So what are you waiting for?
Snuggles, silliness, fun, and friendship await!
Foster
The Heidi Gebauer Memorial Foster Program
" To foster an animal is a great gift and an act of kindness. The animals hold a special place in your heart and you make a world of difference in their lives. "
Open Your Heart. Open Your Home. Foster a Pet.
A shelter can be a noisy, stressful place, especially for shy or owner surrendered animals that have never been in a shelter . By opening your home to a foster pet, you’re giving them a safe, quiet space to relax, learn, and grow. Your love helps them prepare for their forever home.
Fostering also helps save more lives. Every animal placed in a foster home frees up space in our shelter for another pet in need.
About The Heidi Gebauer Memorial Foster Program
The Heidi Gebauer Memorial Foster Program is named in loving memory of Heidi Gebauer, whose deep compassion for animals continues to inspire everything we do.
At Hinsdale Humane Society, the Heidi Gebauer Memorial Foster Program is thoughtfully designed with both animals and families in mind. We offer support and flexibility to fit your lifestyle – whether you can foster for a weekend, a few weeks, or even longer.
We have animals in need at all care levels – from bottle-fed kittens and moms with babies, to more complicated medical cases and pets who just really need a break from the shelter. Whether you’re a seasoned foster or brand new, we’ll help match you with the right pet for your home.
We're With You Every Step of the Way
Fostering doesn’t take much — we provide everything you need to be successful.
From food and toys to crates and behavioral guidance, we’ve got you covered.
You’re never alone on this journey. Our team is here to support you with:
- Access to staff via email and emergency lines
- Clear medical instructions and care resources
- Ongoing communication and behavior tips
- Quick answers to any questions you may have
When you foster with us, you’re part of a team committed to saving lives — together.
Cat, Dog, and Other Pet Fostering FAQs
Thinking about fostering a dog, cat, or other pet?
Below are some frequently asked questions to help you get started with this lifesaving journey.
What does it mean to foster a pet?
Fostering means providing a temporary, loving home for an animal before they are adopted. It’s one of the most personal and impactful ways to help homeless pets.
While dogs and cats are most commonly in need, we sometimes also need foster homes for rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, or other small animals.
Why do animals need foster care?
Animals may need foster care for many reasons, including:
- Shelter space is limited – Fostering frees up room for others in need.
- They’re scared or stressed – Some pets struggle in noisy shelter environments.
- They’re too young – Orphaned kittens or puppies need bottle-feeding and close care.
- They’re recovering – Pets healing from illness, injury, or surgery need quiet recovery time.
- Senior animals that should not be in a shelter
- Hospice animals that need a loving home for the time they have left.
Whether it’s a few days or a few months, your home can be a safe place where an animal can heal and prepare for adoption.
Would I be a good foster caregiver?
Yes! If you love animals and want to make a difference, fostering could be the perfect fit. It’s also:
- Flexible – Work around your schedule and home life.
- Short-term – Great if you’re not ready for a long-term pet commitment.
- A learning opportunity – Test the waters if you’re thinking of adopting.
It does take heart: you’ll care for them, love them—and eventually, let them go to a forever home. But that goodbye means you’ve helped save a life.
How much time does fostering take?
That depends on the animal’s needs. Some may just need a cozy place to relax, while others (like bottle babies or shy pets) need extra feeding, socialization, or training.
When you sign up, we’ll work with you to match animals to your availability and experience.
What skills do I need to foster pets?
No expert skills are needed—just patience, love, and a willingness to learn. We’ll provide training, support, and resources to help you succeed.
You’ll also have access to:
- Behavior and medical guidance
- Supplies like food, crates, and toys
- A support team ready to answer questions
Some animals may need extra time or training, like shy cats learning to trust, or dogs practicing basic cues. But every bit of love you give brings them closer to their forever home.
Ready to find foster opportunities?
Complete our foster application or contact us at [email protected].
Let’s save lives together!
