volunteer  >     volunteering      fostering
 
 
make a new friend

Consider opening your home to an animal seeking a temporary foster home. Each year the ARL takes in hundreds of animals — cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, and rodents  who need additional time, rest, recuperation, medical care or socialization before ready for adoption. We depend on our dedicated foster families to fill this gap and give these animals a quiet respite away from the hubbub of shelter life.

Currently, our greatest need is fostering of cats and kittens, but we always welcome interest in fostering other animals. The reward for both you and the animal in your care can be substantial.

cats and kittens
Adult cats can sometimes succumb to stress-related upper respiratory illness. These animals are in the most need of foster homes, as many of these cats have been beloved family members and fall into despair, cease eating and become sick.

dogs and puppies

Older dogs who need a quiet place to wait for adoption and young puppies who need help with socialization and potty training are also in need of foster homes.

small animals

Many rabbits, rats and guinea pigs also need help getting used to being handled and often make great strides in a short period of fostering.

birds

Due to temperature fluctuations in the shelter, birds do not fare well, and with the numbers of birds we care for increasing each year, the need for foster homes has grown.

Fostering is a fun and rewarding way to volunteer as a family and volunteer from home!  Training is required and provided through the shelter. For more information, send an e-mail to aeagan@arlgp.org, or visit us in person.
to complete a foster profile
Other Ways You Can Help

can't foster an animal?

There are several other ways to show your support for the Animal Refuge League.

Donate items on our wish list. Every month, the Animal Refuge League is in need of vital supplies including food, bedding and cleaning supplies. View our wish list and donate items that help us provide for our animal guests.
view our wish list

Hold a donation drive.
A donation drive is a wonderful opportunity to get kids involved in a valuable community service. Find out how to orangize a donation drive in your community.
organize a donation drive

Volunteer.
Do you have great interpersonal skills with people and animals? Consider a volunteer opportunity with the Animal Refuge League.
learn about volunteering


 
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The Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland
449 Stroudwater Street    Westbrook, Maine 04092  
mailing address: P.O. Box 336   Westbrook, Maine 04098

© 2007 The Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland
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tel 207-854-9771
open Mon-Fri 11a-5p  |   Sat 10a-4p
closed Sundays and major holidays