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For some dogs and cats awaiting adoption, a traditional shelter isn't right for them.
That is why the Almost Home Humane Society of North Central Iowa is looking for people willing to care for a pet in their home while it awaits its permanent home.
The society operates what it calls a foster program to house pets outside of its shelter at 725 S. 32nd St. People who participate in the foster program are not obligated to adopt any pet they take into their homes. And they will get help from the society that may include providing pet food and kitty litter.
"Almost Home Humane Society of North Central Iowa can rescue and take into their care more dogs, cats, puppies and kittens when there are people willing to provide a foster home," said Becky Nelson-Riley, a member of the society's board. "Fostering a dog or cat costs nothing."
"Fostering a dog or cat involves providing a temporary home and care for an animal until a permanent adoptive family can be found," she added. "It involves opening your heart and your home to an animal in need, offering the dog or cat a safe and loving environment."
Animals that are placed into the foster program include those who don't do well in the kennel environment of the shelter, according to Ashley Tuttle, the society's executive director.
But animals that have special medical needs, those that have been in the shelter for a long time and puppies and kittens up to eight weeks of age are also placed in the foster program, she said.
Nelson-Riley said time in a foster home can help an animal recover from physical or emotional trauma and learn life skills that will make them more adoptable.
All animals in the foster program will remain available for adoption.
Becoming a foster care provider for pets requires completion of an application process that includes a background check and in-home inspection.
To get more information and file an application, visit www.almosthomeiowa.com. On the main menu on the home page, select more and then foster care.