Foster FAQs

None! WAAL covers all vet bills and provides all food, litter, toys and kennels. We even pay for doggy daycare if needed.

Most fosters stay with their family until adoption. Because every animal is different, the length of time can vary — but we support you throughout the process. 

We work hard to prevent that, but if challenges arise, we provide trainers, daycare options, and veterinary support. If it truly isn’t working, we will move the animal as quickly as possible. 

That’s okay. We have lower-maintenance animals that do well in homes with busy schedules. We’ll help match you with the right fi

That means you’re doing it right. Saying goodbye can be hard — and fosters always have the option to adopt if it’s the right decision for you. 

Absolutely. You are an essential part of the matching process. We want fostering to feel manageable, meaningful, and positive. 

We don’t always know an animal’s history when they arrive, but we provide training, clear protocols, and vet-approved guidance to minimize risk and keep everyone safe. 

This is a true partnership. You’ll receive regular check-ins, access to professional resources, and connection to other fosters — plus WAAL staff support day and night. 

Not at all. Most just need time, care, and stability. Many are young, shy, recovering, or stressed from their circumstances. With a little TLC, they become incredible companions. 

While you must be 18 years old to foster, we do encourage all family members to be involved in the decision to foster as fostering is a meaningful way to teach responsibility and compassion before committing to a permanent pet.