Foster Care Volunteer Program

Fostering animals can be rewarding, but it can also be hard. Sometimes animals, including foster animals, may have serious health problems. Even with the best care, some animals may pass away or need to be euthanized to stop their suffering. This can be very sad, but it’s part of giving them love and care while they are with you. The BC SPCA provides mental health supports whenever this happens and as part of the overall foster experience.

If a foster animal gets sick or hurt, or if a person or another animal is injured, it’s important to tell the BC SPCA right away so we can help. The BC SPCA provides training and support to help you through these challenges. We also connect you with other fosters, so you don’t feel alone.

While fostering, you may also care for animals who have been abused or neglected by other humans. This can be upsetting but the BC SPCA is here to support. Fostering can be difficult at times, but knowing you’ve helped an animal feel safe and loved makes it worth it.

No, foster animals must be treated by veterinarians working with the BC SPCA. These vets are familiar with the animal’s medical history and follow BC SPCA protocols to ensure consistent care. They also know who to contact if additional care or decisions are needed. While many excellent veterinarians are in our communities, we ask that foster animals see BC SPCA partner vets , which may include accessing telemedicine or virtual appointments, to keep their care consistent and aligned with our records.

If you take your foster animal to your own vet, you would be responsible for the cost of that care. Additionally, community vets are often very busy, and sharing medical history with a new clinic could delay treatment. Using BC SPCA partner vets ensures the best and most efficient care for foster animals.

To make things easy for you, we will provide you with a list of emergency contacts so you’ll be able to access the right support 24/7.

Saying goodbye to a foster animal once they are adopted can be tough because you build a bond while caring for them. If you or someone you know wants to adopt your foster animal, let the foster team know and they will support you with next steps.

The BC SPCA considers all adoption applications carefully. Our goal is to find the best home for every animal and to help make the process as easy as possible for you.

Fostering an animal is very different from typical pet companionship. If you’re looking for a pet, please visit our adoptions page.