FOSTER WITH ANDERSON HUMANE

Open your home.
Change a life.

Foster families give animals the comfort, care and confidence they need while they wait for what comes next.

A little room makes a big difference

More homes mean more lives saved.

Anderson Humane cares for more than 4,000 homeless animals each year. With limited shelter space, we rely on foster families to help care for even more animals in need.

The love you give dogs, cats, puppies, kittens, small mammals and pet birds helps them become happy, healthy and ready for adoption.

Considering adoption?

Foster-to-Adopt

Welcome an eligible animal home while they complete medical, surgical or approved behavioral care—with the opportunity to adopt once they are cleared.

Explore the program

Find your fit

Foster opportunities

Every placement is different. We’ll help you choose an animal and timeline that work for your household.

See which animals currently need a foster home.

Dogs & puppies

A soft place to land.

Care for transported puppies, adult dogs awaiting adoption, or a dog who needs a break from the shelter.

Typical placement
Often two weeks; varies by animal

Apply to foster

Cats & kittens

Help them grow and thrive.

Support kittens during busy kitten season or give an adult cat a quiet place while waiting for adoption.

Great for
Patient homes and kitten-season helpers

Apply to foster

All-Star dogs

Build confidence together.

Help a behavior-program dog practice positive reinforcement and Fear Free skills in a loving home.

Minimum stay
Seven days

Contact the Foster Team

Small animals

Big care for little companions.

Rabbits, hamsters, gerbils and other small pets need temporary homes. Newcomers are welcome.

Experience
Helpful, but training is available

Apply to foster

Pet birds

Specialized care for every size.

Experienced bird people can foster parrots, while smaller birds such as finches and doves also need care.

Supplies
Appropriate caging can be provided

Apply to foster

STAR

Keep pets and people connected.

Provide longer-term temporary care for a pet whose person is navigating crisis, hospitalization or deployment.

Special focus
Regular photos and updates for the pet’s person

Learn about STAR

How it works

Your path to fostering

1. ApplyFill out a foster application form. Tell us about your home, availability and interests.2. Get orientedReview the video and handbook, then connect with our team.3. Meet your matchChoose a placement that works for your household.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a foster placement last?

Placements may last from a few days to a few months. We’ll help match you with an animal whose needs fit your availability.

What supplies does Anderson Humane provide?

We can provide food and necessary supplies for your foster animal. If you are able to cover basic supplies yourself, that support is welcome too.

What support can I expect?

Foster coordinators are available during business hours and for after-hours emergencies. We’ll also check in weekly by email, text or phone.

Do I need to be 18?

The responsible foster must be at least 18. Younger household members are welcome to participate with adult supervision.

Who provides medical care?

Anderson Humane provides the foster animal’s veterinary care. Contact the Foster Team before visiting an outside veterinarian, as unauthorized outside care is not covered.

Can my foster animal meet my pets?

Ask your foster coordinator before introductions. Puppies and kittens must be double vaccinated; fully vaccinated adult animals may be introduced after an initial settling-in period and coordinator approval.