Is Fostering for me?

New to fostering? Have questions? Don't worry -- you're not in this alone! As an HDBnQ foster, you'll have access to our Foster Line to connect with and ask questions to our lead volunteers.

FOSTERING SAVES LIVES:

Often, rescue organizations without a brick n mortar heavily depend on foster homes to determine their capacity for rescuing dogs and cats from county shelters. These animals may include long-term residents or those at risk of euthanasia due to overcrowding. Additionally, rescues rely on fosters to provide a change of environment for long-term residents or animals struggling to adapt to a kennel atmosphere. Fosters play a crucial role in enabling rescues to assist pregnant female pets by offering them a quiet and comfortable environment to deliver babies and care for them during the critical early weeks of development.

YOU HAVE A HAND IN HELPING MAKE THE DOG MORE "ADOPTABLE":

Some dogs and cats may not present themselves well in a kennel environment due to excess energy or the competition for attention as potential adopters pass by. By fostering a dog or cat, you can provide exercise and stimulation, leading to a calmer demeanor that more closely reflects their behavior in a home environment. Additionally, you can work with the animal on leash training, litter box training (for cats), and other basic commands, making them more appealing to potential adopters searching for the perfect addition to their family.

YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO CHANGE A PET'S FUTURE:

Rescues often rely on fosters for animals that have endured a difficult past, such as abuse, cruelty, neglect, or under-socialization. As a foster, you have the chance to earn an animal's trust, introduce them to human touch and love – possibly for the first time – provide a safe environment, and witness their transformation firsthand.

FOSTERING CAN BE GREAT FOR YOUR FAMILY:

If you have other pets, introducing a foster dog or cat can be a wonderful experience for them, offering companionship, socialization, and the chance to have a new playmate. Fostering can also be enriching for children, teaching them responsibility, compassion, and providing valuable lessons about caring for animals.

YOU BECOME PART OF A WONDERFUL "COMMUNITY":

Fosters from our rescue of dogs and cats will support you throughout your fostering journey, offering guidance, sharing ideas, and answering any questions you may have. They may even become your friends! Joining our fostering community allows you to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for helping animals and provides a supportive network to lean on.

YOU WILL MAKE SOMEONE'S FAMILY COMPLETE:

When the day arrives and your foster from our rescue of dogs and cats finds their perfect home, the sense of fulfillment you'll feel is truly special. You'll take pride in knowing the progress and growth you've facilitated during their time with you. Witnessing them embark on their journey with their forever family, experiencing the love and care they deserve, brings immense joy. Though farewells can be bittersweet, the knowledge that another deserving pet will soon benefit from your care and compassion is incredibly rewarding.

HDBnQ Rescue’s Fostering Requirements:

  • Be able to keep your pet separate from any family pets as needed

  • Arrange to pick up supplies from Pacifica, California

  • Bring pet to veterinary appointments and adoption events

  • Provide pictures and basic info in a timely manner about your foster pets’ personalities for their adoption bios

  • Host virtual meet n greets with potential adopters with a lead foster.