Dominique
Every year, the Haags Dierencentrum takes in hundreds of cats and dogs. Although the staff and volunteers at the shelter are ready to help day in and day out, some animals only truly blossom in a home environment. To give these animals the best start, the HDC is always looking for enthusiastic foster families in and around The Hague.
Running a shelter is a team sport, and foster families play an indispensable role. “Some cats just need that little bit of extra attention and peace that is difficult to offer in a busy shelter,” explains a staff member. “By taking an animal into your home temporarily, you help them socialize, build trust, and reduce stress. This greatly increases the chance of a successful, permanent rehoming.”
From bottle-fed kittens to seniors
The care needs in the shelter are very diverse. The HDC is therefore looking for different types of foster homes:
Mother cats with kittens: For a safe base, peace, and the initial socialization of the little ones.
Motherless (bottle) kittens: For the truly dedicated. These little ones need feeding every two hours, intensive care, and plenty of warmth.
Care cats: Older cats or animals with medical problems who recover much faster in a quiet home.
Dogs (coming soon): Behind the scenes, we are currently working hard on setting up a foster network for dogs. Soon, dog lovers will also be able to sign up for this!
Fully supported
If you sign up as a foster family, you certainly won’t be doing it alone. The Haags Dierencentrum fully facilitates the placement. Foster families receive expert advice and intensive guidance from the shelter staff. In addition, all necessary supplies such as food, scratching posts, cat litter, blankets, and possibly a crate are provided free of charge. Medical care and check-ups via the shelter veterinarian are also fully covered by the HDC.
A smile and a tear
Temporarily fostering a shelter animal is an incredibly rewarding task, but it also requires a sense of responsibility. Foster families must take into account intensive care, dealing with potentially difficult behavior or illness, and of course the inevitable goodbye when the animal is ready for adoption. “It can be quite a struggle when your guest goes to a permanent owner, but the knowledge that you have given the animal a fantastic start gives enormous satisfaction.”
Will you help?
Do you have a big heart for animals, a stable home environment, and enough time to surround a temporary four-legged friend with love? The HDC would love to hear from you!
👉 Sign up today via the registration form on our website and make a difference for an animal in need.
