How to Become a Foster Parent for Pets in Cincinnati

While many animal lovers enjoy adopting rescue animals from shelters, a few people in Cincinnati are willing to open their homes to foster animals, providing temporary care until a dog or cat can be placed in a permanent home. Often basic fees for the animal are covered, including vet fees, and occasionally equipment. The main expenses of fostering an animal in the greater Cincinnati area, then, are time, care and emotional output. While different organizations have varying guidelines to become a foster home for animals, they usually share basic requirements.

Things You'll Need

Phone and Internet access
Fenced-in backyard (if possible)
Vehicle
Basic pet care equipment (food and water bowl)

Instructions

How to Become a Foster Home to Pets in Cincinnati
- 1
  Review animal shelter and adoption agencies in your area to decide with which you would like to partner. Many nonprofit shelters exist around the city and provide helpful websites. Ensure that the agency is a legitimate, professional animal shelter. Decide whether you want to foster cats, dogs or both. Ask about shelters' application process when deciding with whom to partner.
- 2
  Prepare your home for pet fostering. While you can refer to the desired agency's website for guidelines, in general, ensure your home is clean, safe and pet-friendly. It is recommended that you have a fenced-in backyard, though it may not be necessary for all foster opportunities. Gain permission from people who can serve as references for you.
- 3
  Fill out foster application online or in person. Be prepared for a home visit. Also be prepared for questions about your schedule and availability to high-need animals, sick, injured or abused.
- 4
  Communicate clearly and realistically with your organization about what level of commitment you are available for. Many agencies recommend small breaks in between foster periods. Review the ASPCA's tips for saying good-bye to foster animals.