Foster a pet

A temporary home can make a lifetime of difference

Foster a pet

A temporary home can make a lifetime of difference

Help a pet in need

While we work hard to give every animal in our care a safe and comfortable space, nothing compares to the warmth of a home. Some pets simply need a quieter place to heal, grow, or adjust before they’re ready for adoption. That’s where our foster families step in.

Fostering a pet through Ripley County Humane Society gives a dog or cat the chance to thrive outside the shelter. It also opens up space for us to help another animal in need. Whether it’s a short-term stay or a longer commitment, every foster home makes a real difference.

We offer supplies as needed.

Becoming a foster hero

Step 1

Submit your application

Start by filling out our foster application and learning what to expect. We’ll help you understand everything you need to know to care for a dog or cat in your home.

Step 2

Choose a pet to foster

We regularly take in animals who need extra care, time to recover, or a quieter home environment. When you apply to foster, we thoughtfully match you with a pet that fits your home, schedule, and experience so it is a good fit for both you and the animal.

Step 3

Welcome your foster pet

Bring your foster pet home and begin your journey. We’ll provide supplies as needed, guidance, and ongoing support to help you every step of the way.

Step 4

Help them find their forever home

When your foster pet is ready, we will work together to find them a permanent, loving home. The love and care you provide helps prepare them for that next big step. We do ask that you share regular updates and bring your foster pet to adoption events, as well as make them available for scheduled meet and greets so interested families have the chance to meet them.

Open your home to a foster pet

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    Scroll inside the green box below to view all available pets.
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    Use the arrows at the bottom to move through the pages and see more pets.

Have questions about fostering?

You’ll likely find the answer here. If you still have questions, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help!

Fostering is a rewarding experience, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Before you begin the application and orientation, take a moment to make sure the following apply to you:

  • You are at least 18 years old

  • You live within driving distance of our shelter in Osgood

  • Your personal pets are spayed or neutered

  • You live at a stable, permanent residence

  • You can bring foster pets to the shelter for medical appointments as needed

  • You have no felony convictions or misdemeanors related to violence, theft, animal cruelty, or drugs

If this feels like a good fit, we’d be honored to have you join our foster team.

Many of our foster pets need a little extra care before they’re ready for adoption. These are some of the most common reasons a pet may need a foster home:

  • Dogs and cats who have been in our care for more than 30 days

  • Orphaned puppies or kittens who need bottle feeding

  • Moms with litters that need a quiet, safe space

  • Pets who are shy or stressed and need time to build trust and confidence

No matter the reason, your care gives these animals the chance to rest, heal, and prepare for a brighter future.

Yes. Most of our foster volunteers work full-time and are able to care for their foster pets around their work schedules. As long as the pet has a safe place to stay and receives attention, feeding, and basic care, it’s no problem if you're gone during the day.

It depends on the pet’s needs. Some may only need a few days, while others might stay for several weeks or more. We’ll work with you to find a foster match that fits your schedule and comfort level.

In most cases, you’ll have the first opportunity to adopt your foster pet. Just let us know before the pet is scheduled to return. If you know someone who would like to adopt, we encourage you to help with the match. We're here to support you through the process.

You must be at least 21 years old to foster.

es. We provide necessary veterinary care for foster pets while they are in your home. We will guide you through any appointments or treatments needed and support you along the way.

Our foster heroes save lives

Foster volunteers give animals the calm, stable care they need to heal and grow. By opening your home, you help them build confidence, recover from stress, and get ready for adoption.

Each year, caring foster families help many pets receive the extra attention they need. Their compassion makes a lasting difference, and yours can too.

We take in new animals every week, and many need temporary homes before they can find their forever families. Sign up to foster and give a second chance to a pet who is waiting for one.