Be a Foster Parent

Is there a safe space in your heart and home for an angel? From time to time Helen Woodward Animal Center receives special pets that need foster care until they are ready to meet their new families and go home to stay.

Maybe you can provide a safe haven with the love and care these little angels need.

Below is a recent story about Reva, a Lab mix saved by the foster program.

Reva

Reva became very ill just a couple of days after she arrived at Helen Woodward Animal Center last September. When her high temperature, congestion, and lethargy were diagnosed as pneumonia the five month old Labrador-Greyhound mix was put on antibiotics. Further exams revealed that she also had Coccidiomycosis (a.k.a. “Valley Fever”). In the worst case scenario Valley Fever can affect the bones, joints, skin and other organs. In Reva’s case, she experienced lameness due to the fungal infection in her joints. When our medical staff tried various medications and tests Reva began to get better, but Valley Fever can take up to a year to diminish.

Reva spent all of November and half of December in the care of a wonderful foster mom who grew to love her. But one day after playtime in the field, Reva began limping. Another exam showed that she had broken her knee and needed surgery. Now on a limited exercise regimen, Reva returned to her original foster mom so she could heal and be surrounded by constant love.

There are lots of “Reva’s” that need foster homes. Their care is only possible because of the caring and dedicated volunteers who have become foster parents. The need is great. If you have the room in your home and the love in your heart, please find out how you can be a foster parent for our orphaned pets. The Foster Program is a very emotionally rewarding way to help save the lives of animals and provide them a loving environment until they are ready for adoption.

Today we’re proud to say that Reva is in a quality home with her new forever family, thankful for the foster mom who helped get her there.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1) How long would I keep the animal?

The typical foster term is approximately three weeks; however it varies depending on the specific case.

2) What does Helen Woodward Animal Center provide?

The Center provides food, medication and veterinarian care. All other supplies are supplied by the foster (i.e. litter box, food bowls, bedding, etc)

3) Would I be in charge of the adoption process for the animal I am fostering?

 The foster care provider is not responsible for the animal's adoption. Helen Woodward Animal Center's staff will find homes for the animals. We do, however, ask the foster care provider to share their observations and experiences with the animal in order to help us match the needs of the pet with the desires of its new family.

4) How do I become a foster parent?

#1: Complete an application and send it to foster program supervisor, Trisha Crawford. You can mail, fax, or email your application.
#2: Your application will be reviewed then you will be contacted to arrange for a home inspection and interview.
#3: The final step in the process is a training session. After that, you will be ready to take home your new foster friend(s).