Foster Program

The Spokane Humane Society relies heavily on its foster parents
to help save thousands of lives!

An animal may be entered into the foster program if it needs rehabilitation prior to being made available for adoption. Many of the animals in need of a foster home are puppies and kittens too young to be adopted.

Animals considered rehabilitatable or with manageable conditions due to minor illnesses, malnutrition, and some behavior problems receive a second chance through the program.

If you are interested in becoming a foster parent please print and fill out the packet and return it to the Spokane Humane Society. Foster Parent Application

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about our foster care program:

Q: What sort of supplies will I need to purchase?
A: None! SHS provides all the necessary materials for foster parents. This can included food, dishes, litter pans, leashes/collars, litter, formula, medical care.

Q: I have animals of my own, will that be a problem?
A: Not typically. We do suggest that foster parents keep foster animals separated from other pets at home. This prevents any illness the foster animal might be carrying from being transmitted to your animals at home. Bathrooms make wonderful foster rooms because they aren’t too large and are easy to clean!

Q: Are their any special requirements to become a foster parent?
A: Foster parents must complete a foster parent application and agree to the foster parent terms of agreement. Foster parents must also complete a Washington State Patrol background check form.

Q: How long does it take?
A: Fostering can be a big time commitment. It can take anywhere from one week to 3 – 4 months before and animal can be adoption ready.

Q: Once I filled out my application, how do I get started?
A: We are always in need of foster animals so don’t be surprised if you turn in your application and leave with a kitten to foster! Foster parents are kept on file and contacted by telephone when a foster case that fits their requirements arises. Typically we contact many foster parents each time we need foster, so the first willing foster parent to reach us will be given the foster animal. Don’t worry though; there are plenty of animals in need of fostering!

Q: What types of animals need foster care?
A: We have many different types of animals that may need foster care:
Underage animals – any puppy or kitten under the age of 8 weeks will need foster care. These foster cases can range for one day old babies that need bottle feeding to 6 week old kiddos who just need a safe space to romp, play and be loved until they are old enough to be adopted.

Pregnant animals – Pregnant dogs or cats will need quite, clean and comfortable spaces to have and raise their young in.

Out & About Dogs – The Out & About program helps us to provide foster homes for our dogs. To learn more about this program read the Out & About Program Information. To learn about the types of dogs in need please read the Out & About Dog Criteria.