Foster to adopt

About

Foster to Adopt

The foster-to-adopt program aims to provide a supportive and flexible pathway for potential pet parents to connect with adoptable animals. This is a temporary, two-week foster program so potential adopters can assess compatibility, build relationships, and eventually transition to permanent adoption.

puppy being held
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Steps:

  1. Eligibility Criteria: Prospective foster-to-adopt parents must meet the following criteria:
    • Be at least 21 years old.
    • Have a stable living situation.
    • Demonstrate a genuine interest in adopting a pet.
    • Agree to the animal care agreement.
    • Have an approved adoption application for SCAA
  2. Application Process:
    • Interested individuals submit an adoption application expressing their intent to participate in the foster-to-adopt program.
    • Second Chance Animal Alliance will process and approve or reject the application.
    • Once approved, applicants will sign the foster-to-adopt agreement and pay the adoption fee. If the adoption is not finalized at the end of the two-week period, the adoption fee will be refunded.
  3. Matching Process:
    • Prospective foster-to-adopt parents meet the potential pet.
    • A trial period begins, during which the pet stays with the foster family.
  4. Fostering Period:
    • The foster period will last up to two weeks from when the pet is taken home. 
    • Foster parents provide a safe and nurturing environment for the pet.
    • During this time, they observe the pet’s behavior, health, and interactions with family members and other pets.
    • Regular check-ins are provided by shelter volunteers.
  5. Transition to Adoption:
    • If both the foster family and the pet are comfortable, the transition to adoption occurs by the end of two weeks.


Apply Here

FAQ

What is the difference between foster-to-adopt and just adopting?

The foster-to-adopt process means that you will take in a dog for up to two weeks to determine a fit. These animals will need to go through a decompression period to adjust to their new environment.

Fostering to adopt means that you have first dibs on adopting your foster animal.

What does the rescue provide and cover during the foster-to-adoption period?

Second Chance will cover all prior approved vet visits. We are also able to provide many basic supplies from within our volunteer and foster network (food, dewormer, etc.). We are often able to connect you with a volunteer donating a crate or playpen if you need one.

How long do I have to decide if I want to adopt my foster?

As a FTA candidate, you will have up to 14 days after bringing the animal home to decide whether you would like to adopt. After that period, you will relinquish your status as first in line to adopt your foster. If you decide your foster isn’t the right fit with your lifestyle,  we will  process applications as they come in. After the14 day grace period, if you then decide you would like to adopt you would be placed in line after all applications that are currently being processed for the animal.

If I didn't sign up as FTA at the beginning, do I still have the opportunity to FTA my pup?

Yes. If you decide that you would like to switch to FTA please inform your foster contact as soon as possible, and they will note this.

When am I allowed to adopt my foster animal?

Anytime you feel 100% certain during the foster-to-adopt period. In order to finalize the adoption please inform your foster contact!

If I don’t want to adopt my foster, what happens? How long do I have to foster them?

That is completely fine. Once you have decided not to adopt your foster, we will work on finding the animal a forever home.