Foster Care FAQs
I want to foster a pet, where do I start? 
I have filled out the adoption application, what next?
How Do I Become A Foster Caretaker?
How Long Do Animals Stay in Foster?
I want to foster a pet, where do I start?
Congratulations on your decision to foster a shelter dog or cat. We ask that you take a moment and read through our Foster Process . If you still have questions and would like to talk with someone please contact the shelter at (740) 323-2100.
What Is Foster?
The Foster Program consists of a unique and elite group of volunteers. Foster caretakers open their homes and hearts to house animals in a safe, healthy, caring environment for a temporary period of time until a permanent adoptive home can be found. Caretakers work with LCHS to vigorously and responsibly pursue expedient placement and delivery of a well matched companion animal to an adoptive family. The goal of foster is to save the life of an animal by supplying proper supportive care in the way of socialization, medical care, grooming, exercise, attention and basic needs in an effort to provide a healthy, balanced pet. Foster is a critical bridge between surrender and permanent adoption.
Foster homes play a crucial role in rehabilitating displaced animals. They are in a unique position to help abused or neglected animals learn how to love and trust again. Foster homes can help these animals become more “adoptable” by providing socialization and basic training. Through teaching or re-teaching an animal how to live in a home setting, foster homes help ensure a smooth and successful transition into a permanent adoptive home.
I have filled out the adoption application, what next?
Once the approval process is complete, you may pick up your animal at the shelter. The approval process can take place in a day, or may take longer, depending on availability of your references. If you have not received a response on your application within 48 hours, contact the Shelter at (740) 323-2100 or email homewardbound@windstream.net to report the problem.
How Do I Become A Foster Caretaker?
1.) Complete and submit an application. It’s important you fill out the application completely—incomplete applications are the number one reason for delays in the process. Applications are available at the shelter or online: Foster Application.
2.) Once you’ve submitted your application, we will contact the references you’ve listed. Please be sure this information is accurate and that you’ve included the correct phone numbers.
3.) The foster coordinator will verify your references, then schedule an appointment with you to conduct a home visit. During the home visit, the coordinator will explain the program in detail, view where animal will stay, and discuss your preferences, limitations and expectations regarding foster care. At the end of the home visit, the coordinator will review the Foster Agreement with you and ask that you sign it. We encourage you to thoroughly read the agreement and write down any questions you might have prior to your home visit. The home visit is also your opportunity to ask any questions you have about the Foster Program. Home visits take about an hour.
4.) Once the approval process is complete, the Foster Coordinator will consider your capabilities and preferences to match you with a suitable animal. You may then pick up your assigned animal and supplies at the Shelter or from the Foster Program.
The approval process can take place in a day, or may take longer, depending on availability of your references. If you have not received a response on your application within 48 hours, contact the Shelter at (740) 323-2100 or email info@lchspets.org to report the problem.
How Long Do Animals Stay in Foster?
The time an animal needs to spends in foster care can range from one night to several months. Foster animals that will return to the Shelter must remain in foster care for at least two weeks from the date of vaccination. Any time commitment a Foster Care-taker can make is desperately needed and appreciated.
What Support Will I Receive?
Some new pets settle right in to their new home, others may take more time to adjust. Don’t suffer in silence if you have concerns—help is available! LCHS Foster Caretakers enjoy the support of the foster coordinator, shelter staff, veterinarians, an on-staff vet tech, and a professional trainer. We can offer solutions or resources that address adjustment, bonding and behavioral issues that will ensure you every chance for success with your foster pet.
LCHS will also provide food, veterinary care, monthly preventatives, flea/tick medications, litter, training/orientation and comprehensive printed literature covering most circumstances.
What If It's Not Working Out?
Occasionally, despite best efforts and intentions, things just don’t work out. If you must return your foster animal, coordinate return with the Foster Coordinator or Shelter Staff. You may experience a brief wait until shelter or alternate foster space is available before returning your foster animal.
For more information download our brochure: Foster Program