Become a Foster

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Be Their Bridge to a Better Life

Foster homes are the heart of PAWS of Adams County. Every time someone opens their home to a foster animal, it gives that pet a safe place to heal, learn, and prepare for a forever family—and it allows PAWS to help another animal in need.

You do not have to be an expert to foster. What matters most is patience, compassion, and a willingness to provide a temporary home.

What Does a Foster Home Do?

A foster family provides day-to-day care for a PAWS animal while we work toward adoption. Depending on the animal, that may include feeding, exercise, socialization, basic training, helping with housebreaking or crate training, and simply giving the animal time to feel safe.

Some animals settle in quickly. Others may need extra patience while they learn what it means to live in a home and trust people again.

What Does PAWS Provide?

PAWS remains financially responsible for the foster animal while they are in our program.

We provide or cover approved needs such as veterinary care, vaccinations, microchipping, deworming, spay/neuter, medications, and other necessary medical treatment.

We also work with our fosters throughout the process. If you have questions or concerns, you are not expected to figure everything out on your own.

Food is provided and crates, bedding, leashes, and other supplies if needed.

How Long Will I Foster?

There is no single answer. Some animals may need a foster home for only a short time, while others may remain in foster care for several weeks or months before the right adopter comes along.

We want potential fosters to understand that fostering is a commitment, but we also know life happens. Communication with the PAWS team is extremely important if circumstances change.

What If I Have Other Pets?

Having pets of your own does not automatically prevent you from fostering. We carefully consider the needs and temperament of both the foster animal and the resident pets before placement.

Resident pets should be appropriately vaccinated and dogs should be kept current on heartworm prevention.

Introductions should be done slowly and safely, and PAWS can help guide you through that process.

What If I Fall in Love?

It happens. ❤️

Fostering can create a very strong bond. If you decide you would like to adopt your foster animal, contact PAWS so we can discuss the adoption process and make sure it is the right fit.

But remember: saying goodbye to a foster is not losing them. It means you helped them reach the life they were waiting for—and you've opened your home to save another.

Why Foster?

Because sometimes the only thing standing between an animal in need and a second chance is an available foster home.

You provide the home.

PAWS provides the support.

Together, we save a life.

 

Ready to Foster?

Complete Our Foster Application here