Foster Program

Occasionally we receive companion animals that may require time in a foster home before they can be made available for adoption. This may be due to age, medical needs, or behavior issues. Border Paws is seeking to provide a stimulating, home environment to these animals while they become accustomed to being well mannered companion animals, prior to adoption.

Fostering an animal is a major commitment, often requiring a few weeks to several months, before the animal can be placed for adoption. If you feel that you would be a great foster parent to an animal in need, please complete our foster application. Upon receiving your application, we will contact you once a foster home is required, to schedule your Foster Orientation.

To become a Foster Parent, you must meet the following requirements:

be 18 years of age or older
provide government issued ID, with your current address
be able and willing to commit as much time and energy to animal(s) in your care as required
allow a home visit by our operations manager, prior to approval into the program and during the fostering term

Not over 18 years but interested in fostering? Become a part of our Teen Foster Program! Participation in this program can be used as volunteer/stewardship hours. The requirements are:

be at least 13 years of age
have a parent/guardian who is an approved foster for Border Paws Animal Shelter
complete our foster orientation

Foster Application

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at foster@borderpaws.ca.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

When will I be contacted?

The waiting period varies based on need. There are times of the year that we need more foster parents, particularly in the spring and fall.

Will I be responsible for food and other supplies?

We provide you with food, toys, litter and bedding as well as any other supplies needed.

How long am I required to foster a particular animal?

Each animal has special needs. The animal may need to be fostered for a long period of time, or only for a couple of weeks! The average fostering term is between two weeks to two months. Kittens and puppies are usually returned from foster once they have reached a healthy weight to be spayed or neutered. This is usually around 8-10 weeks of age.

If I have my own pets, is it safe to foster?

To participate in this program, all of your own animals must be fully vaccinated. Before you take any foster animal home, you will be informed of any precautions that are needed. We also recommend that if you are fostering puppies or kittens, that they are kept separate from your own animals.

We provide medical care for all of our foster animals should the need arise. We ask that if a foster becomes ill in your care, that you contact the shelter for direction on how to proceed. However if your animal becomes sick, it is your responsibility to take your own animal to your veterinarian. Any cost that is incurred will be at your own expense.

Is there a risk I will pick up a disease from an animal I am fostering?

While there are certain diseases that animals carry that may affect humans, there is a very low risk of this happening. By using proper hygiene when handling the animals, the spread of disease is greatly reduced.