P.O. Box 164
Waterloo, IL 62298 618-282-7387
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Humane Society of
Monroe County, Illinois
Humane Society of Monroe County Foster Care Program:
Everything You've Wanted to Know
Thank you for your interest in the Humane Society of Monroe County Foster Care Program. We are seeking individuals who are interested in becoming foster parents. After reading this information, if you have questions, contact us at 618-282-PETS.
What is the Foster Care Program?
The foster care program is a program by which HSMC is able to place temporarily animals into the homes of foster care volunteers to allow them the necessary time to become adopted. Potentially adoptable animals are given a temporary home, care, and love while they are waiting for a permanent home.
What Does a Foster Parent Do?
Foster families provide the loving attention required until we can place these animals in a new home. Volunteers take in dogs, cats, puppies, kittens, etc. These generous people provide a hands-on lifesaving service to homeless animals.
Who does the Foster Care Program benefit?
The animals: Foster care for shelter animals has a direct impact on the number of homeless animals saved each year. Animals that otherwise may have been euthanized can be adopted into permanent, loving homes. These animals also start out with a stronger training background and wider socialization, which will help them become the best possible pet.
The volunteers: Although foster care can be difficult, it is an incredibly rewarding experience. Each time a foster animal is adopted, you gain the satisfaction of knowing that you have helped another animal find a lifelong home when it may have otherwise been euthanized. It is a flexible volunteer position that allows you to choose the type of animal you are comfortable sharing your home with.
The community: Foster care provides the community a larger segment of healthy, socialized animals. In addition, as a result of foster care by volunteers the public becomes more educated on animal health and care issues.
The shelter: Since we do not have a facility this is the only way we can help to save the unwanted animals in Monroe County.
What are the Requirements to become a HSMC Foster Care volunteer?
To become a volunteer, you must first:
1. Fill out a specialized foster care application, and have it approved by the HSMC adoption committee 2. Have landlord approval if necessary. 3. Host an annual home visit completed by HSMC adoption committee member. 4. Have adequate space and time to care for foster animals. 5. Be willing to spend a large amount of time and energy with an animal that will be returning to the shelter for adoption. 6. Upon approval you will be requested to pay a $25 Illinois Department of Agriculture foster home licensing fee, done through HSMC. Responsibilities of a HSMC foster care volunteer:
The basic responsibilities you would be expected to fulfill as a Humane Society of Monroe County foster care volunteer are to:
Click here to download a Foster Application Revised July 03, 2009
1. Provide food, water, socialization, training, exercise, and administer medication for foster animals. 2. Provide a secure home for the animal(s). 3. Ensure that all household animals are healthy and current of vaccines. 4. Observe foster animals and report any problems or questions to the HSMC. Also, understand that veterinary care cannot be sought without receiving approval. 5. Return all animals to HSMC as scheduled or requested by HSMC. 6. Make a commitment to the foster care program and the animals it helps Page design by Mechelle Childers Copyright @ 2009 Humane Society of Monroe County.