Open your home.
Change a life.
Fostering gives a dog or cat a safe, loving place to stay while they wait for a permanent family. You provide the home and daily care. We support you along the way.
Your home can be their bridge to a better future.
Every foster placement creates room to help another animal and gives adopters a clearer picture of the pet they may welcome home.
Save a life
Give an animal a comfortable place to recover, grow, and prepare for adoption.
Provide a real home
Help a pet experience normal family life, daily routines, attention, and companionship.
Help find the right match
Your knowledge of the animal's personality and needs helps us identify a compatible adopter.
Four simple steps
Contact us
Tell us about your household, schedule, experience, and the type of pet you may be comfortable fostering.
Find a good fit
We work with you to identify an animal whose needs fit your home and circumstances.
Welcome them home
Provide a safe space, daily care, patience, and observations that help us understand the pet.
Help them get adopted
Share updates and photographs and help prospective adopters learn what makes your foster special.
Fostering is flexible and supported.
Each animal and foster placement is different. Before placing an animal, we will discuss the pet's known needs and make sure you are comfortable moving forward.
- A safe indoor space appropriate for the animal
- Time for feeding, attention, exercise, and basic care
- Willingness to share updates and photographs
- Transportation or coordination for appointments and meetings
- Patience while the animal adjusts to a new environment
- Communication if concerns or unexpected issues arise
Already have pets? That does not automatically prevent you from fostering. We will discuss personalities, separation options, and safe introductions before placement.
Questions about fostering
How long will I foster an animal?
The length of a foster placement varies. It may depend on the animal's age, health, adjustment, and how quickly a suitable adopter is found. We will share what is known before you accept a placement.
Can I foster if I already have pets?
Often, yes. Compatibility, vaccination status, household setup, and the ability to separate animals when necessary should all be considered before placement.
What supplies will I need?
Needs vary by animal. Typical items include food and water bowls, bedding, a leash or carrier, toys, litter supplies for cats, and a secure area where the foster pet can settle in.
What if the animal is not a good fit for my home?
Contact Columbus Humane Society promptly. Clear communication helps us protect the animal, your household, and any resident pets while another arrangement is considered.
Can I adopt my foster pet?
If you believe your foster pet belongs permanently with your family, contact us as early as possible so the adoption process and current inquiries can be discussed.
What if I need help during the foster placement?
Please reach out. Foster families should communicate changes in behavior, health concerns, scheduling issues, or anything else that may affect the animal's care.
Give an animal the safe place they need.
Contact Columbus Humane Society to ask questions and learn about current foster needs.