Heartland Humane Society of Missouri

A Foster Based Animal Rescue Group

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Become a Heartland Humane Society Foster

If you are interested in finding out more about fostering for Heartland Humane Society, please fill out the online application below.

In order to be considered for a foster parent you must:
  • Be at least 23 years of age
  • Must be the primary head of household
  • Have a landlord's name and phone number if you rent

Fostering FAQ:

What is a pet foster parent?

  • A pet foster parent provides temporary, in-home care for friendly puppies, kittens, dogs or cats until they are adopted.  In addition to affection, the foster parent provides basic care for the animals such as food, water, and shelter.  The pet foster parent is expected to take the pet to adoption events at least twice a month (held at PetSmart in O’Fallon, MO).
Why are they needed?
  • We can only rescue as many animals as we have room and volunteers for.  Local animal shelters euthanize dozens of healthy and friendly animals each day to make space for the new ones coming in due to limited holding space.  Animal rescue groups have to turn away many adoptable animals each week because they lack foster parents.  Not only do foster parents maximize the number of animals rescued, they also help to care for animals that would be difficult to care for in a shelter or kennel environment:  puppies and kittens with immune systems not strong enough to fight germs, orphaned or feral kittens, animals recovering from major surgery, or dogs needing one-on-one behavior rehabilitation or a break from the shelter.  Foster parents often make the difference between life and death for an animal!

How long is a foster period?

  • The length of fostering can vary from a few days to several months.  Volunteers are needed for short-term emergency fosters that may last a day or two, while other volunteers may choose to foster special needs pets or other pets who will take longer to find a forever home.  Each volunteer is allowed to choose which cat/dog they will foster and will be advised of the amount of time that may be required before that animal finds a home. 

What does it cost to foster a pet?

  • All veterinary care is paid by our rescue group.  In addition, cat/kitten or dog/puppy food is provided for the foster home at no cost.  Foster homes are responsible for supplying their own toys, litter, bedding, and transportation to and from adoption events. 

Are there requirements that people should be aware of before becoming pet foster parents? 

  • Different pets will have different requirements.  Some dogs need a fenced yard, while others do not.  Many cats enjoy the company of other cats while others prefer to be the only pet.  Because each pet’s personality is different, we do our best to match them to the best possible foster home to suit the animal and the family’s needs.  So, if a foster family has young children, then only animals that do well with young children are placed there.  The main requirements for people who want to foster is that they be willing to provide a loving, safe environment for the animal. 

 

Foster application

Do you work or attend school?
Do you live in a:
Do you own or rent (if rent, please supply landlor information)?
Choose the option that best describes your household:
Does everyone in your household know and accept the fact that you are considering fostering a pet?
If fostering a dog, please indicate what size you prefer:
Do you prefer to foster puppies or adult dogs?
If fostering cats, please indicate which age you prefer: