Save Lives by Fostering with BARCS
We can’t save the lives of animals in need without our supportive and loving fosters. These special people provide an invaluable, lifesaving gift for homeless cats, dogs and small companion animals.
Two Ways to Get Started:
Walk-Ins - If you are ready to foster, c'mon down to our shelter! Our staff will help you select an animal to take home as your foster. No need to sign up, just come right to our shelter at 2490 Giles Road, Baltimore, MD 21225. Foster walk-in hours are Monday - Friday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is parking on site. If you are ready at the end of the open house, you may select a foster that very same day.
New Foster Open House - If you're not sure about fostering yet, come down to one of our New Foster Open House informational sessions. These sessions are the perfect opportunity to ask questions! Open Houses are held twice a week on a weeknight and weekend afternoon, please click this link for upcoming date and to RSVP. Our shelter is located at 2490 Giles Road, Baltimore, MD 21225. There is parking on site. If you are ready at the end of the open house, you may select a foster that very same day.
*If you would like, you can review and fill out the Foster Form and Foster Home Contract ahead of visiting the shelter. Please note that filling out this form is only part of the process, you will still need to visit our shelter for a Foster Walk-In or New Foster Open House.
More Information About BARCS' Foster Program:
"Why does BARCS need fosters?" Here are some of the reasons we place animals into foster homes:
- Our shelter is out of kennel space and needs room for 30-35 new animals coming in each day
- Animals who need quiet time to recover from medical procedures
- Owned pets who are part of our emergency boarding program for families in crisis
- Animals not adjusting well in the shelter environment
- Puppies and kittens who are too young to be adopted yet
- To save lives!
The person responsible for the foster animal needs to...
- Be 18 years or older.
- Provide food, water, toys and lots of love.
- Communicate with BARCS Foster Coordinators about your foster’s physical and mental well-being.
- Transport your foster to and from veterinary appointments and adoption events, as appropriate.
- Work with BARCS to help market your foster animal for adoption (if applicable).
