Some Questions To Ask Yourself Before Becoming A Foster Parent

Can you separate your foster animals from your own pets?
For the safety and health of our pets and yours, we ask that you keep foster animals separated from your own pets until you have determined that the animal is healthy and socialized.

Are you willing to assume the risk of exposing your pets to a foster animal that may be harboring an illness?
No matter how careful we are, there is always a chance that a foster animal could become ill and your pets would be put at risk. It is mandatory that all of your own pets be current with their vaccinations. However, some diseases have no vaccinations available to prevent them.

Are you emotionally prepared to handle the death of a foster animal?
We cannot predict the future health of many animals that go into foster care. If a foster animal becomes sick or displays inappropriate aggression, it may be necessary to euthanize it. This can be a very emotional and heartbreaking time. We will have a staff member discuss this with you if it becomes necessary to euthanize a foster animal due to health related problems.

Are you able to spend quality time with your foster animal?
Foster animals, especially puppies and kittens, can be very time consuming and demanding. Socialization for all of our pets is just as important as good food, fresh water and a clean place to live.

Are you able to make the required time commitment to foster a cat or dog?
The time commitment varies depending upon each animal's situation. If you are unable to meet the time commitment needed to care for a foster animal, then please don't agree to become foster parents. If you find the foster animal requires more time than you originally anticipated, please don't hesitate to let us know. We will gladly place the pet in another foster home. Our animals deserve and need foster parents they can count on.

Do you understand that all animals in the foster care program remain the property of Yakima Valley Pet Rescue and Adoption Center?
We appreciate your willingness to help. Please keep in mind that although you have temporary care of an animal, it still belongs to the center and decisions regarding your foster animal must always be made with the center staff. Of course , you are always welcome to adopt your foster pet and give it a "forever" home!

We know, for their sake, that we can count on your support.

Download our foster agreement here.