The KWHS relies on the dedication of Foster Volunteers to aid in the recovery of animals who may not be ready for adoption due to medical or behavioural reasons. Foster volunteers temporarily care for animals in their home until the animals are ready to be adopted. The goal of the Foster Program is to provide the animals in our care with an opportunity for a ‘forever’ home.
All vet costs and supplies including food, litter, medications, examinations, and prescription diets are provided by the KWHS.
Foster Volunteers care for immature, mildly sick or injured animals, and animals in need of socialization. This program is perfect for those who may not be able to commit to an animal for it’s entire life.
Join a Winning Team!
Spring is an exciting time because it symbolizes a fresh start and rebirth, bringing on new life in the form of budding flowers, green grass, and blossoming trees. For those working in Humane Societies, spring implies the arrival of kitten season. It’s the time of year when many Humane Societies across Canada are overflowing with cats and kittens of all colours and sizes, from pregnant cats to tiny orphan kittens. This is in addition to the regular influx of cats, dogs, small mammals, and birds. Finding room for them all and accommodating their needs can be a challenge, especially when a shelter has limited space and resources. It is the mission of the Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society (KWHS) to offer sanctuary to animals in need, whether abandoned, stray, neglected, or abused. As much as we strive to provide a peaceful, safe, and socially enriched environment for animals in need, a Humane Society can be a stressful place for many animals, particularly for those animals that are expecting or nursing their young. Foster homes provide an invaluable service to shelters by taking care of special needs cases (e.g. nursing or pregnant cats, orphan kittens and shy dogs) in a quiet and comforting environment. The KWHS is eager to build a team of foster families who are willing to open their homes to provide a temporary respite for these animals before they are placed for adoption.
What is foster care?
The definition of ‘foster’ is: “to promote the growth and development of an individual.” Therefore, a foster family plays an important role in a critical time in an animal’s life. In addition to providing the animals with basic necessities such as food, water and shelter, it is the caregiver’s responsibility to nurture the animal to be a loving pet. A foster family must always be aware of the specific needs of the animal(s) in their care. For example, the needs of a young animal are different than an older animal. For kittens and puppies, positive social interaction with people and other animals on a daily basis is critical. This allows the animal to develop into a friendly, confident and sociable pet. An older animal with an injury may be adequately socialized, but may require daily medication and have specific dietary and exercise needs.
Meet Some of Our Foster Success Stories
Stitch was found under the hood of a car at a local dealership; unfortunately for him he was injured by the fan belt. The kind employees at the dealership called the KWHS and he was rushed to a local veterinarian. With some well-needed recuperation and medication he recovered nicely in foster care. As a result of his quick recovery he was placed in a loving forever home.
Foster Care at the KWHS
Being a foster caregiver is a rewarding experience, but it can also be frustrating and challenging at times. If you are prepared for a challenge please consider becoming a member of the KWHS Foster Care Team.
Unfortunately, due to the varying number of animals to be placed, we are unable to accommodate all applicants.
Foster Volunteer Requirements:
- Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older.
- Volunteers must reside in Waterloo Region.
- Volunteers with pets must show proof of spay or neuter and current vaccinations.
- Volunteers must have a separate room to isolate a foster animal.
- Volunteer must have time to care for foster animals.
- Volunteers must have access to a vehicle.
Steps to Becoming a KWHS Foster Volunteer:
- Complete the Foster Volunteer Application located at the bottom of this page.
- Send the application via email to: melissa.reindl@kwhumane.com or fax to: 519-745-3224.
- Volunteers suitable for the program will be contacted for an interview.
- Following the interview, all foster volunteers will be asked to complete a criminal record check and be scheduled for an orientation.
For more information on the KWHS Foster Program and to receive an application, please contact our Foster Care Program Coordinator, Melissa Reindl at 519-745-5615 or email melissa.reindl@kwhumane.com.
