Fostering Saves Lives!
As the only shelter on Kaua‘i, KHS faces overpopulation, making our foster program crucial for saving vulnerable animals. By fostering, you provide care, structure, and socialization, while KHS covers food, medical care, and support.
Fostering is a commitment, but it’s life-changing. Structure and boundaries are key to success, and knowing your limits ensures a positive experience for both you and the animal.
Foster Opportunities
Puppies & Kittens
Time Commitment 2-4 weeks
Some kittens and puppies arrive too young for adoption. With year-round kitten and puppy season in Kaua’i, we need fosters to help them grow—from bottle babies to nursing moms and older litters on solid food.
Mental Health Support
Time Commitment 2-4 weeks, varies by case
The shelter environment can be stressful and make it hard for some animals to put their best paw forward. Foster homes give those struggling in the shelter a chance to decompress and show their true personalities.
Medical Support
Time Commitment 4-6 weeks, varies by case
The dedicated veterinary team at KHS devotes time to a variety of medical needs encountered by shelter animals. Sick, injured, and elderly animals heal best in foster homes where they don’t have to experience the stressors of the shelter.
Foster FAQs
Who can be a foster parent?
Almost adult or family can foster animals for KHS! There are no housing requirements, inspections, or special certifications required. We will work with your specific needs to match you with the right animal for your home and experience level!
Foster volunteers must be over 18 years old.
Do I have to buy the foster supplies?
Nope, KHS happily provides all the foster supplies you will need upon foster animal pickup. Whenever you are running low, please stop by the shelter during open hours and our front desk will get you restocked.
I work full time. Can I still foster?
Yes!
Even though our youngest animals need around-the-clock care, most foster eligible animals are more independent and can be alone for multiple hours. We will match you with a foster assignment that works with your schedule and availability.
What if I feel it's not a good fit?
No problem! You are not obligated to keep your assigned foster pet if things aren’t working out. Get in contact with the Foster Coordinator to express your concerns and coordinate a date to return your foster pet to the shelter. We respect your opinion and feelings as a foster parent and know that the right foster placement gives animals the best chance for success!
If you feel unsafe or feel like the current situation is too overwhelming, bring the animal back and we can discuss other options for you!
Can I post my foster pet on social media?
YES
Social media and community engagement are some of the best ways to get your foster adopted into their future forever home! If you do post about them, just be sure to tag @kauaihumane on TikTok, and @kauaihumanesociety on Instagram and Facebook!
Can I adopt my foster pet?
Yes! Sure! But you still have to go through the adoption application process. Similarly, if you have family or friends that want to adopt, they will need to go through the adoption process.
Please email customerservice@kauaihumane.org to let them know you’re interested in adopting your foster.
Can I foster just one kitten or puppy?
To support healthy behavioral development in kittens and puppies under 8 weeks of age, we always try to send them to foster in pairs or litters. If we do have a singleton we strive to match them with an age-appropriate buddy, if possible. Please be prepared to take at least 2 kittens or puppies when you foster with KHS.
What happens to my foster if I am going out of town?
Your foster team will either coordinate a different foster placement or schedule your animal to return to the shelter for the days you are off island. Please do not attempt to travel to other islands with your foster pet.
If you know someone who can watch your foster animal while you are away, please connect them to your foster coordinator so we can maintain accurate records and provide assistance if needed. We are here to support our fosters so you can enjoy your time away!
I can't foster right now but would love to support the program. How can I Help?
Donations are what keeps this program running! Donated items are crucial for our animals’ wellbeing. Take a look at our Amazon Wishlist to see which items you can contribute to Kaua`i Humane Society’s foster program. Mahalo for your support!
Hear From Our Fosters
“After three days, Artie was literally a different dog—affectionate, his puppy teething turned into kisses, he even stopped tugging the leash. I want to see EVERYONE adopted, so yes I will continue fostering.” – Lyra, KHS Foster Volunteer
“You will always receive unconditional love from the pets you foster, no matter how long you have them,” – Brenda, KHS Foster Volunteer