A Lifeline for Shelters and Animals in Crisis

In 2024, an estimated 5.8 million dogs and cats entered animal shelters and rescues. And with many shelters operating at or beyond capacity and roughly 607,000 animals euthanized in 2024, foster homes remain a vital lifeline for pets in need.

Fostering is a flexible, rewarding way to make a real difference in an animal’s life. It’s also a chance to “test drive” pet parenthood, giving you the experience of caring for a pet without the long-term commitment.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about fostering pets: what it actually involves, how it benefits both animals and people, common misconceptions, and how to get started. 

Why People Foster

Fostering doesn’t just change lives—it saves them. Every time someone opens their home to a shelter animal, it frees up shelter space and resources for another next pet in need. For overcrowded shelters, especially during busy seasons or emergencies, foster homes can be the difference between life and death for vulnerable animals.

But the impact goes far beyond logistics. In a foster home, pets can decompress, recover, acclimate to life in a home, and learn how to trust. Sick animals get the quiet care they need to heal. Nervous animals start to open up. Kittens learn to play. Dogs remember how to be dogs. That transformation can be deeply meaningful, not just for the animal, but for the person caring for them.

As for the benefits to foster parents, many say they keep fostering because of the joy and purpose it brings.

“Seeing a scared, shut-down dog wag their tail or curl up next to you for the first time never gets old,” says Marilyn Matthews, who has fostered dogs for nearly a decade. “You get to be part of their healing.” 

Types of Pet Fostering

Fostering a pet means providing a temporary home for an animal in need. You’re not adopting the pet permanently, but providing them with a safe and loving environment while they wait for their forever home.

There are many different types of fostering, and most shelters and rescues will work with you to find the right fit:

• Short-term fostering involves caring for an animal for a limited period—typically just a few days or weeks—to help cover gaps in shelter space, transport delays, or special events.
• Long-term fostering involves caring for a pet for an extended period (often several weeks or months) until they’re adopted. This type of fostering is especially helpful for pets who are harder to place, such as seniors, those with ongoing medical needs, or animals recovering from trauma.
• Medical fostering supports animals recovering from illness, surgery, or injury. These pets may require medication, rest, and a calm environment to recover.
• Behavioral fostering gives fearful or undersocialized animals a chance to gain confidence, learn to trust, or learn basic training, often with help from an experienced foster.
• Emergency fostering happens on short notice and usually in response to crises like natural disasters, hoarding cases, or overcrowded shelters.
• Foster-to-adopt allows potential adopters to care for a pet temporarily while deciding if they’re a good long-term match. If it works out, the pet can stay for good!

Pet Fostering by Species

The experience of fostering can vary quite a bit depending on the type of animal you bring home. Here’s what to expect with each type. 

• Dogs: Fostering a dog can be an active and engaging experience. Many dogs benefit from daily walks, crate training, and basic behavior support. Some may need help with potty training or learning to feel safe in a home. If you enjoy structure and movement and have the time to commit, dogs can make wonderful foster companions.
• Cats: Cats tend to be more independent and lower-maintenance than dogs, making them a great choice for quieter households or apartment living. That said, they still need daily care—playtime, companionship, regular feeding, and a clean litter box are all essential. 
• Small animals (like rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and birds): These animals can be an excellent option for first-time fosters or people with limited space. They still need daily care, enrichment, and attention, but their needs are generally easier to manage.

What the Fostering Process Looks Like

So, how does fostering actually work? While the process can vary slightly depending on the organization, here’s what you can generally expect:

• Application and screening: Start by filling out a short application with a shelter or rescue. They’ll ask about your home, schedule, and preferences. A quick call or home visit may follow.
• Matching with an animal: Once approved, the group will match you with a pet that fits your comfort level. You’ll always have the option to accept or pass on a placement. It’s about finding the right fit for both of you.
• Orientation or training: Some groups offer a short orientation.
• Ongoing support: Most foster programs provide all necessary supplies, vet care, and regular check-ins. You’ll have guidance along the way, plus access to a supportive network of fellow fosters.

Benefits of Fostering

Fostering comes with a range of benefits for you, the animals you foster, and the pet population at large. 

For the Pet

• A calmer, safer environment to decompress: Foster homes offer pets a much-needed break from the stress, noise, and confinement of the shelter, says Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society. This peaceful setting gives them space to relax, recover, and begin to feel secure again.
• A chance to heal emotionally and physically: Many foster pets are recovering from surgery, illness, or trauma. A nurturing foster home helps them build trust, regain strength, and mentally and physically prepare for adoption.
• A clearer picture of the pet’s personality: “Fosters can provide shelters and rescues with valuable insights into a pet’s behavior, helping them to find a family that’s a good fit for that pet,” Castle says. 
• A way to free up resources for other pets: Castle adds that fostering also saves lives by freeing up space for additional dogs and cats to come into a shelter. 

For the Foster Parent

• A sense of purpose and fulfillment: Knowing that you’re helping save a life and playing a key role in an animal’s journey toward a forever home can be incredibly rewarding and meaningful.
• Enjoy animal companionship: Fostering is a great option if you love animals but aren’t in a place to adopt. It gives you the joy of living with a pet while keeping your long-term plans flexible.
• A way to explore pet parenthood: “For those not quite ready to adopt a pet or are unsure what type of dog or cat best suits their lifestyle, fostering is a great, low-risk way to test the waters,” Castle says. 
• A built-in community: Fostering connects you with others who care deeply about animals. You’ll find support, advice, and camaraderie from other volunteers who understand the ups and downs of fostering.

Debunking Pet Fostering Myths

Many people are interested in fostering but have worries about the process. However, most of those concerns are more manageable than they seem. Let’s break down a few of the most common concerns. 

“I’ll get too attached.”

Yes, saying goodbye can be tough, but it’s also one of the most beautiful parts of fostering. “Watching a pet you helped heal and grow find a loving home is one of the best parts,” Matthews says. “I remind myself that every time I say goodbye, it means I get to say hello to the next one who needs me.”

“I don’t have enough experience.”

You don’t need to be a professional trainer or vet to foster—just someone with compassion, patience, and a willingness to learn.  Many foster caregivers start as complete beginners, and most shelters and rescues provide clear guidance and resources. For example, Castle says Best Friends Animal Society provides any training the foster volunteer needs, such as how to bottle feed kittens or training tips for high-energy dogs. 

“I can’t afford it.”

Most organizations cover the essentials, including food, supplies, and veterinary care. You’re donating your time and home, not your wallet. If you’re ever unsure, just ask what’s provided upfront.

“I don’t have time for a long-term commitment.”

Fostering is flexible. “Fostering stints can be as short as a night or weekend, can last several weeks, or can extend until the pet gets adopted,” Castle says. She adds that if something comes up—like travel plans—most organizations can arrange a temporary foster to step in until you’re available again. 

How to Get Started

Ready to take the next step? Here’s how to begin your fostering journey. 

• Reach out to local shelters or rescue groups: Search for animal shelters, rescues, or foster-based organizations in your area. Many have dedicated foster coordinators or applications right on their websites.
• Ask about their foster program and support system: Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Learn what types of animals they need help with, what’s expected of you, and what support they provide (like food, supplies, and vet care).
• Consider what kind of pet or timeframe works for you: Think about your lifestyle, space, and schedule. Are you available for a few weeks or just a weekend? Prefer cats over dogs? The more honest you are, the better the match.
• Prep your home for your foster guest: Create a safe, designated space, especially if you have other pets. Pet-proof the area, gather basics like bedding, bowls, and toys, and ask your organization if they’ll provide any of these items.

Fostering isn’t just a kindness—it’s a gift of comfort, safety, and hope for an animal in need, and a gift of purpose, connection, and joy for you.

If your heart is open and your home has a little room to spare, contact your local shelter or rescue group and ask about their foster program. That first conversation could be the start of something truly life-changing for both you and the animal you welcome in.