Find out how you can become a temporary foster parent to a pet in need. Download the Foster Parent Application. Word .doc (660k) or Acrobat pdf (369k)

Be a Foster Parent

Is there a safe space in your heart and home for an angel? From time to time Helen Woodward Animal Center receives special pets that need foster care until they are ready to meet their new families and go home to stay.

Maybe you can provide a safe haven with the love and care these little angels need.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is foster care important? 

Animals are fostered for a variety of reasons.  Some are too young for adoption, some need a home in which to recover after a medical procedure, some are pregnant or nursing, and some need more socialization.  Foster families provide the love and stability these animals need to be happy and healthy, both mentally and physically.  When an animal has been in a foster home, it is more confident and social; therefore it transitions into its new home with ease! 

Foster homes are also important because they provide more room at the Center; therefore we can help other shelters by taking in their animals.  We have a limited amount of kennel space, so when foster families take in animals, they are also helping other animals by opening up a kennel.  There are many animals in need, so the more animals we can take in the better! 

How long will I be fostering an animal? 

Generally, the foster time period ranges from 2-4 weeks.  The time period can vary, however, depending on the needs of each pet. 

What will I be fostering? 

Orphaned puppies and kittens: 

We send orphaned puppies and kittens to foster homes when they are too young to be spayed or neutered.  This is where they will receive the love and socialization that is so important in these early months.  They are sent out in pairs or groups of three because it is very important for these little ones to have the company of their siblings. 

Pregnant moms: 

Occasionally we get adult dogs and cats that are pregnant.  A shelter environment is very stressful for these expectant moms so it is very important for them to have a temporary place to relax, be comfortable and have their babies.

Moms with babies: 

New moms, both cats and dogs, are always in need of quiet and relaxing foster homes.  A shelter environment is very stressful for them.  Typically, this is an easy foster.  The babies are nursing for the first 3-4 weeks.  Dogs need a quiet place and someone to take them out throughout the day.  Cats need a quiet place to raise their babies.

Adult dogs or cats in need of socialization: 

Some adult dogs and cats do not do well in a shelter environment.  They may just be scared or lack certain social skills.  A couple of weeks in a loving home helps their self esteem and gives them the confidence they need to find a good home during their stay at the Center.

Dogs or cats being treated for medical reasons: 

When we have dogs or cats who are being treated medically and are not ready to go up for adoption yet, they need a caring foster home to help them recuperate.  When they are fully recovered, they will be ready to return to Helen Woodward Animal Center and find their forever families.

What is provided to foster parents? 

Helen Woodward Animal Center will provide you with all the supplies that are necessary, including food, bowls, toys, crate, etc. as well as train you to care for your new foster animals. 

The adoptions department has a full time veterinarian and medical staff.  Any medical needs, check ups or health issues will be taken care of through Helen Woodward Animal Center. 

Getting started: 

If you have any questions regarding the foster care program or would like more information, please contact Trisha Crawford at: 858-756-4117 ext. 375. 

If you are interested and want to get started, you can download an application.  You can drop it by the Center or fax it to: 858-756-1466. 

You may also mail it to:

Helen Woodward Animal Center
Attention: Trisha Crawford
PO Box 64
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067