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Foster — Rescue Network Skip to main content

Open your home,
change a life.

Fostering is the bridge between rescue and forever. We provide everything you need — you provide the couch and the love.

On This Page
  • Watch
  • Requirements
  • FAQs
  • Apply
Watch
Be a Foster — Rescue Network Sound on

To be considered as a foster, you must:

  • Be 18 years of age
  • If you rent, your landlord must approve
  • Have all other pets in the home up to date on age-appropriate vaccines
  • Keep all companion animals indoors (resident and foster)
  • Provide adequate exercise and basic care

Frequently asked questions.

What does a foster do?

Fosters provide temporary, in-home care for dogs and cats while they wait to find their forever home. Fosters provide basic daily care such as feeding and exercise, as well as housetraining, leash walking, socialization, and lots of love and patience.

It is not always easy. Many of the animals have lived outside and have never been in a kennel, walked on a leash, or had consistent meals. Fostering requires dedication, hard work, and time commitments.

Fosters are responsible for getting their foster to one of Rescue Network's partner vet clinics, as well as being in good communication with their coordinators and potential adopters.

How long will I have a foster?

There is no set answer. The amount of time for each foster varies depending on age, medical and behavior needs. Fosters must have dedication to keep the foster until they are adopted — this can take days to months.

Can a foster adopt their foster animal?

Yes! Fosters get first dibs. We ask that fosters let their coordinator know within five days, otherwise the animal may be posted on the website and made available to the public.

What are the costs associated with fostering?

Rescue Network covers all necessary expenses related to the dogs and cats' wellbeing — kennel, food, collar, leash, toys, etc. Any reimbursement must be pre-approved by Rescue Network prior to purchase. All veterinary expenses are covered by Rescue Network.

If I already have animals, can I still foster?

Absolutely. We require all resident animals to be up to date on vaccines so they can stay healthy — some animals needing foster may have health issues that can pass to other animals. Rescue Network is not responsible for any illness or injury to your pet caused by a foster animal. You are fostering at your own risk.

Ready to apply?

Fostering is one of the most direct ways to save a life. We'll match you with an animal that fits your home and lifestyle.

Foster Application Foster to Adopt Program
Keep exploring

Related pages.

Foster to adopt

A short-term option with adoption potential.

Volunteer

Other ways to give time.

Contact us

Questions before applying?

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Fosterrescuenetwork2026-06-11T15:09:49-05:00
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Help us reach our goal.

Rescue Network MN — Foster-Based Dog & Cat Rescue
Rescue Network

Eat. Sleep. Rescue Dogs. (and cats) — a 100% foster-based 501(c)(3) saving lives across the Midwest.

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