Becoming a foster carer with Pets Of The Homeless is one of the most powerful ways you can help keep vulnerable people and their pets together during times of crisis.
We believe the bond between a person and their pet is unbreakable, and fostering plays a critical role in ensuring that bond is protected when life takes an unexpected turn.
If you live in metro Victoria and are considering fostering for Pets Of The Homeless, this checklist will help you understand what’s involved and whether foster caring is right for you.
Why Foster for Pets Of The Homeless?
Foster care changes lives — both human and animal.
By opening your home to a pet temporarily, you give their guardian the space and peace of mind to focus on rebuilding their life.
This may include securing housing, escaping family violence, entering hospital, or accessing crisis accommodation, all while knowing their beloved pet is safe, loved, and cared for.
As a foster carer, you’ll be matched with a pet whose needs suit your home and lifestyle.
Foster placements can range from a few weeks to a few months, and throughout that time, you’ll be fully supported by our team.
All animals in foster care are part of our Safe Shelter Program and are reunited with their guardian as soon as it’s safe and possible to do so.
It’s a meaningful experience that creates real impact for the pet, their person, and you.
Foster Carer Checklist: Are You Ready?
Use this checklist to see if fostering with Pets Of The Homeless may be right for you.
✔ Location & Eligibility
- Live in metro Victoria
- Be 18 years or older
- Hold a valid driver’s licence or have access to reliable transport
✔ Home Environment
- Provide a safe, secure, indoor environment
- Ability to separate foster animals from your own pets if required
- For dog fostering:
- No children under 7 years of age
- Foster dogs must sleep inside
- Pets cannot be left home alone for more than 8 hours
✔ Existing Pets (If Applicable)
- Your pets must be:
- Fully vaccinated
- Treated for fleas and worms
- Desexed
- Sociable and able to cope with a temporary foster animal
✔ Time Commitment
- Be willing to foster for 4–12 weeks, depending on need
- Able to transport foster pets to vet appointments
What Support Will You Receive?
You are never on your own as a foster carer.
24/7 Support
- Ongoing guidance from our experienced team
- A comprehensive Foster Carer Handbook
Supplies Covered
- Pet food, bedding, toys, and essential supplies provided
- All approved veterinary expenses covered through our partner clinics
The Foster Care Process
Becoming a foster carer with Pets Of The Homeless is a straightforward process, with guidance at every step:
- Complete the foster carer application form
- Phone interview with our team
- Property inspection to ensure safety and suitability
- Submit required checks (National Police Check, Photo ID, landlord permission if applicable)
- Read and sign a foster carer agreement
- Start fostering when a suitable match becomes available
Ready to Become a Foster Carer?
If you’re ready to help keep best friends together and make a genuine difference in your community, we’d love to hear from you.
