Rescued kittens and cats need loving temporary homes until a forever home can be found for them or a space at EASEL’s shelter opens up. Training, support, and supplies are provided. You provide a safe, quiet room in your home and loving care. Transport to veterinary appointments is also required. Fostering may be for only a few weeks or as long as a couple of months, but we are flexible to work with your schedule. This is a great way to enjoy some kitty companionship without a long-term commitment. If you are passionate about animal welfare and are ready to take on this assignment, we would like to hear from you!
If you are interested in volunteering as an animal foster, please submit your application at https://www.easelnj.org/cat-foster-application/
Various types of fostering are available, and we can decide that when we speak with you. General requirements for all fosters are:
- Age requirement: 21 years old or older with valid ID
- Residence within approximately 30 minutes of Ewing NJ
- Own your home or have written permission to have cats from landlord and leaseholder if not yourself.
- Have a separate room (bathroom or spare room) to keep the cats in for an initial adjustment period, or until full vetting is performed. This period could be a few days to a couple of months depending on temperament and vetting status of the particular foster cat(s).
- Provide a safe place and be able to disinfect surfaces, if needed.
- Provide all necessary daily care, including cleaning the litter box and other areas, replenishing food, ensuring access to fresh water, and administering any medications.
- Help your fosters adjust and trust by spending time with them and socializing. This could include petting, grooming, sharing a space, or playing together.
- Observe, record, and report health and behavioral changes in accordance with instructions provided by the Foster Coordinator.
- Be willing and able to transport your foster cat(s) to and from EASEL’s shelter.
- Be able to provide attention to your foster cat(s) regularly to ensure adequate socialization, particularly important with kittens.
- Communicate any out-of-town trips or other obligations which could conflict with having one or more foster cats clearly and as soon as possible.
All foster cat medical needs will be handled by EASEL’s shelter vet or veterinary partners. Any additional expenses you incur during the course of your volunteer work may be tax-deductible.