Byrd's Eye View

I have limited experience with this subject, so I hope that others who have taken on the fostering of a pet will contribute to this discussion.

Some of you have asked about the responsibilities of being a foster parent to a rescued animal.  It is one of the most rewarding tasks for an animal lover and volunteers are badly needed these days.

Here are some things to consider.  I'm the first to admit that I've learned some of these things by failing to do them well:

• You are caring for someone else's pet.  It is important to treat your foster as you would your own, but still be able to say, "goodbye" when the pet is adopted.  This is the most obvious and most difficult part of the job.  Sometimes it helps to think about how letting one pet go makes room for another pet in need.

• You are preparing your foster pet for someone else's home.  Sometimes (though not all the time) a foster pet has special needs:   a young dog who needs house-training and basic obedience training; a kitten who needs to be socialized; an animal who needs to be taught how to get along with other pets in the home; or an older pet who has special health needs.  As a foster parent, you must make sure that the pet has a safe, happy transition to their forever home.  This takes time and you should be willing to make the investment.

• You will have to provide all supplies.  Food, toys, treats and shelter are the responsibility of the foster parent.  Foster parents of cats will have to provide litter and litter boxes.  These are expenses that you will have to factor in to the experience.  Some rescue organizations will loan you a kennel, perhaps a leash and most will cover medical care.  Keep your receipts and consult a tax preparation professional to determine how much may be tax deductible, if you wish.

• Keep your foster pet clean and healthy.  Your foster pet may need medication and grooming.  Nail trimming, baths, ear cleaning, flea treatment and heartworm preventative are part of being a good owner and a good foster parent. 

• Help find a home!  Being a successful foster parent means having a hand in the "marketing" of that pet.  You will be expected to come to adoption fairs and spread the word about your foster's availability for adoption.  Most rescues have websites so that animals in the program will have pictures and descriptions posted.  It's always helpful if the foster parent provides up-to-date photos.

• You may have your foster pet for awhile.  Adoption rates go up and down seasonally.  Many people want a puppy or kitten and overlook some super adult animals.  With dogs, large breeds are slower to be adopted than small breeds.  It is often difficult to find homes for animals with black or brown coats .

Most of our Pet of the Week groups use foster parents and they are in need of volunteers.  It's a big responsibility, but if you're willing to take it on, there is no greater job. 

Here are some other ways to help with local rescues if you can't be a foster parent.

• Donate money
• Spay and neuter your family pet
• Adopt from your local shelter or animal rescue
• Consider volunteering for other duties (there are lots of needs you can fill)