June is National Foster Pet Month! While you might be extra motivated to foster a pet, it’s important to make sure that this commitment is right for you and your family. Here are some questions to ask yourself before applying to be a pet foster!
Question: Will my current pet accept a new pet?
Answer: Although you may love the thought of adding more pets, your current pet may not feel the same way. If your cat or dog is not a fan of other animals, fostering a pet may cause too much household discord.
Q: Do I have time to take care of an additional pet?
A: Foster pets can require a great deal of care and attention before they find their forever home. Some foster pets are not placed on an adoptable-pet list because they have medical issues that need treatment first, or they may require training, socialization, or rehabilitation to become fit for a new family. Puppies and kittens naturally require more care than adult pets, and senior pets can also demand large amounts of your time. Ensure you understand your foster pet’s needs before committing to their care.
Q: Can I foster a pet without becoming attached?
A: One of the hardest parts of fostering pets is resisting falling in love. You can so easily become attached to a pet whom you have loved and cared for, and you may wind up with a house full of “foster failures.” That may be fine for your situation, but many families cannot foster unlimited pets, so knowing how to prevent yourself from becoming attached to your foster pet may be necessary.
Ensure your current pet is up to date on vaccinations and parasite preventives to avoid potential disease and parasite transmission between the two pets. Contact our team for an appointment for your pet!
Reviewed By: Dr. Kevin Wheeler
Dr. Kevin Wheeler is a veterinarian and owner who developed a love for animals while growing up on his family farm in Katy, Texas. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine. His professional interests include soft tissue surgery, preventive medicine, internal medicine, and client education. Dr. Wheeler serves the local community from Woodforest to Montgomery, Conroe, and surrounding areas.