The Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter Foster Program provides a caring environment for our animals until they are ready for their forever homes. Whether they are too small for spay/neuter surgery, in need of socialization, a mom with her babies that need a quiet space, or animals with special needs (like bottle babies), we are always looking for foster families to help out with the animals that need it most. Mt. Pleasant provides the training, supplies, and vet care; you supply the love.
How long will I care for my foster animals?
We prefer that you keep the animal until they are ready for surgery, which for kittens is 2-3 pounds, and for puppies at 12 weeks of age. The length of time you have the foster depends on how old they are when you start fostering. We will provide training and supplies.
Why do I need to keep my fosters away from my personal pets?
Animals that are sent out to foster might be too young to test for certain contagious diseases. In addition, they may have a cold or parasite that can transmit to your personal pet. For that reason, we ask that your foster animals always be kept separated.
Can I foster if I have a full-time job?
Yes! To ensure a successful foster period, we will make sure to pair you up with the right animal. You must live within 45 minutes of the Shelter and commit to regular vet visits and exams.
Can I adopt my foster animal?
Of course! This is a happy ending for everyone. A foster’s adoption application will be evaluated first. We hope that you will also continue to foster for us once you have adopted, if possible.
A Foster is someone who temporarily provides a loving home for one of our shelter pets until they are available for adoption. They have no intention of adopting the animal in their care. There may be times, however, when a Foster ‘fails’ and decides to adopt.
Foster-to-Adopt occurs when a person wishes to adopt one of our shelter pets, but that animal is not yet ready for adoption. Often this is because the animal is not of age to be spayed or neutered or is receiving medical care. They will foster the animal in their home until it is ready for adoption.
To understand the difference between Emergency and Non-Emergency situations.
A SERIOUS EMERGENCY is considered one of the following:
A NON-EMERGENCY is considered anything else, including but not limited to:
If your foster pet is ill or you have an emergency, please call the shelter at 973-386-0590 between 8 am and 4 pm daily. General questions or non-emergent matters can be emailed to:
For after-hours emergencies, the shelter is affiliated with the following:
Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG)
https:/veterinaryemergencygroup
201-436-1712
and
Animal Emergency and Referal Associates (AERA)
https:/animalerc.com
973-788-0500
For more information, please contact our Foster Coordinator at (973) 386-0590.
To apply to become a foster, please complete our online application.
We will contact you within 7 days of receipt of your application.