Kittens and cats often arrive at the Humane Society of Ventura County (HSVC) requiring special attention and care. Some are too young to be adopted, display social behaviors that need to be addressed, or simply struggle adapting to their new life in our shelter. Despite the cause or challenge, a dedicated team of trained volunteers serve as Foster Caregivers who support HSVC’s mission to protect, serve, and ultimately save more lives.

If you are interested in serving our feline furriends by providing love, care, and safety to high-risk and priority kittens and cats, please fill out the Interest Form on this page.

To become a Foster Caregiver for HSVC's animals, you must:

• Submit a Foster application and be approved by our Foster Coordinator, Cheney C.
• Read, understand, and sign HSVC’s Hold Harmless Agreement and Feline Foster Caregiver Manual (provided once approved).
• Attend HVSC’s orientation and Foster Caregiver training.
• Have a home check completed by our Foster Coordinator or Humane Officers.
• Participate in enrichment and socialization activities to benefit animals.
• Notify HSVC if any severe behavior issues occur, or if any concerning or severe health issues arise.
• Be willing to return the animal(s) to HSVC upon request.
• Update HSVC Foster Coordinator weekly on how the animal is adjusting.
• Be willing to make the animal(s) available to meet prospective adopters.
• Ensure children under 14 years old complete Fear Free Shelter training.

Presently, only high-risk, and special needs kittens and cats are available to be fostered. Food, medical care, and basic supplies will be provided. Felines will be vaccinated, wormed, spayed/neutered, and given flea treatment. Animals under 8 weeks of age or under 2 pounds will be altered later.

Watch this video to learn about HSVC’s foster program!

We highly recommend the Kitten Lady, whose website is a treasure trove of tutorials on caring for felines. 

Learn More

Anyone keen to know more about Bottle Babies, Caring for Growing Kittens, Keeping Kittens Healthy, and Feral Felines & Kittens Found Outdoors will benefit from watching her webinar here:

Watch the Webinar