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Foster volunteers are a critical part of Happily Furever After Rescue (HFAR). As a 100% foster-based organization, we rely on foster families to provide dogs and cats a safe and loving home as they wait to be adopted. While fostering requires time and patience, the rewards are immeasurable.​ If you are interested in learning more about fostering, please read through some of our most FAQ:

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How long do you generally foster for?

This is definitely the most common question we get and the short answer is, it depends. We can't guarantee how long, or how short, the foster period will be....sometimes it can be a week, other times it can be as long as six months or more. We do ask that you foster until the animal is adopted to avoid numerous transitions and add additional stress. If at any time you need to go out of town, we just ask for advanced notice so we can find a temporary placement for your pet. 

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What is provided?

Everything! We provide you with all the essentials - a bed, crate, food, treats, toys, collar, leash, harness, etc. There is no expense to you as a foster. Your job is to give all the love, patience, and a nurturing home. Many of our volunteers do like to purchase items for their temporary furry guests but it is not required. Happily Furever After Rescue can also provide a tax deduction letter, if requested.  

 

Do I need to live in Connecticut to foster?

We are a foster based rescue, meaning we don't have a physical facility. All of our dogs and cats are kept in foster homes until adoption. Due to the location of our vet and team, we prefer foster families live no more than 45 minutes away from the Bethel, CT area.

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Can I bring my foster to my own vet?

No, we have a partnership with Bethel Veterinary Hospital in Bethel, CT and Guardian Veterinary Specialists (ER hospital) in Brewster, NY so all vetting must be done there and appointments must be approved and booked by Happily Furever After Rescue. 

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Can volunteers adopt their foster pets?

Yes! As long as it's a good fit, fosters often will have the option to adopt. We generally give the foster families a week to decide after taking their dog or cat home from transport. Many of our volunteers at Happily Furever After Rescue have become "foster fails."

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What should I consider if I currently have pets?

A majority of our foster families have other pets at home. It’s best to be thoughtful and careful whenever you introduce your pet to other animals - this goes for your home and foster pets too! Prior to fostering, we discuss how to properly introduce your foster pet to your current ones.

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What is things aren't working out with my foster and the animals in my home?

We will make every effort to ensure a good and safe foster match. However, sometimes things happen. In this case, contact Happily Furever After Rescue as soon as possible. If the issues are minor, we will work with you to address them. Many times, problems can be solved by trying new things and/or giving the animal time to adjust to your home. Other times, an animal may simply not be a good fit for your home or lifestyle. We will always take the dog or cat back, however, we ask that you give us at least 48 hours to make a plan.

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Are the dogs trained? What about cats?

A majority of the time, no. You need to understand that the dogs are coming from shelters where they're spending 23.5 hours a day in a kennel. When they come into a foster home, accidents should be expected and patience is key. For some dogs, this is the first time they've ever been in a home environment. Being that many of these shelters don't have resources, dogs usually don't have any former training or knowledge of commands.

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Generally the cats and kittens that we get are litter box trained. We have rarely had any issues with them using their box.

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I'm interested! How do I become a foster?

The first step is to complete our foster application here. Once approved, you'll be contacted and arrangements will be made to pick up your foster animal.