Foster a Friend, Change a Life

Ever thought about opening your home to a dog in need? Fostering is one of the most impactful ways to help a dog find their forever home. At Save The Animals Foundation, fostering provides a safe, loving environment while giving our shelter more flexibility to save lives. It’s rewarding, heartwarming, and life-changing for both you and the dog.

A brown dog wearing a pink collar relaxes on a soft blanket on a couch.

The Flexibility of Fostering

We understand that life is busy, which is why our foster program is designed to be flexible and fit your lifestyle. Students, working professionals, and families can all play a part in helping dogs thrive outside the shelter. Please note, you must be at least 18 years old to foster.

Short-Term Fostering

Even a weekend out of the shelter can make a huge difference in an animal’s life. Short-term fostering provides a much-needed break from the stress of a kennel environment. It helps an animal decompress, socialize, and show off their true personality.


Long-Term Fostering

If you have more time to give, consider fostering an animal for a few weeks or more, ideally until adoption. This allows you to really get to know the animal and act as their advocate, which greatly increases their chances of being adopted. The best part? You’ll be their biggest cheerleader, sharing their story and helping them find the perfect match.


Medical Fostering

STAF specializes in rescuing animals who are in the most need, and this means some dogs need special care which is difficult to provide at the shelter. Whether it’s heartworm treatment, healing from a broken bone, or more these foster homes provide for a special need.

A brown and white dog stands on a light floor, facing the camera with a green collar.

We’ve Got Your Back

Fostering may sound intimidating, but you won’t do it alone. STAF provides food, bedding, supplies, and covers all medical care. Our experienced volunteer team is here to answer questions and support you from the day your foster arrives until they’re adopted.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Join the STAF foster family and help give Cincinnati’s homeless dogs a second chance. Reach out to dogfoster@staf.org to get started!