How to Start a Foster Program for Your Shelter: A Step-by-Step Guide to Saving More Lives

Animal shelters across the country are over capacity, and foster programs are a powerful solution. By creating a foster network, your organization can free up space, provide individualized care, and increase adoption rates for vulnerable animals.

If you’re wondering how to launch your own program, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a step-by-step guide to starting a successful foster program for your shelter.

1. Define the Purpose of Your Foster Program

Start by identifying which animals you want to prioritize. These may include:

Neonatal kittens and puppies
Medical recovery cases
Animals with behavioral challenges
Long-term residents who need a break from the shelter

Clear goals help you design a focused program and recruit the right volunteers.

2. Recruit Foster Volunteers

Use social media, your website, and local events to spread the word. Make sure your messaging is friendly and transparent—many people don’t realize they can foster without long-term commitments.

Set up an easy online application process and clearly explain expectations, including time commitments, care responsibilities, and emergency procedures.

3. Create Clear Foster Guidelines

A great foster experience starts with structure. Your guidelines should include:

Feeding and medical care instructions
Emergency contact information
Transport and vet visit protocols
Adoption event participation

Be sure to cover how to handle common issues like house-training, separation anxiety, or introducing fosters to resident pets.

4. Provide Training and Support

Foster caregivers are more confident when they’re prepared. Offer:

Virtual or in-person orientations
How-to guides or manuals
Access to a point person for questions
Ongoing check-ins and emotional support

You can also connect fosters with each other through group chats or forums for added community support.

5. Use Technology to Stay Organized

Managing multiple foster homes can get overwhelming fast. Platforms like Doobert help shelters streamline communication, track animal progress, schedule vet visits, and match animals to the right foster homes.

Centralized tools reduce errors, save time, and improve outcomes for both animals and volunteers.

Fostering Saves Lives—and It Starts with You

A foster program isn’t just a backup plan—it’s a life-saving extension of your shelter. With the right strategy, training, and tools, your organization can build a thriving foster network that gives every animal a better chance at adoption.