Foster family
What is a foster family?
Fostering means taking in an adult cat or kitten(s) until they are adopted, with no fixed timeframe. You can choose to foster one or more cats at once.
As a foster family, you agree to supply food, litter and accessories (e.g. litter box, bowls, toys, etc.) needed for the cat. Veterinary expenses are fully covered by the Animal Rescue Network (ARN). If you have access to a vehicle, we will request your help in taking the the cat(s) to their veterinary appointment(s). Otherwise, volunteers with vehicles can provide transportation to the vet.
The types of cats available for fostering are:
- Pregnant females
- Females with unweaned kittens
- Kittens under 6 months
- Adult cats with special needs
- Adult cats nearing the end of life
Our team of volunteers will support you in your fostering experience, offering you guidance to ensure the experience is as seamless as possible. Our shelter also works in collaboration with FelineGood (FelineGood | FelineGood.ca), which provides free assistance if the cat you’re fostering needs behavioral help.
What are the benefits of fostering?
By becoming a foster family, you’ll make a difference in the lives of stray cats who would otherwise struggle as strays. Additionally, you can enjoy having a cat in your home temporarily without the long-term commitment of adoption.
You’ll also be welcoming a cat into your family, allowing them to thrive in a healthy setting. Their chances of being adopted will increase, as animal socialized to people are more adoptable.
It’s also a cost-effective option as you only have to cover the cost of food and litter while providing the necessary care and attention.
You can help us rescue cats from emergency situations by taking them into your home.
Help us by making a donation!
What are the obligations of a foster family?
As a foster family, you are required to:
- Keep the cat indoors and never allow them outside.
- Notify the ARN immediately if the cat escapes
- Immediately contact a member of the ARN if the cat requires veterinary care.
- Use a safe carrier when transporting the cat to or from your home.
- Update the ARN with your new contact information if it changes while caring for the cat
- Contact an ARN volunteer if you encounter any behavioral issues.
- Notify the ARN if you are no longer able to care for the cat currently in your home.
- Be available and open to potential adopters interested in your cat.
To become a foster family, please fill out our foster family form.
If you need any further information, please contact the ARN foster team by e-mailing arnfostercare@gmail.com
