The role of a foster home
As a foster home for a dog or cat, you will provide temporary care for an animal in need until we can find a suitable permanent home. Becoming a foster home is easy and there is absolutely no cost or long-term obligation. Foster homes are vital to our success. Simply put, they save lives. We rely on them. Sadly, every day in Alberta there are hundreds of pets waiting to be rescued and we desperately need your help. We believe that every pet deserves a second chance.
How to become a foster home:
- Attend our next online volunteer orientation via Zoom. Check our Upcoming Events page for the next date.
- During the orientation we will provide information on how to apply to foster.
- Complete the application and you will be contacted within 48 hours.
How the process works
Our goal is to make the fostering experience as enjoyable as possible. Each pet we rescue is assessed by a SCARS intake coordinator before it is matched to a suitable individual or family. If a pet has special needs, it will be placed in a foster home that is able to meet those needs. Our foster home coordinator will meet with you to discuss the type of animal that would suit your lifestyle, comfort zone, and level of experience.
What we provide
SCARS provides everything. This includes food, treats, and supplies such as a pet kennel, collar, leash, toys, blankets, and so forth. If the animal requires veterinary visits, the expense is directly billed to SCARS. We will also support you in taking courses that will enhance your ability to assist our foster animals. Courses can include completing your animal first aid certification or attending a dog training class. All we ask is that you discuss it with us first to ensure we are able to cover the expenses on your behalf.
What we ask in return
Your role is to provide everything a happy, healthy pet needs. This includes regular feedings, exercise, warm shelter, love and attention. If you choose to foster a puppy or dog, we may also ask that you help us showcase the pet at an adoption event.
There are many ways to participate
For example, you can take it to a media appearance or to an adoption event. If you are not available to participate in an event, then we ask that you allow one of our volunteers to pick up the adoptable pet and take it to an event on your behalf.
The rewards of fostering
As a foster home, you are helping an animal learn to trust and bond with people. For many of our animals bonding has not occurred before. Just think what it means to an animal to go from hunger, pain and neglect to a new life of comfort, safety and attention.
You’ll be amazed by how grateful they are for your help
They can’t wait to give you all the love they have. If you find that the pet chosen for you doesn’t suit your home, that’s not a problem. You can return the pet to us at any time and for any reason. We only ask that you give us as much notice as possible so we can arrange for an alternative home.
