Welcome to our Foster Program!
🐾 Become a Lifesaver:
Fostering is one of the most direct ways you can make a difference in an animal's life. Whether it's caring for tiny, vulnerable kittens or giving a stressed dog a break from shelter life, your role as a foster parent is invaluable. Our foster program is designed to match your lifestyle and capabilities with the needs of our animals. From intensive care for newborn kittens to short-term stays for dogs, every act of fostering is a step towards saving a life and helping an animal find their forever home.
At DCAS, we're looking for compassionate, dedicated individuals who are ready to open their hearts and homes to animals in need. No matter your experience level, there's a place for you in our foster community. Read on to find out more about our different fostering opportunities and how you can join this life-changing mission.
Kitten Foster Program
🍼 Bottle Baby Fosters
(0-4 Weeks)
For those tiny, vulnerable lives, our Bottle Baby Program is a critical lifeline. These newborn kittens require round-the-clock care, including bottle feeding every 2-3 hours, stimulating them to help with elimination, and keeping them warm and clean.
😺 Older Kitten Fosters
(5-8 Weeks)
As kittens grow, their needs shift towards socialization and exploration. Foster homes for kittens aged 5-8 weeks play a crucial role in their development, providing them with a nurturing environment away from the confines of a shelter.
What We Provide:
Kitten formula and bottles.
Blankets and baby wipes.
Heat disks or warming pads.
Limited availability of an incubator (we are looking to expand this resource).
Ideal Foster Parent:
Experienced in caring for newborn kittens.
Willing to provide intensive care, including overnight feedings.
Interested in learning? Check out our Kitten Resources Page for guidance and tips.
What We Provide:
Litterbox & Litter
Kitten Wet & Dry Food
Cat Toys, Puppy Pads and Blankets
Play Pen
Focus on Socialization:
Providing a safe, interactive space for play and exploration.
Teaching litter box habits and basic social skills.
Fostering 2-3 kittens together is ideal, allowing them to learn from and engage with each other.
Transition to Adoption:
At 8 weeks, kittens transition to foster-to-adopt homes where they stay until reaching the minimum weight (4lbs) for spay/neuter surgery. While families can opt to have the surgery done independently, we are unable to offer financial support for this. Once the procedure is completed, we finalize the adoption process.
Join Our Foster Team:
Are you ready to make a huge difference in the lives of these little ones? Whether you’re a seasoned foster or eager to learn, your contribution is invaluable. Click below to fill out our foster questionnaire and start your journey as a kitten foster parent.
🐕 Long-Term Dog Fosters
Long-term fostering is a deeply rewarding opportunity that makes a significant impact on the lives of dogs in need. This program is perfect for those who can offer a nurturing environment for extended periods, catering to dogs with diverse needs.
Opportunities Include:
Long-Term Shelter Residents: Providing a home for dogs who are not thriving in the shelter environment, helping them decompress and enjoy a more normal life.
Behavioral Training: Fostering dogs with minor behavioral issues (like poor leash skills or over-excitement) to provide basic training and establish boundaries.
Hospice Care for Seniors: Offering a loving, comfortable space for senior dogs with chronic health conditions.
Moms with Puppies: A more intensive role that involves caring for mothers and their puppies, focusing on socialization, beginning house training, and exposure to various stimuli.
What We’re Looking For in a Foster:
The ability to dedicate time and attention to the dog’s care and training.
Adequate space to safely introduce and integrate the dog into your home, especially during the initial adjustment period.
Willingness to actively promote the dog for adoption. This includes sharing updates, photos, and progress with our team for social media content, and participating in adoption events either by dropping off the dog or attending with them.
Support From Us:
We provide all necessary supplies, guidance, and support for the care of your foster dog. Our team is always available to answer questions and offer assistance throughout your fostering journey.
Make a Difference:
As a long-term foster, you play a crucial role in preparing these dogs for their forever homes. Your commitment and care can transform their lives, giving them the best chance at a happy future.
Interested in becoming a long-term dog foster? Click below to learn more and start the application process.