Foster With Us!

Cat staring at camera

Every year, our two Animal Services facilities care for over 7,000 animals. With the increasing number of animals and longer stays in shelters, community support is crucial. Even short breaks away from the shelter environment significantly improve the health and well-being of pets!

Who Needs Foster Care the Most?

  • Medium to large adult dogs needing a break and patience.
  • Puppies and kittens, with or without their mother,
    requiring socialization and support during growth.

Why Foster?

By opening your home, you:

  • Provide a nurturing environment for pets to thrive and form bonds.
  • Reduce stress associated with kennel living.
  • Minimize disease risks, ensuring better health.
  • Offer valuable insights into the pet's behavior in a home setting, aiding in finding them the perfect forever home.

 

What We Provide:

  • Tailored training materials and support catered to your level of experience.
  • Basic care supplies for the species selected (food, leash, harness, litter, carrier, etc.).
  • Medically vetted pets with up-to-date vaccinations.
  • Contacts, emergency resources, and access to a dedicated Foster Facebook page for continuous support.

 

Why Participate in Dog Day Out?

Here are some reasons for taking a dog out of the shelter for the day:

  • Socialization: Helps the dog interact with different environments and people, improving their social skills.
  • Exercise: Provides an opportunity for physical activity, essential for a dog’s health and well-being.
  • Mental Stimulation: New experiences can stimulate a dog’s mind, reducing boredom and stress.
  • Increased Visibility: Promotes the dog for potential adoption by showcasing their personality outside the shelter.
  • Stress Relief: A change of scenery can alleviate the stress of shelter life, leading to a happier, more relaxed dog.
  • Behavior Assessment: Provides insights into the dog’s behavior in a different setting.
  • Learning and Training: Reinforces training commands and good behavior in a real-world setting.
  • Fun and Enrichment: Gives the dog a chance to enjoy new sights, sounds, and experiences.

 

How to Become a Foster Parent or Participate in a Dog Day Out:

1.    Must be at least 18 years old and reside in San Diego County.

2.    Complete the Foster Interest Form.

3.    Submit your application via mail or email to DAS_Placement@sdcounty.ca.gov

4.    Once received, our placement team will email you a copy of the training manual to get you started!

Join us in making a difference in the lives of animals—become a foster parent today!