Fostering Hope: Special People for Special Animals

What first comes to mind when you think about fostering shelter animals? Lots of us imagine snuggling kittens and puppies until it’s time for them to move on to their new homes and families.

Animals who need foster care will be different depending on where you live. If you live in the southern US, there are more kittens and puppies who need foster homes while they wait for adoption.

In New England, our reality is not only different, but it’s changing fast.

In the last few years, we’ve been witnessing a massive shift in the needs of animals coming through our doors. Increases in adoption, spay/neuter accessibility, and TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return) have significantly reduced the number of healthy animals who need homes. Dakin’s foster caregivers perform a variety of tasks to help their foster animals, including giving medication, weight tracking, behavioral observation, and important record-keeping. Fostering is a hard, dirty job, but one of the most rewarding experiences.

Dakin is working to meet the needs of pets and people in the community by adjusting our programs and services to best serve the animals who need help the most. We are currently seeking foster caregivers who are ready to take on animals with special needs. Opening your heart and home to special needs animals not only sets them up for success - it saves lives.

When an animal is moved to a foster home, space opens in the shelter for another animal in need.

Making the decision to become a foster caregiver is an act of compassion for animals and the people who love them. Getting involved with Dakin is easy!

Click here to view our current needs for foster caregivers. If your home is a match, watch our orientation video and submit an application! You’ll receive training and support from Dakin staff and our group of experienced foster mentors. We’re looking forward to welcoming you to this very special team.