While construction on our new shelter is underway, we will be operating from a temporary location. Foote Field, Furnace Brook Road, Cornwall Bridge. While we are getting settled there, please call before visiting 860-672-6346. If you don't reach us via phone, you can also contact us via email at manager@littleguild.org or susan@littleguild.org.
FOSTER FAQs
Why should I foster?
Fostering saves lives and it is one of the most rewarding volunteer opportunities that we have to offer. Whether bottle feeding infant kittens, caring for animals during medical recovery, or taking in an animal whose issues are exacerbated by being kenneled, opening your home to provide temporary care in a stress-free and loving environment gives every foster pet a better outcome.
Are there rules & regulations
As with all aspects of rescue our primary goal is to maintain loving, safe and healthy environments for all of our animals. Potential fosters to be 21 years old, and live within an approximate 30 minute drive to our Cornwall location to be able to get to and from us with the animal for visits, and to pick up supplies. The steps to becoming approved include filling out an application and following the individualized guidelines provided for each animal by our staff. When fostering dogs, this will include a visit to get to know the animal and a session overseen by our certified trainer.
What does the foster family pay for?
The Little Guild provides all necessities for the foster animal including but not limited to: medication as needed, food, litter, equipment such as leashes and litter boxes as required. The foster family needs to provide: A healthy and safe environment, transportation to and from The Little Guild and/or vet appointments as needed, socialization and cuddle time to help teach the animal about positive family and pet relationships, exercise and positive stimulation to help them develop trust and love, feedback to The Little Guild about progress and concerns. If the foster family WISHES to provide some of the necessary items for their foster animal, that is acceptable and appreciated. It is not at all required though, we are so appreciative of you opening up your loving home, and of the work and time you put into the animal - that alone is a gift that we cannot repay or quantify!
How long does the animal stay with me?
Foster contracts are initially done on a 2-month basis, but every animal and foster has unique needs and timing will be discussed prior to placement. Our goal is to always make the best matches possible for the most successful foster placements, and length of stay will be always be determined on an individual basis.
What if I'm going on vacation?
We of course understand that being a foster does not preclude you from being able to carry on with a normal life. We will board your foster if you are going away or in the event of a personal emergency. For planned boarding we would ask for a 1-week notification so that we are able to plan accordingly to accommodate your foster.
What if it's not working out?
You are not required to continue to foster an animal if you feel that it's not a good fit for you. However, if we do not have an immediate alternate foster home or space for the animal at our facilities we will work on moving your foster out as quickly as we can, but ask for your understanding and patience.