Do you have a sweet spot for all things furry, but are not ready to adopt for some reason or another? Or maybe you know you will be able to care for a pet for the short term, but are not sure about your long term living situation. Now could be the perfect time to become a Foster Care Guardian and open your home and your heart to a special needs pet.

Click for Foster Care Application

What Is Foster Care?

Foster Care is an opportunity to care and love for a special needs animal in your own home, without having to make the long term commitment of ownership. In addition, North Shore Animal League America provides all medical care the pet may need at no cost in our facility in Port Washington, New York.

Why Is Foster Care so Important?

The League's Foster Care unit currently works round the clock to care and provide for all the special needs animals in our care. However, we only have space for 150 pets at a time. Each time you bring a pet into your own home to be fostered, you provide the space for us to take in another little animal that needs our special care and attention.

What Types of Pets Need to be Fostered?

All types! A foster home is a perfect short term layover for these pets that will heal better and be more happier in your home.

Examples:

• A pregnant mother cat that needs a warm and loving environment to give birth and raise her litter.
• A newly born puppy that needs special attention and love that only a Foster Care parent can provide.
• A dog with a broken leg who has been rescued and fully cared for by our professional medical team, but needs a warm and friendly place to recuperate until he is ready to be put up for adoption.

What Kind of People Are Eligible to Become Foster Guardians?

Foster parenting is an opportunity to make a difference in an animal's life. Young or old, male or female, single or married is not important. We are looking for caring, compassionate individuals, 18 years of age or older, who live within 50 miles of the League and are willing to donate a portion of their lives to helping animals. Below are the basic requirements of being a Foster Care Guardian:

How Do I Become a Foster Care Guardian?

North Shore Animal League America provides all the training you will need to become a Foster Care Guardian.

The Foster Care Application Process:

Step 1: Fill out and submit the Foster Care Application.

Step 2: The League will follow up on your references and contact you to set up your first Foster Care Training Session.

Step 3: Come down to the League! Attend a Foster Care Open house or personal Foster Care Training Session

Step 4: Chose your first Foster Care Pet and start to share the love!

Click for Foster Care Application