Fostering
(Temporary Housing a Pet)
Fostering is one of the most impactful ways you can help save a pet’s life and support animal rescue
At Midwest Animal Rescue & Services (MARS), we rely on caring foster families to provide safe and loving temporary homes for dogs and cats until they find their forever families. Whether you’re able to foster for a weekend, a few weeks, or until adoption, every home makes a difference. We provide the supplies, support, and guidance—you provide the love.
Together, we can give pets a second chance and bring hope to both animals and people.
Ways You Can Foster
Short Term Care
Sometimes a pet just needs a quick place to land!
Perfect for weekends or a few days at a time, short-term fostering helps pets in a pinch while giving you a taste of what fostering is like — no long-term commitment required, just short-term love.
Vacation Fostering
When our regular fosters go out of town, Vacation Fosters step in!
It’s a great way to help, get your feet wet, and care for a pet during a set window of time. Think of it as a mini rescue stay-cation — you bring the cuddles, we’ll provide the support!
Full Time Fostering
The classic kind of fostering — you open your home until your foster pet is adopted.
Some find homes fast, others take a little longer to find “the one.” Either way, you’re giving them the stability, love, and normalcy they need to thrive.
Specialty Care
Some pets need a little extra TLC — whether it’s medical recovery, behavioral support, hospice care, or helping a momma and her puppies (whelping).
If you have a soft spot for the ones who need more care or experience, this role is made for you.
We’ll guide you every step of the way!
Foster to Adopt
Our Foster-to-Adopt program lets you welcome your future pet home for a short period (typically 5 days) before finalizing the adoption.
During this time, you’re their foster — giving them a safe place to land right away while you make sure it’s the perfect fit. Your (potential) pet won’t be listed for other adopters.
It’s a win-win: they only have to settle in once, and you both get the chance to know it’s meant to be.
Please note: Not all pets are eligible for the Foster-to-Adopt program.