(A) Almost Home offers a unique foster program. You as a potential adopter are given the opportunity to
foster an animal, for the specified time of 1-2 weeks, for the sole purpose of compatibility. It truly is a
privilege.
2. (Q) If I “foster-to- adopt, does it mean that I will automatically be able to adopt the animal?
(A) No, however most approved foster applicants are generally given priority to adopt providing that
you:
a) have been forthright in disclosing accurate, complete, and honest information on your application
including your veterinarian history.
b) abide by the foster guidelines – PLEASE READ YOUR FOSTER AGREEMENT.
c) demonstrate responsibility in caring for the animal.
3. (Q) If the animal does not work out in my home can I return him/her prior to the end of the
specified foster period?
(A) No, unfortunately Almost Home does not yet have a facility or enough volunteers to move and situate
animals between the times of our adoption events. When you sign your foster agreement you are agreeing
to this. The only exception is when specific prior arrangements have been made with a volunteer. If you
feel the animal is not getting along with your dog, cat, or family member, you must be responsible and use
a crate, keep them separate, or board at an approved kennel at your expense.
4. (Q) If my fostered animal gets sick, am I allowed to take him to my veterinarian at my
expense?
(A) Yes, most definitely. Part of being a responsible owner includes medical care. In addition, we would
encourage all potential adopters to have their fostered pet examined by their personal vet prior to
completing the final adoption. Please understand that Almost Home literally spends thousands of dollars
on veterinarian bills each month. Vet costs are our single biggest expense. For obvious reasons we can
not reimburse any unauthorized vet expenses.
5. (Q) What if my dog gets kennel cough or an upper respiratory infection?
(A) First of all, Don’t panic. Many of these animals come from less than ideal shelter and kennel
situations. Unfortunately it’s not overly uncommon. Even a dog that has received a bordetella vaccine
(kennel cough) with us may still contract it since the infection has an incubation period. Many cases of
kennel cough are self limiting and do not require treatment. The infection often needs to run it’s course
for approximately 7-10 days. If the animal has a temperature or stops eating, additional medication may
be required. You may indeed take the animal to the vet at your expense. We do not reimburse for
common kennel cough and/or upper respiratory infections. In some situations we may have medications
available to us through the rescue. Contact us by e-mail at almosthome1965@aol.com.
6. (Q) How much are the adoption donations and where does my money go?
(A) The adoption fees range from $200 - $250 for dogs and $130 for cats. An additional refundable $25
spay/neuter deposit (separate check please) will be required if the animal is not already altered. Once
your vet has completed the surgery, send us a copy of your receipt along with the form included in your
adoption agreement. You will then have the option to have your deposit returned or you can help other
animals in need by donating it. Every individual or volunteer adopting MUST pay an adoption fee without
exception. Please understand that this is the only way we can continue to save these helpless creatures.
Almost Home is a non-profit organization which receives no federal funding. We rely solely on private
donations and adoption fees. Your donation helps us continue our work. It helps us house, feed, and care
for our older and less adoptable animals.
7. (Q) What if I detect fleas on my fostered animal?
(A) Contact your personal vet or Almost Home at almosthome1965@aol.com for advice on which products
to use.
8. (Q) How do I contact Almost Home?
(A) By e-mail at almosthome1965@aol.com. Please do not call. We ask that you understand that we are
always flooded with e-mail inquiries and are working with a limited volunteer base. Our dedicated
volunteers also have full time employment and school obligations. We will do our best to address your
critical needs in a timely manner.
P.S. It warms our heart to hear all the happy stories and get those wonderful digital pictures from the
proud families.
9. (Q) How can I be of help to Almost Home in the future?
(A) Consider donating your time as a volunteer or make an occasional monetary donation to help us
continue saving other animals like the one you are adopting. We ask that you work in partnership with us
to save these helpless, homeless animals. We just can’t do it alone and we need your help.
