BY JENNIFER STRICKLAND, Director of Community Relations
May is the official nationally recognized Foster Parent Appreciation Month. While animals may not have been part of the equation when this awareness month was created, Foothills Animal Shelter would like to highlight volunteers who foster pets.
We currently have 150 foster volunteers who generously open up their hearts and homes to orphaned animals. These dedicated individuals and families care for kittens and puppies who are too young to be placed up for adoption and help with animals who may require specialized care, such as extra socialization or surgery recovery.
More foster homes are always in need, especially when gearing up for what is known to shelter staff and volunteers as “Kitten Season.” The trend is that with warmer weather comes litter after litter of kittens. This timeframe typically ranges from late spring through early fall. The amount of time needed to foster a pet(s) can vary from a few days to a few weeks. Matching up volunteers to the right foster scenario is key.
The process to become a foster volunteer starts with an application and then an interview. At that point, a Shelter representative comes to the house to see what would be an ideal fit. Some people may not be equipped to have a litter of puppies, but perhaps would be fantastic for a rabbit or bird. To get to know the experience level of the volunteer is also necessary. Many volunteers are able to handle a shorter term commitment, but fewer can house animals for a few weeks.
Why foster? If you are an animal lover and want to make a tremendous difference to the life of an orphaned pet, this could be your calling. It is also a great opportunity for families to volunteer together.
If you are interested or have questions, call 720-407-5231 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . You can also download an application and receive more information at www.FoothillsAnimalShelter.org or by visiting us in person at 580 McIntyre Street in Golden (located near 6th Avenue and Indiana on the Jeffco Fairgrounds). Bow-wow, meow and thanks for considering becoming a foster parent!
Jennifer Strickland can be reached at 720-407-5224 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it