Foster

RACC's foster program is vital to our life-saving mission. We are always in need of foster homes for our underage kittens and puppies, pregnant/nursing moms and litters, hospice animals, and animals with medical and/or behavioral needs. While our available animals are generally adopted faster in the shelter environment, we do occasionally need fosters for healthy dogs and cats. RACC provides all supplies for foster homes, including medical care and food. RACC fosters are required to transport animals for medical care and routine vaccinations, as well as maintain open communication with shelter staff.

Becoming a Foster

If you are interested in becoming a RACC foster, please email [email protected].

Casual Friday Foster Program

Did you know that local businesses can foster an available RACC dog or cat for the day? This is a great way to give shelter pets a break from the kennels and some extra attention while promoting them (and your business) on social media to help get them adopted. It's a win-win for everyone! If your place of business is interested in participating in our Casual Friday Foster program, please email [email protected].

Virtual Foster Program

This initiative offers a unique way for everyone to get involved, even for those who can't physically foster animals. Through this program, you can promote our adoptable pets on your social media platforms, reaching your friends, family, and followers to connect them with loving families. Local participants are invited to visit their virtual foster pets at our facility during designated visiting hours. Additionally, you can take these pets on outings in RVA by scheduling with our Virtual Foster Coordinator. For those outside RVA, the state, or even the country, you'll receive delightful content such as pictures and videos of your virtual foster pet, perfect for sharing with your network. To join our Virtual Foster program, please email [email protected].

Thanksgiving Foster Program

No one should spend Thanksgiving alone. Invite one of our shelter dogs or cats to Thanksgiving dinner and have the best holiday ever! In order to participate, fosters will need to be home for the holiday and not traveling. The timeframe is typically the week of and after the Thanksgiving holiday. Our greatest need is always for fosters without other pets at home, and fosters who plan on adopting their foster dog or cat get first pick. If you're interested in becoming a RACC Thanksgiving Foster, please email [email protected].