The Haven’s Foster Care Program

Many of the animals surrendered to The Haven-Friends for Life are not adoptable when they first arrive.  They may be puppies or kittens too young for adoption, they may be undergoing medical care or recovering from surgery or they may need therapeutic socialization.  The Foster Care Program allows these animals to receive the one-on-one attention and care they need until such time as the animal is ready for adoption.

The Haven often gets in very young puppies or kittens, alone or in litters, with or without their mothers.  Young animals require a quiet, stress-free environment in which to gain strength and weight while learning important socialization skills.  Moms need a stress-free place in which to do what they do best - raise a healthy, well-adjusted litter. The Haven seeks to provide the best possible environment for these vulnerable animals through its Foster Care Program by partnering with people who can open their home for a short period of time, usually ranging from 1 to 6 weeks.

The need for foster homes is especially great during the summer/spring kitten season, when pregnant cats and mothers with litters of kittens are brought to our shelter.  Until the kittens are old enough to be weaned and separated from their mother, these kittens cannot be put up for adoption.

WHO MAY FOSTER AN ANIMAL?

Anyone over 21 years of age may apply to foster.  However we require that you know how to properly care for the animal(s) placed in your charge. 

THE FOSTER HOME’S RESPONSIBILITIES

The Haven expects all animals held in foster homes will be welcomed as a member of the family.  Foster care givers must be able to provide a clean safe environment in which to care for the animal to prevent injury and spread of disease.  Any necessary medications are provided by The Haven.  Other items, such as food, cat litter or toys are the financial responsibility of the foster parent; however, all expenses incurred by the foster home on behalf of the foster animal are tax-deductible.

You will be provided an emergency contact number for The Haven’s director in the event that the animal in your care becomes ill. You must contact The Haven director immediately.   Any medical expenses not pre-approved by The Haven will be the responsibility of the foster parent.

THE HAVEN’S RESPONSIBILITIES

The Haven will hold orientation/training sessions to review foster care program expectations, distribute pertinent materials and answer questions.  Haven staff members or other volunteers may periodically perform home visits to address any questions or concerns of the foster home, at foster care giver’s request.  At the end of the foster period, shelter staff will examine the animal’s health, administer any further vaccinations necessary and the animal will be made available for adoption.

ADOPTION

If the foster care family prefers, they may choose to adopt the foster animal themselves.  If you know of someone interested in adopting your foster animal, simply refer them to The Haven so that they may complete an adoption application.  Those foster animals not adopted by either you or someone you refer will attend a PetSmart weekend adoption event.

For questions or comments, please email us thehavennc@gmail.com or call The Haven at (910) 875-6768.