Fostering an animal is the single most important thing that you can do to save the lives of the thousands of animals that the City of Chicago rescues. Our foster program is in place to get animals out of a cage in the city’s shelter and into a warm, loving home while waiting for adoption. Simply put, we save the lives of dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens who do not stand a chance of survival in a high-stress shelter environment. Our program focuses on the animals that are the most vulnerable and the time commitment varies. Some animals require a little bit of TLC and veterinary care, while others may need a place to recover for a few weeks.
We are always looking for individuals or families who can provide a loving home environment for these animals. Let us know what kind of a commitment you can make, and we can match you with the right foster animal. When you open up your home to these wonderful animals you will see gratitude and hope in their eyes. Fostering for FCACC lets a shelter animal know that life can be filled with food, care, and love.
To apply to foster, please complete our FCACC Foster Application.
Please email adopt@fcacc.org with any questions about fostering.
FAQs
Q: Who can foster?
A: You must be 21 years of age with a passion for animals and have the approval of all household members. If renting, your landlord or condo association must allow pets.
Q: What does FCACC provide to foster parents?
A: FCACC provides food, cat litter, and covers all medical costs. We also provide support and counseling from the program coordinator and our network of experienced foster caregivers.
Q: How long is the average foster stay?
A: The amount of time required to foster an animal can vary depending on the animal’s individual needs. Typically, fostering an animal can range from a few weeks to several months. Foster caregivers will be expected to care for a pet until the time of adoption or placement in a satellite adoption location, unless otherwise arranged at the beginning of the foster agreement for that pet.
Q: How will my foster animal be adopted?
A: FCACC will find potential adopters for your foster animal. You may be asked to bring your foster animal to adoption events and/or have meet-and-greets for potential adopters in your home.
Q: Do I get to choose my foster animal?
A: You will have input into the type of animal you would like to foster, such as a specific breed or age range. FCACC, however, may assign you an animal based on its needs and your experience and suitability as a foster parent.
Q: Can I foster if I have other pets?
A: Yes. Any pets in your home must, however, be healthy, current on vaccinations, and spayed or neutered.
Q: What kind of care should I expect to provide for my foster animal?
A: Foster families provide quality food, water, shelter, and kind treatment, and administer medication, as warranted.
Q: What if I want to adopt my foster pet(s)?
A: If you are interested in adopting an animal you have fostered, you must get approval from FCACC and abide by the rules and regulations of the organization regarding adoptions.