Fostering (Temporary Housing a Pet) Information
Fostering is one of the most impactful ways you can help save a pet’s life. 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.
Fostering FAQ Slides - Collage

Click here to read a brochure with more information. 

Ways to Foster

Short Term: Help a pet out in a pinch! Usually over the weekend.

Vacation: Start date – End date. A great way to get your feet wet and test the fostering waters. Vacation fosters are called upon when long-term foster homes go out of town.

Long Term: Foster until adopted. Some pets are adopted quickly, while others wait for just the right home.

Specialized: Behavioral, Hospice, Medical…

Whelping: Love puppies? Help a momma through the miracle of birth and life!

Contact Us: If any of these options intrigue you, let’s chat! Email us at placement@midwestanimalrescue.org

You Are Needed

  • No matter your schedule, home type, or lifestyle—you matter! Whether you have pets or not, a fenced yard or not, are very active or not active, you can foster.
  • The more foster homes we have, the more animals we can save.
  • We will work with you to fit your needs.

You Are Supported

Fostering with MARS means you’re not alone. We provide:

  • Supplies (food, bed, toys, bowls, etc.)
  • Dog-to-home matching
  • Question support phone line
  • No-cost foster dog obedience training
  • A mentor with a seasoned foster
  • After-hours medical ER line

At MARS, we emphasize community. Our mission is supporting both pets and people.

We will work with you to break down any barriers that may be keeping you from helping and making an impact.

When we work together, we accomplish amazing things!

Questions and Answers

Can I meet the dog/cat first?
Yes! We’ll chat with you and figure out what’s best for you and the pet in need.

What if things don’t work out at home?
We’ll 100% work with you. Sometimes life just happens. We’re here to help.

Do I need a fenced yard?
No. Some dogs require it, but we can work with you.

How can you let them go?
It isn’t easy. However, it’s worth it—saving a life again and again.

If I fall in love, can I adopt?
Yes! Many fosters adopt their pets. We call these “foster successes.”

More questions?
Email us at placement@midwestanimalrescue.org or message us on Facebook/Instagram: @midwestanimalrescue

Fostering Helps You Too!

  • Spend time with a pet without long-term commitment
  • No required fees; supplies are available
  • Socialize your resident pets and kids
  • Help your mental positivity—you’re making a difference
  • Meet new people and experience new things

How do I get started?

Click the blue button below! Fill out the application and our team will get in touch. If you've adopted or fostered with us before, simply send us an email at placement@midwestanimalrescue.org. No need for an additional applicaiton. Easy!