| Foster Though we always think it is a very special moment when we place one of our pets in a forever home there is still an even more important stop along the way for our pets and that is the stop at their foster home. Many of our pets are in need of a home desperately but, before we can place them in their forever home, we need to make sure they are healthy and happy and then screen all of our wonderful adopters for the right home. This process would not be possible without our wonderful foster homes where our pets can acclimate to being healthy and loved. WOULD I BE A GOOD FOSTER PARENT? Foster parents can come in all shapes and sizes. You can be old or young, have kids or not, have furry friends or not, and be a first time pet owner or not. The one thing all of our foster families have in common is the love they have for their new charges. Some people are able to take on a larger project with a pet that needs a lot of training and socializing and who may not find a new home right away, other people prefer to foster already trained dogs who just need shelter, love, and affection until they are placed into their new home. Both of these homes are great places and are just what we need from our foster families. HOW DO I BECOME A FOSTER PARENT? Applying to be a foster parent is very easy. If you are interested you can apply online or you can contact our offices and we can mail you an application form. After a few reference checks and a home inspection you will receive your answer. Your preference of animal will be reviewed and an agreement will be signed. If there is an animal available at that time one will be placed with you. You will also receive a supply of food and toys for the new foster as well as some background information. Understanding how a foster home operates is a key part of being a successful foster home. Many of the pets coming into our program have had a hard life and need a loving home to help them acclimate to a normal loving life. Some pets will take longer to adjust and to find the perfect home. Other pets will adjust very quickly and will find a home within a few days to a few weeks. The one thing we ask of our foster homes is that they realize what a commitment they are making. Fostering is not a project that can be taken up for a few days and then tossed aside. Our pets need these temporary homes to save their lives, which means they could be with their fosters for 2 days to 2 months to 2 years (a very rare occurrence but it could happen). The foster parents' responsibilities include caring for the animal (feeding, walking, training, attention) and communicating any needs to your placement representative. Rainbow Rescues Inc will be in charge of all vetting and procedures for the pet and will coordinate all appointments for the vet and for prospective applicants. A foster parent does not need to supply food, medical care, or clothing to any of the animals. Just Love, Attention, and Care! |



| Rainbow Rescues Inc (Mailing Address) 89 Rolf Ave Chicopee, Ma 01020 Main Line: 413-612-2744 Emergency Line:413-552-7326 applications@rainbowrescues.org Please allow 24-48 hours for a message to be returned. |