Ways to Volunteer:
Foster
Helping Paws of Southern MN is a foster based rescue located in Owatonna MN serving Southern Minnesota. We are ALWAYS looking for more foster homes and if you are interested please fill out a Foster Application below.
Before You Start:
Things to consider:
- Is your household appropriate for fosters?
- Is everyone you live with accepting of foster pets?
- Do you have a space for them that is safe and easy to clean?
- Are you able to quarantine them from other animals?
- Does your schedule allow for their care? Depending on the age and health of the cats, you may need to be available as often as every 2-3 hours for kittens.
- Will you be able to arrange care for them when you are unavailable?
What you need:
- to be at least 18 years of age or have a consenting adult apply for you.
- A small, climate controlled space with a comfortable temperature and a door that closes, where they can be quarantined from other animals.
- Enough time to foster them until they are able to be available for adoption. This can be anywhere from weeks to months depending upon each situation.
- Lots of love and time to socialize/play with them. The more attention you can lavish on them, the more socialized they become and the easier it is to find them permanent homes.
- Do remember that all food, litter, bedding, kennels, play pens, toys, medical care and supplies will be covered by Helping Paws of Southern MN while they are in your care.
- You will need to be able to transport them to and from the vet clinic to get necessary vetting done. Remember all vetting and medication including flea and tick treatment is provided by Helping Paws of Southern MN.
- Once you have joined our foster family you will be a part of our network so any questions or emergencies you may have during fostering we will be available to help you at all times. No need to feel alone because we are all in this together!
Saying Goodbye:
- Giving up a foster pet can be difficult emotionally. However, knowing you were part of saving a life and helping a kitten get a great start to life and find a loving home is more rewarding than we can describe.
- Most of our foster families say the first is the hardest and then you look forward to the excitement of the next animal that needs you.
- Some foster homes become permanent homes, and that's OK, too!
Volunteer Transport Drivers:
We always need help when it comes to driving our critter to and from appointments in our care! If you're interested please fill out our Transport Waiver below.
To be considered as a Transport Driver you must:
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Have a valid driver's license and insurance.