Why Foster?

Fostering changes lives for both the pet and the person who opens their home. See why it matters here in Waco, TX.

Change a Life.
Maybe Even Yours.

Fostering is one of the most impactful ways you can help pets in need without a lifelong commitment. At the Humane Society of Central Texas (HSCTX), fostering is the heart of our mission. Since we no longer operate a physical shelter, every pet we support lives in a foster home until they’re adopted.

By opening your home temporarily, you provide a safe place for pets to heal, grow, and prepare for a brighter future. Whether you have a weekend or a few months to give, fostering helps save lives—and it makes a real difference.

Why Fostering Matters

Fostering changes the story for pets who may not thrive in a traditional shelter environment. It also creates a ripple effect that supports the entire community.

Fostering helps:

  • Young, sick, or stressed animals who need extra care
  • Local pet owners in crisis who need a temporary safety net
  • Overcrowded shelters and rescue partners across Central Texas

Fostering provides:

  • A low-stress, home environment where pets can learn, recover, and grow
  • The stability needed to improve behavior and increase adoptability
  • A chance to prepare each pet for a successful adoption experience

What Makes Fostering Unique at HSCTX

At HSCTX, foster care isn’t optional—it’s our core operating model. Every pet we help depends on a network of dedicated foster homes. That means fostering with us truly means the difference between yes and no for an animal in urgent need.

You provide the heart and the home.
We provide the rest, including:

  • Veterinary care
  • Food, toys, and crates
  • Training and behavior guidance
  • 24/7 support when you need it

A Win for Pets, People, and the Community

Fostering gives pets what shelters can’t: peace, routine, and real human connection. But it’s not just good for them—it’s good for us, too.

For the Pet:

  • Builds trust and socialization
  • Reduces anxiety and fear
  • Helps reveal their true personality

For the Foster:

  • A flexible, low-risk way to care for animals
  • A deeply rewarding emotional experience
  • A chance to be part of a pet’s transformation

For the Community:

  • Decompresses shelter systems
  • Prevents unnecessary surrenders
  • Connects neighbors through shared purpose

Want to Know More?

If you’re curious about how fostering works, what we provide, or who’s eligible, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to foster?

Orientation is the first step to joining our foster community. Flexible times and one-on-one options available.