Foster-to-Adopt at Midwest Animal Rescue & Services
A flexible path that lets you get to know a pet before making a lifelong commitment.
Foster-to-adopt can be a great option for individuals or families in Minnesota who are interested in adoption and want a thoughtful, supported path forward. Our approach is designed to create successful, lasting matches by keeping both pets and people at the center of every decision.
Please note: Foster-to-adopt availability varies by pet. Not all pets are eligible for foster-to-adopt, and foster periods are designed to be brief and focused.
What Does Foster-to-Adopt Mean at MARS?
Foster-to-adopt is a flexible path that allows a pet to spend time in a home before an adoption is finalized. When appropriate, this approach gives pets space to settle in and gives adopters time to learn more about their needs and personalities. Eligibility, timelines, and adoption decisions are guided by our placement team, with the pet’s long-term success as the priority.
Foster-to-Adopt, at a glance:
-
Apply to foster
-
Connect with our placement team
-
Welcome a pet into your home
-
Get to know each other
-
Adoption decision guided by our placement team, with you
-
Finalize adoption (if it’s a match)
Each step is designed to support both pets and foster families while keeping the focus on long-term success.
1. Apply to Foster
Start by completing our foster application. This helps us understand your home, experience, and availability so we can make thoughtful, appropriate placements.
2. Welcome a Pet into Your Home
Once approved, our team will work with you to place a foster cat or dog that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.
During the foster period:
-
MARS provides guidance and support
-
Medical care is coordinated through MARS
-
You get to know the pet’s personality, needs, and routines
3. Take time ― Brief & Focused
Foster-to-adopt allows time for settling in, training, and adjustment. While not all pets are eligible for foster-to-adopt, some placements are structured to allow space for thoughtful decision-making while ensuring pets continue moving toward permanent homes.
Foster-to-adopt periods are designed to be brief and focused. Extensions are not guaranteed and are only considered in rare circumstances, with guidance from our training and veterinary teams.
4. Make It Official (If You’re Ready)
If you decide to adopt, we’ll walk you through next steps, including:
-
Adoption paperwork
-
Adoption fee
-
Post-adoption support
If adoption isn’t the right fit, our team will work with you to determine next steps that are best for both you and the pet.
