperament. In order to do this we need foster families.

Sounds good? Read some of our frequently asked questions below to see if this rewarding experience may be for you!

What do I have to do?
The animal stays at your home during the week and is cared for by you. All we ask is that you bring them down to our adoptions at Pet Food Express in Benicia on the weekends. If the animal is not adopted, we ask that you pick them up and take them home again. You can be part of the adoption process (talk to the potential adopters) or simply provide us written information about the animal's behavior that we can share with potential adopters. We may also ask that you take the animal to veterinary appointments (paid for by Friends of Animals).

What about food and supplies?
We receive many donations of food and other supplies that we can provide to you to help defer the cost of fostering.

What if the animal gets sick?
You will be provided with information on who to contact in case of an emergency. Friends of Animals has arrangements with many local vets and we will tell you where to take the animal for care. Friends of Animals will pay for Vet visits.

How long will I keep the animal?
It depends on the animal. Puppies and kittens tend to get adopted faster than older animals. It just takes the right person for the right animal. That's why it is important for us to know about an animal's particular traits.

What if I can't part with them after they come to live with me?
You are always welcome to adopt any animal you foster. However, as you foster more animals you learn to love them for their unique personalities and find great joy in seeing them find a perfect owner.

If you are interested in helping save lives, please complete this contact form or come and visit us at Pet Food Express in Benicia on Saturday's from 11-4 and talk to our volunteers. After filling out an application and a brief interview, you may be on your way to the very rewarding experience fostering homeless animals.