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The CAP Foster Program is a medical based program which places currently unadoptable or unhealthy pets into caring foster homes in order to rehabilitate and treat those issues. Once treated and healthy the pet can go up for adoption and find a forever home. There may be ups and downs during treatment, do not hesitate to ask for guidance and advice!

We are most in need of foster families who can take dogs over 40 lbs, cats with Upper Respiratory Infection, and underweight kittens.

How Can I Qualify to be a Foster Parent?

In order to become a CAP Foster, you must be 18 years or older, and you must complete a foster application. Once it is approved by our team, you will be invited to attend Foster Home Orientation and Medical Training here at the shelter. Fosters are required to complete orientation and everyone in the home from parents to pets must be up to date on their vaccinations. 

Apply today with our online foster application and get ready to join our wonderful foster program, if you have any questions please contact our foster coordinator. PLEASE REMEMBER: this is a MEDICAL BASED foster program that places currently unadoptable or unhealthy pets into caring foster homes. The majority of pets going into foster homes will require daily medications.

Fostering for CAP

  • CAP covers the majority of medical expenses (including xrays, some bloodwork, dental cleanings, routine care such as spay/neuter, vaccinations etc)  and at times can help with supplies such as food, litterboxes and other supplies if our shelter stock is full
  • You are not required to keep the pet in your home until they are adopted, only until they are healthy and adoptable. 
  • There are anywhere from 2-5 staff members assigned daily to assist with the foster program, we're here for you!
  • The CAP Foster Program helps about 1000 needy pets each year, and with YOUR help we can save more!

Have a Pet to Surrender?

The CAP Foster Program does not admit animals directly from the public. All animals placed into the Foster Program must first be surrendered to the shelter, evaluated by shelter staff, and recommended for foster care by shelter management. Please do not contact the Foster Home Coordinators with surrender / intake inquiries.

Fostering Myths vs Facts

MythMy place is too small, I don't have the room to foster

Fact: Fostering doesn't actually take up that much space. Foster cats and kittens can be set up in a spare bathroom, bedroom or laundry room, and can be kept in a large kennel while you are away for safety. We usually recommend dogs be kenneled while you are away also. 

 

Myth: I can't foster because I have other pets

Fact: It is highly recommended (and required in some cases) that foster pets be isolated and kept separate, so your own pets will be away from them for the most part. We recommend isolating new foster pets for 1-2 weeks so they will have time to get healthy and to ensure they are not carrying illnesses that were not apparent when they were surrendered to the shelter. In most cases we can supply a kennel/crate for your foster pet to stay in while you are away.

 

Myth: I'm worried I will get too attached to my foster and won't be able to bring them back for adoption 

Fact: Obviously your foster pet is the cutest animal in the world and deserves the best home possible. It will be hard to say goodbye, but know that pet will live a long and happy life because you fostered them in their time of need. Also, saying goodbye means you are making room for new foster pets! 

  

Myth I have a 9-5 job and don't have time to foster

Fact: Fostering some pets surprisingly requires little time during your busy day. Give them attention in the morning before work and spend quality time with them in the evening to make sure they are adjusting and doing well. Many pets are on daily medications which can also be given before and after work. Keep foster pets kenneled when you are away to keep them from getting into trouble.

 

Myth: I can't take on the financial responsibilty, I just don't have the money

Fact: CAP covers all basic medical care including spay/neuter, all vaccinations, microchipping, deworming, veterinary evaluations, x-rays, surgeries and bloodwork. If able, we can help provide food and supplies, but ask that you help with that as much as possible so we can provide our pets onsite with adequate supplies. CAP relies on donations for food and most supplies for ALL of our pets, any help you can provide is greatly appreciated. 

 

Myth: I have children so I can't foster

Fact: You can certainly foster if you have children! With supervision, children have the opportunity to learn how to care for pets, play with them and socialize them. Just be sure that your children wash their hands before and after handling the foster pet. Also, keep in mind that if your child has a weakened immune system or is easily susceptible to communicable diseases, you may want to take extra precautions when they are interacting with your foster pets. Be responsible and only take foster pets that are friendly with children and never leave them unattended with each other.

 
Become a Foster Parent for Citizens for Animal Protection!