Foster Care Program
Save Lives, Become a Foster Parent

Our Foster Care Program encourages community members to open their homes to animals in need. By offering temporary shelter, even for a short time, you can help save the lives of animals waiting for their forever homes. Fostering is one of the most impactful ways you can contribute to the welfare of Marion County’s animals.

Eligibility & Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years old (parents must apply for minors under 18).
• Have a separate room or space to keep foster animals away from personal pets.

Using Foster Hours as Volunteer Hours: If you want to use your foster hours as volunteer hours, please notify your volunteer coordinator at [email protected]

How to Become a Foster:

1. Complete the Application:
   Fill out the foster application either in person at the shelter or online.

2. Review the Agreement:
   Carefully read the agreement attached to the application.

3. Speak with a Care Coordinator:
   After approval, we will contact you (within 72 hours) to discuss your interests and needs.

4. Review the Handbook:
   Familiarize yourself with all guidelines and expectations in the foster handbook.

Fostering is subject to approval by HSMC and can be limited at our discretion.

Qualifications and Requirements for Foster Parents:

• Must be at least 18 years old (or have a parent/guardian to sign for you).
• Willing to read and understand all related paperwork.
• Able to provide proof that your landlord allows pets (if applicable).
• Must have knowledge or be willing to learn about animal care and behavior.
• Must provide essential needs: food, shelter, exercise, affection, and ensure health and safety.
• Must be willing to follow specific medical instructions and maintain health records for foster animals.
• Must be willing to transport animals to the shelter for medical care if needed.
• If you have personal pets, they must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and up-to-date on heartworm and flea prevention.
• Fosters must have independent veterinary care for their pets.
• Must be willing to communicate effectively with HSMC staff and follow all policies.

What to Expect: While fostering, it is important to remember that not all animals may survive, but your role is crucial in their rehabilitation. You will be given a specific outcome plan for each animal, which you must follow closely. Fosters must also respect all HSMC policies and agreements.

Possible Reasons for Disqualification:

• Failure to meet eligibility or maintain qualifications.
• History of not fulfilling foster responsibilities or disregarding policies.
• Refusing to return an animal when required or releasing it to someone else without approval.
• History of animal negligence or cruelty.
• Behavior that is abusive or disruptive toward staff or at HSMC events.