If you’ve ever considered helping a rescue animal, fostering a pet is a rewarding way to change lives, without the long-term commitment of adoption.
At dotsure.co.za, we’re passionate about animal welfare. When you take out a pet insurance policy with us, you’re also helping us contribute to the work of dedicated welfare vets at the Animal Anti-Cruelty League.
RELATED: JOINING FORCES FOR ANIMALS IN NEED
Is Fostering Right for You?
Before you apply to become a pet foster parent, take a moment to ask yourself a few important questions:
- Can you afford pet care essentials? While some shelters help with food and medical expenses, you may still need to cover some costs.
- Do you have time to care for an animal, especially one that may be recovering or need socialisation?
- Is your home pet-friendly, and does your landlord allow animals?
- Are your family or housemates on board with the idea of fostering?
- Do you already have pets, and how might they react to a temporary newcomer?
- Are there any upcoming life changes (like moving, travel, or work schedule shifts) that could interfere with your commitment?
How to Prepare for Fostering a Pet
Once you’ve made the decision to foster, preparation is essential to creating a safe, loving environment.
Foster Pets Take Time and Patience
Fostering takes daily dedication. Make time for feeding, walks, grooming, and play. Some pets may need extra care, especially if they’ve experienced trauma or illness.
Create a Safe Environment
Pet-proof your home by removing hazards such as exposed wires, accessible food, and open bins. Ensure they have a calm, quiet place to rest, especially in the first few days of adjustment.
Stock Up on Pet Supplies
Gather the basics before your foster pet arrives:
- Food and water bowls
- High-quality pet food
- Kennel or carrier
- Collar, leash, and ID tag
- Toys, beds, and blankets
- Litter box (for cats) or poo bags (for dogs)
Support Pet Adoptions
You’ll play a big role in their socialising, training, and preparing them for adoption. Sharing updates and photos with the shelter (and potential adopters) can make a big difference in helping them find the right forever home.
What to Expect When Fostering Dogs or Cats
If you’re new to fostering, it’s often best to start with an animal that doesn’t require intensive medical or behavioural care. This allows you to ease into the experience and build confidence.
Pet Fostering Duration
- Puppies and kittens are often fostered for 2 to 6 weeks, depending on their health and adoption readiness.
- Adult dogs and cats may stay longer, especially if they need time to heal or adjust to human interaction.
What Does it Mean to Foster a Pet?
Fostering is incredibly rewarding, but it’s not always easy.
- Be Patient: Healing, training, and trust take time. Your support helps pets transition out of survival mode and into loving companionship.
- Special Needs Pets: Only take on the challenge if you’re truly equipped and ready for the additional emotional and physical effort.
- Saying Goodbye: Many foster parents experience heartache when their temporary companions are adopted. But remember, your efforts are helping animals get the love they deserve.
Of course, sometimes you fall in love, and decide you just can’t let go. This is what’s affectionately known as a “foster fail”, and it’s more common than you might think!
Facing a Foster Fail?
If you’ve unexpectedly become a pet parent after fostering a pet, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn more about our affordable plans or to chat about how we can help your new companion get the care they need!
