A fresh approach to fostering larger dogs has transformed the Jeffersonville Animal Shelter in Indiana, enabling it to surpass the no-kill threshold by expanding community involvement and support.
- New dog foster program launched with Best Friends support
- 91% save rate achieved, up from 84% in under two years
- Faster placements and better foster support for dogs with special needs
What happened
Jeffersonville Animal Shelter introduced an innovative dog foster program in collaboration with Best Friends Animal Society to tackle challenges faced by large dogs in shelters. Before the program, the shelter struggled to get big dogs into foster homes due to concerns about their size and behavioral challenges. With funding, marketing, and community engagement, the shelter successfully placed 30 dogs in foster care within just 15 days—ahead of their initial goal.
The foster program quickly gained momentum, and in the first three months, the shelter placed 91 dogs into foster homes. This surge doubled their foster care numbers compared to the previous quarter. The shelter was able to provide necessary supplies, veterinary care, and training support to foster caregivers, which boosted retention and allowed more dogs to thrive outside the shelter environment.
Why it feels good
This program changed perceptions around fostering big dogs, showing the community that it can be both manageable and deeply rewarding. By creating foster-to-adopt opportunities, potential adopters had more time to find the right fit with their new pets, leading to better outcomes for both dogs and families.
The increase in foster placements and better care led to a dramatic rise in the shelter’s save rate, climbing from 84% to 91% in less than two years. Dogs like Cricket, who suffered from mobility and behavioral problems upon arrival, received the one-on-one care and attention they needed in foster homes, resulting in healthy, happy dogs ready for loving permanent homes.
What to enjoy or watch next
Animal lovers can watch how foster programs continue to evolve nationwide to support no-kill goals. Jeffersonville’s success offers a blueprint for other shelters aiming to reduce shelter stress and increase live outcomes for animals in need.
You can also follow stories of individual dogs like Cricket who thrived thanks to foster care, highlighting the joy and impact of giving vulnerable pets a second chance. Considering becoming a foster caregiver yourself can be a transformative experience for you and a shelter pet.