Become a Foster Home

As a foster home, you will provide temporary care for an animal in need until we can find a suitable permanent home. Becoming a foster home is easy and there is absolutely no cost or long-term obligation. Foster homes are vital to our success. Simply put, they saves lives. We rely on them. Sadly, every day in Alberta there are hundreds of dogs waiting to be rescued and we desperately need your help. We believe that every dog deserves a second chance.

How the process works

Our goal is to make the fostering experience as enjoyable as possible for you and your family. Each dog we rescue is assessed by a SCARS intake coordinator before it is matched to a suitable individual or family. If a dog has special needs, it will be placed in a foster home that is able to meet those needs. Our foster home coordinator will meet with you to discuss the type of animal that would suit your lifestyle, comfort zone, and level of experience.

What we provide

We provide everything you will need. This includes food, treats, and supplies such as a dog kennel, collar, leash, toys, blankets, and so forth. If the animal requires veterinary visits, the expense is directly billed to SCARS. As well, we will support you in taking courses that will enhance your ability to assist our foster animals, such as completing animal first aid certification or attending a dog training class. We only ask that you discuss it with us first to ensure we are able to cover the expenses on your behalf.

What we ask in return

Your role is to provide everything that a happy, healthy dog needs. This includes regular feedings, exercise, warm shelter, love and attention. We also ask that you help us showcase the dog on at least one occasion per month. For example, you can take it to a Saturday morning Global TV appearance or to a Saturday or Sunday afternoon adoption event. If you are not available to participate in an event, then we ask that you allow one of our volunteers to pick up the dog and take it to an event on your behalf.

The rewards of fostering

As a foster home, you are helping an animal learn to trust and bond with people, perhaps for the first time in its life. Just think what it must mean to an animal to go from hunger, pain and neglect to a new life of comfort, safety and attention. You'll be surprised at how very grateful they are and how much love they can't wait to give. If you find that the dog chosen for you doesn't suit your home, that's not a problem. You can return the dog to us at any time and for any reason. We only ask that you give us as much notice as possible so we can arrange for an alternative home.

For more information about fostering for SCARS, email the SCARS Foster Home Supervisor