What is the foster program?

The foster care program is an integral part of SVAS’s mission to save lives and help reduce euthanasia in Maricopa County.

Our foster program allows SVAS to save the lives of moms and litters, orphaned litters, and animals recovering from illness and injuries.  The program also allows for some of our animals who are having difficulties with kennel life to have some “chill time” outside of the shelter environment.

What can you do to help?

We need people who are willing to open their hearts and their homes to help our animals.  You can choose to foster dogs or cats according to your experience, lifestyle, preference, and household.

What kind of commitment is this?

The type of commitment is up to you.  You decide whether you want to foster a dog/puppy or a cat/kitten.  You decide if you are more comfortable dealing with newborns, with injured or sick animals, or with animals having behavior issues.

What do we expect from you?

• Lots of patience and love.
• Time to spend with the animal
• The ability to administer basic medications: pills, liquids, ointments, etc.
• Time to bring the animal to our shelter, to an off-site event or to vet appointments
• The ability and knowledge to work on basic obedience and house training
• A convenient area where you can isolate a foster animal from your pets
• A secure fenced yard for dogs
• The willingness to keep cats inside at all times
• The time to socialize the foster animal with other animals and people

What can you expect from SVAS?

• Supply and pay for all the animals’ needs
• Have a foster care coordinator available to address your concerns
• Provide education or classes, as needed
• Explain all the animals’ “issues”