Debunking Myths on Fostering Pets
- Cindy Perez with the Humane Society of North Texas
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
There are many reasons to consider fostering pets at HSNT or your local animal shelter.
By fostering, you are saving lives. You save the life of the pet you foster and the life of the new rescue that can now stay at HSNT because you helped us clear kennel space.
Some people believe fostering is the perfect scenario: all the pet love, while remaining free from long-term commitments. Others are not as convinced that it is something they want to do, and we understand that.
However, sometimes popular myths steer people away from the act of fostering – we are here to debunk those.
1. “Fostering pets is too expensive”
One of the most common misconceptions is that being a foster parent is expensive.
How much does it cost to be a foster parent? The reality is that at HSNT, fostering can be as affordable as you want it to be.
We provide all of the essential supplies a foster parent will need for the duration the foster pet stays with you, if you are not able to afford them. From kennels, blankets, bottles and formula, food and treats, to toys and medical care, HSNT will give you all of the supplies necessary to take care of the foster pet. If you ever run out of anything, we can support you with more supplies to ensure the foster pet and parent have the best experience possible.
Foster parents with HSNT also have access to additional resources with our staff members in case questions or concerns arise while fostering.
2. “I’ll want to keep every pet I foster”
Another myth you often hear when the conversation on fostering is brought up is the heartbreak of getting attached to a pet after helping them grow, only to have to send them off to a new family.
While the heartbreak can be something you experience as a foster parent, Tiffany, a recurring foster parent at HSNT, says that “The most rewarding part of fostering is seeing the progress of the vulnerable pets when they arrive with you, to seeing them thrive now.”
Goodbyes can hurt, especially if you’ve been with your foster pet through it all.
“But, because you let that pet find its forever home, you can answer that next call for the bottle baby who wouldn’t survive the weekend. And that baby deserves saving, too.” says Tiffany.
3. “I have kids, I can’t foster”
Fostering pets indeed requires flexibility and preparation; sometimes it is easier to prepare when there is no one else you need to worry about, like children or other pets.
If you are an animal lover and have kids, fostering can be a great way to teach your children the value of taking care of animals and of helping your community.
“Based on our mutual love of animals and giving us a common cause, [fostering] has really brought my daughter and me closer together,” says Tiffany.
Advice from Foster Parent Tiffany
If you’re still on the fence about fostering, here are some words of encouragement from Tiffany,
“If you are considering fostering, I would encourage you to reach out and open a conversation with HSNT. They are an incredible resource, full of knowledge, helpful advice, and incredible people. Fostering is one of the most meaningful journeys I have been on, one worth the interrupted sleep, the added responsibility, and the heartbreaking goodbyes. It has given us far more than it asks.”
To begin your journey as a foster parent at the Humane Society of North Texas, fill out the Foster Application here.
Whether you are a foster parent, volunteer, donor, or someone who
, the work that we do at HSNT would not be possible without you. Your support is greatly appreciated.
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