Are you thinking about fostering a shelter pet? First, a huge thank you—fosters are essential in helping shelters save more lives. Every pet that goes into a foster home opens up space for another animal and gives that pet a chance to experience life in a loving home. But what should you expect when you bring a shelter animal into your care? Here’s a guide to help you navigate your first-time fostering experience.
Expect It to Take Time
Each dog or cat will have different needs and personalities, but one thing you can count on is that fostering takes time. Many shelter animals have never been inside a home before. They might not know how to share space with other pets or understand where to sleep or what toys are theirs. It’s normal for them to feel a bit unsure at first. Give them the time they need to settle in, whether that means letting a cat have their own small room or giving a dog space to explore with supervision. Try not to overwhelm or inundate them with attention. You will be amazed at how quickly they may come to you on their terms.
Expect to Learn
The more you learn the better equipped you’ll be to enrich your foster pet. Atlanta Humane has tons of learning information, resources, and support, and of course, there’s YouTube, pet pages, and a wealth of information out there. Expect to ask questions and implement new strategies.
Expect Some Challenges
Fostering isn’t always smooth sailing. Be ready for a few bumps along the way, like a puppy crying at night or a cat hissing as they adjust. Potty accidents are common, even with pets who are usually well-trained. Stress and anxiety can cause behavioral hiccups, but with kindness and consistency, you can help your foster pet navigate these challenges.
Expect a Supportive Community
Here at Atlanta Humane, we have tons of support for our fosters from Facebook pages full of staff and volunteers to mentors to foster support professionals and veterinarians. We have supplies from pee pads to toys and treats to food, bedding, medication, and crates. You will not be alone on an island with your foster pet, you’ll have a big, loving community to get you started and throughout your experience. We even have foster sitters if you need some time away.
Expect Your Heart to be Full
When you see your foster take a nap in a comfy place or roll over for a tummy rub, your heart will grow. When you see the joy on their face when you get out their leash or their little mouse toy, your heart will fill.
Expect the Unexpected
Fostering can be unpredictable. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a foster situation might not work out. Maybe the pet doesn’t get along with your own animals, or they’re too scared to settle in. That’s okay—each foster experience is a learning opportunity, and there’s always another pet who might be a better fit.
Expect to Love It
When you open your home to a shelter animal, however long it is, you are opening up their possibilities of a happy life. The best is when you can bid them “happy life, little one” and know they’re on the way to their forever home. And then expect to shed just a tear or two.
If we have convinced you to get involved, visit our Foster page to learn more.
