Will I have to pay for any of the food, etc.?

When a foster animal arrives at your home, it comes with a collar, leash, kennel, bedding, food, treats, toys and any medications required. Should you wish to supplement the supplies on your own, that is your decision.

How do I become a foster home?

Simply let us know that you are interested by calling 455-4278 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . Our Foster Home Coordinator or another volunteer will contact you to set up a mutually convenient time to come to your home to meet with you. They will gather information regarding your history with animals, your lifestyle and examine your home to ensure the safety and security of the foster animal. When approved, we try to move a rescued animal in as soon as possible.

How long do animals stay in foster care?

The length of time that each animal stays in foster care is variable. Some animals stay for a few days, some stay for a few months. It is in the animal's best interest to have consistency when in foster care, so we endeavor to keep them in one foster home until their permanent home is found. You help in ensuring that your foster animal attends our Adoption Days will also play an important role in how quickly your foster dog is adopted.

What if the foster animal does not fit into my household?

We want the fostering experience to be positive for both the rescued animal and the foster family. Often times, when a dog is moved to a foster home they are confused and unsettled. It may take a few days to a week for the animal to selttle in, but if the animal is just not a good match for your household, hart will transfer the animal to another foster home as soon as a transfer can be arranged. We will then find a suitable foster to match you.

What about my resident animals?

All resident animals must have their vaccinations up to date and be either spayed or neutered prior to a rescued animal being placed in your home.

Will I have to transport the animal?

It is helpful if foster families can transport their animals to and from Adoption Days and vet appointments. However, not having transport does not preclude you from being a foster home, it just makes it more challenging. We also encourage our foster homes to take their foster animals to off leash areas, if suitable, and out for errands and visits.

What if I want to go away while I am fostering?

hart will arrange for alternative accommodations for your foster animals during that time period and appreciate as much advance notice as possible.

What if I want to adopt my foster animal?

Any foster family who would like to become the forever home to their foster animal will be given a discounted rate on the adoption fee.

What if the animal damages my home?

hart encourages the use of the kennel that is supplied and strongly recommends that the animal is not left unsupervised in your home. Kennel training keeps items out of harm's way and makes the foster dog more adoptable. Many of our foster animals are not housetrained, and accidents are to be expected while training takes place. hart cannot be responsible for any damage done to your home or property as a result of fostering as we do not have the resources.

If you are interested in becoming a foster home for hart or would like additional information, please call 455-4278 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .