We get many questions about the ins and outs of fostering. To help you understand our foster program better, we've compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions below. If you have any questions that are not answered here, please email us at [email protected] or call the shelter at 601-544-6632.

How do I start fostering? ​

The best way to see what animals are available for foster is through our Southern Pines Foster Group on Facebook. If you don’t have a Facebook, no sweat! Just give us a call at 601-544-6632 or email us at [email protected].

If you are interested in picking up a foster, you can make a new foster pickup appointment to reserve a time. Please keep in mind that getting animals into foster is our priority, thus foster pickups operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. You’re welcome to download our Foster Profile and bring it with you or fill it out at the time of your first appointment. 

Does it cost money to foster?

Fostering is free--we provide all of the basic care supplies for your furry friend.​

What supplies do I need to foster?

The shelter provides all the resources you need to care for your foster: food, litter, litter boxes, medical care, collar/leash, and even a crate or playpen. Of course, you’re always welcome to spoil your foster animal with any extra toys and treats! Southern Pines cannot reimburse you for costs of any supplies you choose to purchase for your foster pet. 

What kind of animals are eligible for foster?

Most of our animals in foster are underage and/or underweight kittens and puppies (less than 8 weeks old and/or less than 2 pounds). Our Kitten Manual is a great place to learn all about fostering tiny felines and the best ways to take care of them. Not to fret, dog lovers--we love sending adult dogs into foster, too! Check out our Adoption Ambassador program to learn more about how you can help adult animals find their forever home through fostering You can view all of the animals eligible for foster at www.southernpinesanimalshelter.org/foster-eligible-animals.html.

How long do I keep my foster animal?

The amount of time you care for your foster is entirely dependent on the animal and your schedule. Some animals need just a night, and others need several weeks in foster, especially if they’re recovering from a medical or behavioral issue. Regardless of the length of time an animal needs foster care, even a night or two in your home can be life-saving! Learn more about how even a short-term foster can save lives through our Foster First Responder program here.

How do I schedule foster appointments?

To schedule a new foster pickup, foster recheck, or foster drop off appointment please visit cutt.ly/FosterSchedule. ​

What do I do if my foster gets sick?

We will provide all of the medical care needed for your foster animals. If you have a concern during business hours, you can call the shelter at 601-544-6632, email foster staff, or set up a foster recheck appointment. If you have a medical emergency outside of business hours, you can call the Foster Emergency Phone at 601-310-8248. Southern Pines is not able to reimburse for medical expenses if you choose to take your foster pet to a veterinarian, so it is important that you reach out to us ASAP if there is an issue so that we can see the animal for free. 
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What should I do if an emergency occurs regarding my foster animal?

If an emergency happens during operating hours (12pm - 5pm every day except Wednesdays), call the shelter first at 601-544-6632. If an emergency happens after hours, call our foster emergency number at 601-310-8248 ASAP to reach a foster coordinator. Southern Pines is not able to reimburse for medical expenses if you choose to take your foster pet to a veterinarian, so it is important that you reach out to us ASAP if there is an issue so that we can see the animal for free. ​​

What if I want to take my foster animal to my own vet or another full service vet clinic?

Southern Pines is not able to reimburse for medical expenses if you choose to take your foster pet to a veterinarian, so it is important that you reach out to us ASAP if there is an issue so that we can see the animal for free.  Our shelter veterinarian and medical team manage the medical care for all of our foster animals and should be used instead of any personal vets.  ​

Can I receive volunteer hours for fostering?

Fosters receive 1-5 volunteer hours per animal per day depending on the number of animals and their specific needs. This makes fostering an easy and impactful way to rack up some community service hours! ​

Can I introduce my foster to my personal pets?

For the health and safety of foster and personal pets, we recommend keeping them separated as much as possible. Many of our foster animals are underage or have weakened immune systems and may be more susceptible to catching or passing along illnesses than healthy, personal pets. While we do vaccinate and medically assess every animal in our care, we cannot guarantee the health of our foster animals and are not able to reimburse fosters for any medical or other expenses incurred. Some animals also have behavioral issues that make them a poor candidate for introduction to other pets.  If you decide to introduce your foster and personal animals, send us an email at [email protected] to learn more about how to safely introduce animals to each other! 

Can I foster if I don’t have a fenced-in backyard?

Absolutely! We don’t require that our fosters have fenced-in yards but do require that our fosters provide safe, secure housing of some type. We are happy to loan out a collar or harness and leash, crate, or playpen for our fosters to ensure that they are able to be safely housed and exercised. ​

What if I want to adopt my foster?

Though we encourage you to bring your foster animals back to make room for future fosters, you are absolutely able to adopt a foster that has become a part of your family! Fosters get first dibs on the adoption of eligible foster animals and $25 off the adoption fee. Always let our Foster Coordinator know as soon as you’re interested in adopting your foster animal, and pay close attention to the adoption deadline on your foster contract. ​

What if someone I know wants to adopt my foster?

Congratulations! Helping to find your foster their forever home is one of the many perks of fostering. Check out our Adoption Ambassador program to learn more about marketing your foster and completing the adoption process.

What if I need to bring my foster back early?

We understand that sometimes a foster isn’t the right fit or that life happens and fosters need to return early. If you need to return your foster before their recheck or return date, please make a foster drop off appointment at cutt.ly/FosterSchedule or call us at 601-544-6632.