Welcome to Fostering!

Thank you for opening your home to a foster animal! At Friends of Michigan Animals Rescue (FMAR), our mission is to provide a safe haven for cats and dogs in need, while offering education and promoting the human-animal bond. This guide is designed to support you through every step of your foster journey—from preparing your home to understanding your foster's behavior.

 FAQs

  • All FMAR animals receive a vet check, age-appropriate vaccines, microchips, deworming, and heartworm testing, FiV/FeLV testing. However, some animals are placed into medical foster. Whatever the situation, we'll discuss any ongoing health concerns before placement.

  • The foster period varies. Some animals are adopted quickly; others may stay for several months.

    Medical fosters can also dictate the length of time.

    Pregnant/nursing animals will be in a home for at least 6 - 10 weeks

  • FMAR covers medical care, food, supplies, litter and crates. You're welcome to buy extra treats or toys, but we can’t reimburse personal purchases.

  • We’ll absolutely take your preferences into account, but our priority is placing the animals who need the most support, while also making sure the environment is the right fit. That includes considering things like other pets in the home, children, activity levels, and whether an animal is shy, recovering from trauma, or needs extra socialization. Our goal is to match each animal with a home where they can truly thrive.

  • Let us know as early as possible so we can plan alternate care.

  • Yes! Fosters get first priority to adopt the pet in their care.

  • Accidents may happen. FMAR isn’t liable for home damage. For medical issues, contact the Foster Coordinator—appointments are scheduled with our vet partner.

  • These events help potential adopters meet our dogs. Please attend if possible, or let us know if your foster needs a ride.

Getting Your Home Ready

Before bringing your foster pet home, take a moment to assess the space:

  • Is the room large enough to comfortably fit a crate or carrier as a safe retreat?

  • Is the crate or resting area in a quiet, low-traffic part of the room where they can feel secure?

  • Is there easy access to the outdoors for dogs, or a suitable spot for a litter box for cats?

  • Are there items that could be chewed, scratched, or knocked over—like drapes, rugs, or furniture?

  • Are any electrical wires exposed or within reach?

  • Are there shelves, counters, or tables with objects that could be knocked down by a curious cat or wagging tail?

  • Are there any plants in the room? If so, check to be sure they’re not toxic to pets.

  • If you have a fenced-in backyard, check for holes or gaps in the fence and any potential escape routes. Walk the perimeter to ensure it’s secure. Remove or block access to anything that could cause injury, such as sharp tools, toxic plants, or broken furniture.

A little prep goes a long way in creating a safe, welcoming environment for your new foster—whether they purr or bark.

Next

Fostering With Resident Animals