Fostering FAQ'S
Answers to Questions You May Have
Can foster parents adopt their foster pets?
Yes! As long as foster parents meet the requirements that are necessary for adopting, foster parents have the first choice to adopt their foster pets, unless otherwise specified.
Are foster animals contagious? Will my pets or my health be jeopardized?
It is always a health risk to expose your animal to other animals, whether at the off-leash areas, the vet waiting room or other common animal areas. If your pets are current on their vaccinations, maintain healthy diets and lifestyles, and are not immune compromised, then the health risk should be minimal.
If someone in your household is immune compromised, consult the doctor before fostering. If you are pregnant (or someone in your house is) or plan to become pregnant, talk to your doctor before fostering cats. You may need to take some special precautions during your pregnancy.
Are purchases made for foster care tax-deductible?
Purchases made for foster care may be considered donations to the shelter and would be tax-deductible. Please check with your shelter or rescue group regarding their tax-deductible status. If the organization is a non-profit, keep your receipts.
What do I do if my foster animal needs veterinary care?
It’s always best to speak with us about how to handle medical emergencies, as we have a preferred way of managing crisis, require notification prior to treatment and have a preferred veterinarian. We’ve included some rough guidelines below, but it’s always best to sketch out a plan ahead of time with your foster contact.
If you have an emergency during business hours, please call the us If something happens after hours:
- Restrain the animal to prevent it from hurting itself or anyone in the area.
- Evaluate the situation and need for assistance.
- Is the animal’s life in imminent danger? Is the animal’s airway obstructed or is the animal having trouble breathing? Does the animal have any broken bones or open wounds?
- Call for emergency clearance.
- Get the animal in to see the vet immediately.
- Is the animal running a fever of 104oF. or greater?
- Call for emergency clearance.
- Get the animal in to see the vet immediately.
- Look at the animal’s gums. Are they white or healthy pink? Is the animal eating or drinking?
- Is the animal able to urinate and defecate? Look at the animal’s stool. Is there blood in the feces or urine? Are there obvious parasites present?
- Is the animal’s life in imminent danger? Is the animal’s airway obstructed or is the animal having trouble breathing? Does the animal have any broken bones or open wounds?
- If emergency medical attention is needed, or if you are uncertain, call for emergency clearance. Have the animal’s name, pet number and any information about the situation available so the we can advise you of the appropriate steps.
- Once you are cleared to go to the emergency veterinary clinic, a FOCCAS representative will contact office and let them know that you are coming.
ALWAYS check with us before making an appointment with a veterinary clinic. Without proper clearance, FOCCAS cannot reimburse you for any medical costs.
Can I name my foster pet?
Your foster pet may already have a name given by FOCCAS or his or her previous owners. Please keep the same name! The pet may already know his or her name, all the paperwork will be completed under that name and the animal will be listed on our Web site with that name. We want to avoid any confusion among our team members, foster families, potential adopters and the animal. If you choose to adopt your foster pet, you are free to change the name at that point in time.
