The Urgent Need for Fosters at San Antonio Animal Care Services

In the heart of San Antonio, a pressing issue looms over the local animal shelter. “We have so many dogs and cats here at the shelter that are in need,” said Lisa Norwood, Public Relations & Outreach Manager at San Antonio Animal Care Services (ACS). The statistics paint a stark picture: in July 2024 alone, ACS reported over 1,200 dogs and cats available for adoption, while nearly 300 animals were euthanized due to lack of space. This alarming trend underscores the critical need for community involvement, particularly through fostering.

The Shelter’s Challenge

Every week, hundreds of pets find their way to the ACS Shelter located on Highway 151. As the influx of animals continues, the shelter faces the daunting challenge of providing adequate care and finding forever homes for these pets. The reality is that many of these animals require time to decompress and adjust to a home environment before they can be adopted. This is where the role of foster caregivers becomes invaluable.

The Role of Fostering

“Fostering is basically when people decide that they’re willing to help the shelter by becoming temporary pet parents,” Norwood explained. This initiative allows animals to experience a home environment, which is crucial for their emotional and behavioral development. While not everyone may be in a position to adopt a pet permanently, fostering offers a meaningful way to contribute to the welfare of these animals.

Norwood emphasizes the profound impact fostering has on both the individual animals and the shelter as a whole. “One of the things that our fosters always tell us that helps them get through the process is that they understand they’re helping not only save that pet’s life but the lives of the pets that are coming behind them that now have kennel space,” she said. This chain reaction of saving lives is a powerful motivator for many fosters.

Educational Opportunities for Fosters

To support potential fosters, ACS recently held a class as part of their Sit, Stay, Learn series, focusing on the benefits of fostering. This course provides insights into what fostering entails and the perks of participating in the program. “We provide food, we provide all of the supplies. If there’s a crate that’s needed, litter boxes for cats, and certainly, we provide all of the medical care,” Norwood stated. This comprehensive support system alleviates many concerns potential fosters may have about the responsibilities involved.

Moreover, fostering allows the shelter to learn more about each animal’s unique personality. “Every single animal has their own personality. The fostering process lets us get that much closer to finding out who this dog or who this cat is, which in turn helps us get them adopted,” Norwood explained. Understanding an animal’s behavior and temperament is essential for matching them with the right forever home.

A Call to Action

With animals constantly arriving at the shelter, the need for fosters remains urgent. “I guarantee you, once you start, you’re not going to want to stop,” Norwood encourages. This sentiment reflects the rewarding experience many fosters have, as they witness the transformation of animals in their care and the joy of finding them loving homes.

For those interested in becoming a foster parent, ACS welcomes new and prospective pet fosters. However, it is important to note that all companion animals should be left at home during orientation sessions. Residents can reach out via email at acsfoster@sanantonio.gov to sign up and receive more information about upcoming orientation courses.

Conclusion

The plight of animals in shelters is a community issue that requires collective action. By fostering pets, residents of San Antonio can play a crucial role in alleviating the burden on ACS and providing these animals with the love and care they desperately need. As Lisa Norwood aptly puts it, fostering not only saves lives but also enriches the lives of those who choose to open their hearts and homes to these deserving pets. Together, we can make a difference—one foster at a time.