Vacations and Emergency Trips for Fosters

Life happens—and when it does, we want to make sure both you and your foster pet are supported. Planning ahead for vacations, emergencies, or unexpected schedule changes helps ensure a smooth transition and reduces stress for everyone involved, especially the animal.

If you know you’ll be traveling or may need temporary help with your foster pet, please let us know as soon as possible. Early communication gives us the best chance to find solutions that keep your foster pet safe and comfortable.

Co-Fostering as a Support Option

Co-fostering can be a great solution during vacations or short-term emergencies. Sharing care responsibilities with another approved foster can:

• Provide flexibility during travel or busy periods

• Reduce stress for both fosters and the animal

• Allow the pet to remain in a home environment rather than returning to the shelter

Important:

• Please notify us before co-fostering begins and tell us who you plan to co-foster with so we can verify that both fosters are approved and eligible for that specific animal.

• When it’s time to swap foster homes, the new foster must notify us the day they take custody so we can update the foster status in our system.

PetSmart Adoption Centers

In some cases, foster pets may be eligible to temporarily stay at one of our Satellite PetSmart Adoption Centers. This option can help keep animals out of the shelter environment while still giving them visibility to potential adopters. Availability depends on the pet’s behavior, health, and current capacity.

Our PetSmart Everyday Adoption Centers are also a fantastic way to get your foster in front of hundreds of adopters every week.

📍 PetSmart Hulen – 4800 SW Loop 820
📍 PetSmart Alliance – 2901 Texas Sage Trail
📧 fwaccpetsmart@fortworthtexas.gov

Returning a Foster Pet to the Shelter

If co-fostering or a PetSmart placement is not possible, returning the pet to the shelter may be necessary. While this is not ideal, we understand emergencies arise. Providing advance notice allows staff to prepare appropriately and minimize stress for the animal.

If an emergency occurs and you must return your foster pet:

• Notify us immediately

• Share any updates on behavior, health, or routine

• Bring all supplies and medications provided

In Case of Emergencies

For sudden emergencies (illness, family emergency, housing issues, etc.), contact the foster team as soon as possible. Our goal is to work with you to find the safest and least stressful option for your foster pet.

CLICK HERE FOR OUR ARTICLE ON FOSTER EMERGENCIES

Clear, timely communication is essential to keeping animals safe and accounted for. By planning ahead, updating us on changes, and working together, we can ensure foster pets continue to receive the care and stability they deserve—even when life throws the unexpected your way.

Thank you for being a vital part of our foster community and for helping us save lives, one plan at a time.