Foster

Foster families expand AWLA’s ability to care for animals beyond the walls of the shelter by giving pets a warm, loving environment to heal, grow, and flourish.

Foster FAQs

What is animal fostering?

Why should I foster a shelter animal?

How long are animals fostered for?

Foster commitments range from two weeks to several months, so you can choose foster options that fit your lifestyle. We may ask that animals be actively promoted for adoption from the foster home. The sooner your foster animal is adopted, the sooner you can (hopefully) bring a new foster pet into your home, giving us one more available kennel at the shelter to help other animals in need.

Do I need to have any special training or skills to be a foster?

Will AWLA provide the items I need to care for the animal?

What are the requirements?

Foster caregivers must be 18 years of age or older.
Willingness to abide by all policies and procedures in our foster manual and in the foster care contract you sign when you pick up your foster animal. You will receive a copy of the contract each time you foster.
If you rent your home, you must have permission from the property manager/landlord to house animals.
Have regular access to email and respond promptly to email and phone communication.
Be able to provide or arrange a transportation plan for your foster animal(s) to and from AWLA.
Follow instructions from AWLA staff regarding medical and behavioral needs
Have proof of up-to-date vaccinations for all resident animals. Rabies vaccinations are required. (DA2PP, FVRCP, Bordetella, etc as appropriate)
Understand that your foster animal is under the custody of AWLA. Foster caregiver input is welcomed and will always be taken into consideration; however, AWLA staff members are the primary decision makers regarding the health and well-being of our animals.

What types of animals need foster care?

Interested in opening your home (and your heart) to a shelter pet? Sign up to become an AWLA foster today!

Cat & Kitten Foster Sign-Up

Dog Foster Sign-Up

Small Animal Foster Sign-Up

AWLA's Kitten College

AWLA is proud to be the birthplace of innovative foster care practices that are now saving kittens across the country. Originally founded as both a lifesaving kitten foster program and an educational initiative, the Kitten College grew to mentor organizations nationwide, offering webinars, guidance, and resources to expand kitten care efforts. As of January 1, the educational and outreach components of this work are continuing independently under the National Kitten College, a nonprofit organization inspired by AWLA’s groundbreaking work.

While the training and mentorship efforts have spun off into a new entity, AWLA’s commitment to kitten foster care is stronger than ever. The AWLA Kitten College now focuses exclusively on its foster program, a vital network of dedicated volunteers who care for kittens ranging from newborn bottle babies to playful, self-feeding youngsters. With supplies, training, and 24/7 support provided by AWLA staff, fosters of all skill levels can make a difference in a kitten’s life.

Thanks to the incredible dedication of our foster families and staff, AWLA’s Kitten College is a lifesaving force for kittens in need. Whether you’re ready to foster your first kitten or you’re a seasoned pro, there’s a place for you in our foster program.