Individuals who love animals will love being a Foster Parent Volunteer at Berkeley-East Bay Humane Society! Opening your heart and home to provide temporary care for a cat or dog is a tremendously rewarding experience for both the foster parent and the foster animal.
Foster Parent Volunteers are an integral part of BEBHS’ mission of saving animal lives. Countless numbers of kittens, puppies, cats and dogs receive a temporary home and wonderful care from our dedicated team of foster parents until they are ready to be adopted into a permanent home.
Fostering is a great way to bring a furry companion into your life when you are not quite ready to make a lifetime commitment. Fostering also allows you to volunteer from the comfort of your own home!
BEBHS provides the following benefits to Foster Parent Volunteers:
• all supplies needed to care for kittens, puppies, cats or dogs
• group and individual training and instruction to help you care for your foster pet
• access to medical and behavior staff to answer any questions that you have
• full-service veterinary hospital providing regular screenings and medical services
• adoption placements for any pets that you foster
Foster Parent Volunteers provide the following:
• transportation to and from the shelter and medical appointments
• a warm, clean, safe, and caring home environment.
To learn more about being a Foster Parent Volunteer call our Volunteer Manager, Cindy Shelby, at 510-845-7735, ext. 13, or send an email to volunteer@berkeleyhumane.org. If you are interested in being a Foster Parent Volunteer, please make an appointment for an interview. It is important that everyone in the family who will be involved in fostering attends the interview.
More about Fostering...
Why is a foster program important?
Throughout the year, we often receive underage kittens and puppies who require special attention and care in feeding, socializing, and training. This is best accomplished in a home rather than a shelter atmosphere.
Some animals need a break from the shelter environment and thrive in a secure, loving, and stable home environment – even if only temporary. The positive experience of being in foster care can make any dog or cat a better candidate for adoption into a permanent home.
In addition, the foster program allows us to intake animals from municipal shelters when space is limited. The more foster homes available, the more animals we can help.
How long will I need to foster an animal?
On average, kittens, cats, puppies, and dogs need fostering for 2 to 8 weeks. Occasionally, special cases arise in which a shorter or longer foster period is necessary.
Are there any expenses I need to know about?
Your primary concern is providing a loving and secure environment for the animal. We will provide medical care and vaccinations, food, grooming, and supplies such as toys, litter boxes, and crates.
What happens if I feel uncomfortable with my foster arrangement?
If, for some reason, you are not happy or comfortable with your foster arrangement or you are unable to continue caring for the animal, we will always take the animal back into our care at any time.
