Foster Care

About Our Foster Program

Fostering saves lives. By opening your home to a pet in need, you give them a safe and loving space to grow, heal, and prepare for adoption. Whether fostering a newborn kitten, a senior dog, or an animal recovering from surgery, fostering provides the bridge to their forever home and makes a life-changing difference for the animals in our care.

How do I become a foster?

Please look at the types of animals available for fostering below, and read the full description for the opportunity. Then fill out the foster application, and our foster coordinator will reach out to you as soon as possible.

What are the requirements for a foster home?

The state of NH requires us to do a yearly inspection of each foster home. For this reason, fosters must be within a reasonable distance of the shelter (typically 30 minutes or less). You will need to be able to transport your foster animal to and from the shelter. Additionally, no foster animal may leave the state of NH at any time. If you need to go on vacation, arrangements will be made for the animal to go to another foster or come back to the shelter.

If you rent, it is important that you receive permission from your landlord or rental company.

Is fostering right for me?

Fostering is a rewarding, but emotionally challenging experience. It can be very bittersweet when the time comes for your foster to be adopted! It can also be stressful when fostering medical cases, which require special care. Therefore, it is important that you have a conversation with your whole family to ensure everyone is on board.

It is also important to consider the emotional and physical health of any resident pets. If your own animal would be highly stressed by a foster, or is especially susceptible to illness, we would be happy to have your help in another role!

What does ARLNH provide?

We provide everything you need to care for your foster pet, including: food, bedding, bowls, toys, litter, leashes/collars, and medications. Our veterinary team will provide all medical care. Foster animals should not be brought to your family vet, or any other clinic without prior approval from ARLNH.