There’s a forever home out there
for each and every Companion animal. Sometimes it just takes a little while to find it.
That’s where our foster parents come in.
These compassionate animal lovers open their hearts and their homes to
provide temporary shelter for our homeless cats and dogs. Through their kindness and generosity, we gain valuable time and
the insight we need to place each dog and cat in the perfect, permanent home.
What Does A Foster Parent Do?
Foster parents provide security, love, companionship and the nurturing home environment that all
cats and dogs need to fully blossom.
They play a key role in helping us evaluate a rescued animal’s behavior, temperament and energy level. Through
their daily interaction in the home, we gather important information like whether a dog is house trained, patient with children,
aggressive or shy with cats and other dogs, their food bowls and toys. The more we learn about a dog through foster care,
the more successful we will be in creating the ideal match.
The same key role applies with a cat.
A foster family's observations can tell us if the cats are shy or outgoing, friendly or aggressive with children, adults,
other cats or dogs. Do they use the scratching post? Are they fussy eaters or do they et anything and everything in their
bowls? Are they wanting to be with people or are they aloof? All these areas of information can help make an adoption a success
or a failure.
What's Involved In Foster Parenting?
Most Companion Animals are healthy, well-adjusted and
transition quickly and easily into a new, permanent family. However, some animals require a little extra care, ranging from
post-op rehab to specific food and exercise regimens, to rebuild their self esteem. Others may need time to develop better
social skills with people or other animals.
The average length of time a dog or cat is fostered is measured in weeks, but fostering can last anywhere from a
few days to a few months.
In addition to attending to the animal’s basic needs, foster parents must ensure that their foster dogs and cats are
available to attend our Adoption Fairs.
We occasionally show dogs and cats by private appointment in the foster home or at a local pet store, and ask for
the foster parent’s cooperation in this regard.
Although we prefer that a dog or cat remain in one foster home until a permanent home is found, any amount of time
that you give to fostering an animal is very helpful and greatly appreciated.
Companions In Waiting is in URGENT need of foster
homes. If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, please email us or call us at (650) 328-0474.
