You can make the world a better place with one simple action: Fostering a pet!

A UPAWS foster volunteer provides temporary, in-home care for animals that need a little extra time before they’re ready for adoption. Foster animals may be recovering from illness or surgery, too young for adoption, adjusting to life outside the shelter, or simply in need of a quieter environment while they wait to be adopted. By opening your home, you help animals become healthier, more confident, and better prepared to find loving forever homes.

Foster needs vary throughout the year. While UPAWS maintains an active network of foster volunteers, additional foster homes are recruited as shelter needs arise. Opportunities may include kittens, puppies, animals recovering from medical treatment, hospice care, behavior support, or emergency placements.

Why become a foster parent?

• Reduces the amount of time an animal spends at UPAWS.
• Allows UPAWS to have open kennels for other animals in need.
• Help UPAWS better understand an animal’s personality, behavior, and individual needs.
• Helps a pet become more adoptable and increases the chance of a successful adoption.
• Makes a big difference for one animal in need.
• It’s fun and rewarding!

How do I get started?

Becoming a UPAWS Foster Volunteer is easy!

Step 1

Review the Foster Volunteer Requirements

To become a foster volunteer, you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Have resident pets that are spayed/neutered and up to date on vaccinations.
• Have health insurance.
• Meet any additional foster requirements discussed during orientation.

Step 2

Watch the UPAWS Foster Orientation Video

Our 13-minute orientation video will walk you through:

• How the foster program works
• What UPAWS provides
• What foster volunteers provide
• Expectations and responsibilities
• Frequently asked questions

Step 3

Complete the Online Foster Volunteer Application

If you’re still interested after watching the orientation, simply complete the online application.

➡️ Complete the Foster Volunteer Application HERE

Step 4

Complete the Foster Orientation Quiz

After watching the orientation video and submitting your application, we’ll email you a link to complete a short Foster Orientation Quiz. Please check your spam or junk folder if you don’t see it in your inbox. A score of 85% or higher is required before becoming an approved foster volunteer.

Step 5

Join Our Foster Volunteer Network

Once your application and quiz have been successfully completed, you’ll be added to our approved foster volunteer list. As foster opportunities arise, UPAWS staff will contact approved volunteers whose interests, availability, and experience best match the needs of the individual animal.

Questions? We’d love to help!
Contact Ann Brownell at volunteer@upaws.org.