The MSPCA Foster Care Program is a life-saving extension of our adoption centers.
Fostering is a personal and wonderful way to contribute to saving the life of a homeless animal. We currently have a wonderful network of over 200 foster families who manage animals within their homes with a wide variety of needs. We are always looking to add new foster families to our program to help us better meet the needs of the animals in our care. On occasion, some of our foster opportunities may be full but as our needs change, they do open up.
How Do I Become an MSPCA Foster Parent?
Please look at the below types of animals that currently need fostering. If you are interested in fostering animals in one of these categories, please click on the link to review the full description of the foster opportunity and fill out an application.
Positions Available
Small Animal Foster Caregiver
Cat Foster Caregiver
Dog Foster Caregiver
Commonly Asked Questions about our Foster Program
How Much Time Will it Take?
The time required to foster varies depending on the species and the reason for foster. The foster period can be as little as two weeks or as long as many months depending on the needs of the particular animal. For some of our foster animals, we may ask the foster caregiver to keep their foster pet until he/she is adopted.
What are the Requirements for Foster Parents
If you rent your current apartment, we recommend you gain permission from your landlord or rental company or check your apartments pet policy before you foster. Foster families will need to dedicate the time to make frequent visits to the adoption centers if, and when needed. For this reason, all foster parents should be within a reasonable commuting distance to the MSPCA and have a reliable mode of transportation.
Those interested in becoming a foster parent should also be aware that you may be asked to travel to a shelter location other than the one closest to you to pick up and/or return your foster animal or in the event of an emergency.
For Boston Residents: Please note that we are reachable via public transportation, but keep in mind there may be times when a cab or uber may be needed if emergency visits are required.
Is Fostering Right For You?
Fostering is an incredibly rewarding experience that requires a real commitment. The emotional aspects of fostering are difficult and should be discussed with all family members. It is easy to fall in love with any animal especially one that has depended on you. Oftentimes it can be difficult to see them leave your home for their new forever home. The wonderful part of fostering is knowing that you played a tremendous and extremely crucial role in getting them there!
What Does the MSPCA Provide for a Foster Animal?
We will provide you with all the supplies needed: Food, bowls, leash, collar, medication and litter are all provided by the MSPCA. We’ll send anything the animal is attached to, such as a bed or special toys. Our vet staff will care for the animal if the need for medical attention arises, and we will incur those costs. Foster animals are not to be brought to your family veterinarian or another MSPCA veterinarian without prior approval from our staff.
For more information on our Foster Care Program, please email foster@mspca.org or call the Foster Care Program Manager at 978-224-7238.
Want to help us support our awesome volunteer foster families?
Consider making a donation to help support our foster and adoption center animals. We also have an Amazon Wish List organized with all of the things needed the most. Thank you for your support!
Already an active foster? Click here to view our foster care resources.
Feline Foster Resources
Dog Foster Resources
Small Animal Foster Resources (under construction)
