FOSTER CARE PROGRAM
We are having an influx of kittens and puppies coming into the shelter. This week more kittens came in than cats- 20 in one day! We are in desperate need of foster homes for kittens and puppies.
Please contact the shelter at 803-642-1537, email info@fotasaiken.org
Please contact the shelter at 803-642-1537, email info@fotasaiken.org
Aiken County Animal Shelter is desperately seeking qualified short term foster homes!
Aiken County Animal Shelter is always in need of foster homes for 5 to 10 days. The more foster homes we have, the more lives we can save. As a foster care volunteer, you will save 2 lives and have a short pet companion without the permanent commitment.
Why are foster parents needed?
FOTAS has a network of shelters and rescue groups willing and able to quickly find homes for many of our highly adoptable animals that come into the Aiken County Shelter. While awaiting transport a foster home frees up an adoption kennel for another dog waiting in the wings for their forever home.
Fostering is a very rewarding experience for everyone involved. The animals get to transition to their new home easily without having to continue to stay in a shelter environment. There is no pressure on the foster parent to adopt the animal, knowing it is about to go to a new home!
Except for fostering litters of puppies, our biggest need is for short term foster care for animals destined for transport. The stay is usually 5 to 10 days and the dog is guaranteed to have a new home after they leave you.
Foster care is one of the most rewarding ways to help homeless pets. Providing a "stepping stone" for animals in destined for permanent homes saves lives, and alleviates the immediate strain on our animal shelter.
Can I keep the pet I foster if I want to?
Often you are able to keep a foster pet if you decide it is the one for you. However, as stated previously, it is not expected.
“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.”
― Josh Billings
― Josh Billings
What is Long term Foster Care?
Puppy fostering lasts until the puppies are 12 weeks old, when they have had their last set of required shots. A litter of puppies requires a little more work, but is always rewarding! Sometimes the puppies are not yet weaned so initially, the mother will also come to you with her pups.
The program will place a pet based on need, temperament, and matched to your abilities.
Letting go?
It may be difficult for you to let them go but keep this in mind: Puppies are highly desired by
local residents and our Northern partners. Your foster environment has kept them healthy,
happy and ready for their transition to their new home.
local residents and our Northern partners. Your foster environment has kept them healthy,
happy and ready for their transition to their new home.
I already own a dog and a cat. Can I still foster?
Foster pets may be allowed to interact with your own pets. Before you bring a foster animal
home, consult with your veterinarian to make sure your own pets are up-to-date on their
vaccinations. You may wish to ask your veterinarian if your pets need any additional
vaccinations.
home, consult with your veterinarian to make sure your own pets are up-to-date on their
vaccinations. You may wish to ask your veterinarian if your pets need any additional
vaccinations.
To become a foster parent for dogs or cats, please contact us or fill out this Foster Care Form and fax to us at: 803-643-4006. After your form is received, you will be contacted for a site evaluation from one of the Animal Control officers, just to assure that the animal will be in a safe environment.
Once the site evaluation is completed and you are approved, you are one of our official foster homes. You may pick up your animal(s) at the Aiken County Shelter for either short term (5 to 10 days) or longer term puppy litter foster care situation, up to 12 weeks.
Again, short term care is often needed for 5-10 days while dogs are awaiting transport to new homes or no kill shelters. Longer term care, especially for puppies and kittens, will help keep them healthy and socialized until an adoption cage or opportunity opens up.
Once the site evaluation is completed and you are approved, you are one of our official foster homes. You may pick up your animal(s) at the Aiken County Shelter for either short term (5 to 10 days) or longer term puppy litter foster care situation, up to 12 weeks.
Again, short term care is often needed for 5-10 days while dogs are awaiting transport to new homes or no kill shelters. Longer term care, especially for puppies and kittens, will help keep them healthy and socialized until an adoption cage or opportunity opens up.
We could save so many more cats and dogs if we had YOUR help.
