39 What to Expect If you’re interested in fostering a pet, the first place to reach out to is your lo- cal animal shelter. In Southern Nevada, organizations like The Animal Founda- tion, Las Vegas Valley Humane Society and Hearts Alive Village offer pet foster- ing programs. Often, these organizations have coordinators, volunteers or veteran fosters who work directly with you to find a match that fits your home, lifestyle and schedule and are there to support you throughout your time as a foster. Some even assist with food, litter, toys, medica- tion and other essentials. When fostering a pet, it’s important to remember your new friend may have come from a troubled background or may be apprehensive about being in a new environment. Pets come in all shapes and sizes, and they all have their quirks. Be patient. There’s no telling what type of personality may come with a new pet, but offering a loving home and providing training and structure will help them on their adoption journey. If you’ve been thinking about adopting a pet, but aren’t sure you have the time, money or energy to be a full-time pet parent, fostering may be just the right stepping stone for you. Whether it’s a stray dog or a litter of kittens, fostering a pet not only makes a difference in the well-being of the animal, but is also a rewarding experience for you. Fostering provides a temporary home for pets, from dogs and cats to horses and rabbits. Most placements last between two weeks and two months and play a key role in successfully finding the pet’s future forever home. How to Become a Foster Providing foster care to an animal in need will be a worthwhile experience, but saying goodbye can be emotionally challenging. Working with a pet and successfully sending your new friend to its forever home can feel bittersweet, but the time and effort you’ve put into your foster pet is the greatest gift you can give these animals. Once you’ve decided to become a foster, you’ll want to visit a rescue organization and complete the application process. Often, this requires submitting an online or paper application with information such as your contact details, types of pets you’re willing to foster and questions about your background with pets and living situation. Home visits are often required before an animal can be placed. During the application process, ask questions like who’s responsible for vet visits, medication or other necessary expenses. This is also a great time to discuss resources and best practice tips to help you foster your new furry visitor. Fostering a pet is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Opening your home gives these animals shelter, a cozy bed, love, affection and most of all, the best advantage for finding a forever home – and it may just be with you.