We provide the tools, you provide the love.
When you become a foster hero, you get to save the lives of animals every day. Heroes help provide the love and care our animals need and free up space at the shelter so we can help more animals. We are always in need of new foster heroes.
Foster Hero FAQ
What animals need fostering?
- Bottle baby kittens/puppies
- Orphan kittens/puppies
- Moms and kittens/puppies
- Cats/Dogs with medical needs
- Cats/Dogs who need socialization
- Cats/Dogs who need a break from shelter life
What are my responsibilities as a foster?
Your responsibilities are:
- To care for and love the animal until it is ready for adoption
- To provide food, water, and shelter
- Contact the foster coordinator if the animal becomes ill
- To bring the foster in for appointments and to meet potential adopters
What does it cost to foster?
We try our best to provide the tools you need to care for the animals. However, the program runs on donations so we cannot guarantee that we will always have supplies to offer. You may be asked to provide food, litter, toys, dishes, etc.
Can I foster if I work a full-time job?
Yes! Many of our foster heroes work full-time jobs. Some of our animals may need more round-the-clock care, such as bottle baby kittens and puppies. There are other animals who need a foster hero that will be just fine while you are away for the day.
Can I foster if I have my own pets?
Yes! We do encourage you to keep your pets separate from your foster animals. This is the safest option for preventing the spread of disease and reducing any chance of personality conflicts. We also understand that it can be difficult to keep animals totally separate from one another. You may choose whatever is best for your home. If you plan on integrating your fosters with your own pets, please talk with the foster coordinator or clinic staff to discuss appropriate introduction techniques.
How do I feed a bottle baby?
Here is a tutorial on how to feed a bottle baby:
How much time do I need to spend with my foster animal?
The amount of time your animal needs each day will depend on their age, energy level, medical and behavioral needs. You should prepare to spend at least one hour a day socializing, playing, feeding, and caring for your foster pet.
How long will my foster stay in my care?
The length of stay is different for every animal, depending on the reason they need a foster hero. We also try our best to work with you to find an animal that fits your family. If you need to bring your foster animal back at any time, please contact the foster coordinator.
What kind of appointments do I need to bring my foster animal to?
We will schedule a foster check-up when you pick up your foster animal. The foster check-up occurs at Dorchester Paws. This check-up is for your foster pet to receive shots, flea and tick prevention, and more. We will also schedule your foster pet for their spay/neuter surgery, which is done on campus at Dorchester Paws!
Can I adopt my foster animal?
Most definitely! Foster parents have the first choice of adopting their foster animals. Adoption fees will apply.
I have more questions. Who do I contact?
Didn’t see your question answered here? Contact our Foster Coordinator at foster@dorchesterpaws.org. You can also call 843-871-5301.
If you have an emergency, contact the phone number listed on your foster agreement.
Resources:
Meet your Foster Coordinator: Abby Levine!
Meet your Foster Manager: Erika Nemeth!
As your main contact at the shelter, she will be available to answer questions, address concerns, and assist with any issues during her working hours. You can reach either directly at foster@dorchesterpaws.org
