Reviewing Foster Applications

Application Sources

Foster applications typically come from:

• Your organization's public foster application form
• Walk-in applicants entered by staff
• Transfer from other foster programs
• Referrals from current volunteers

All new applications appear with "pending" status until reviewed by staff.

Finding Pending Applications

1. Go to Fosters in the main menu
2. Filter by Pending status
3. Or look for yellow "Pending" badges in the list

Reviewing Applications

1. Click the applicant's name to open their profile
2. A yellow alert appears with approve/decline buttons
3. Review all the information provided
4. Make your decision

What to Review

Contact Information

• Complete name, email, phone
• Address within your service area

Preferences

• What animals they want to foster
• Age groups they're comfortable with
• How many they can handle

Experience

• Previous pet ownership
• Foster experience
• Special skills or training

Living Situation

• Type of home
• Permission to have animals (if renting)
• Space for fostering

Notes

• Read any additional comments
• Look for concerns or questions

Making Your Decision

To Approve

• Click Approve in the yellow alert
• Status changes to "Active"
• They can now receive foster assignments

To Decline

• Click Decline in the yellow alert
• Status changes to "Suspended"
• They remain in your system but cannot foster

Note: The system doesn't automatically notify applicants. You need to contact them separately.

After Processing

Approved Fosters

• Contact them with good news
• Schedule orientation if needed
• Discuss available animals
• Set up first assignment

Declined Applications

• Contact them about the decision
• Provide feedback if appropriate
• Suggest other ways to help
• Keep records of communication

Incomplete Applications

For missing information:

1. Note what's missing
2. Contact the applicant
3. Keep as "pending" until complete
4. Follow up if no response

Red Flags to Watch For

• Vague or inconsistent answers
• No landlord permission (if renting)
• Very limited availability
• Unrealistic expectations
• Previous surrender history
• Can't meet basic requirements

Adding Notes

During review, you can:

1. Click Edit on the profile
2. Add notes about your observations
3. Document any concerns
4. Save for future reference

General Guidelines

Good foster candidates have:

• Stable living situation
• Permission to have animals
• Reasonable availability
• Willingness to follow protocols
• Transportation for vet visits
• Realistic expectations

Tips for Success

• Process applications promptly
• Keep good records of decisions
• Be consistent in your criteria
• Communicate decisions clearly
• Offer alternatives when declining