In a bid to support local shelters brimming with pets, Austin Community College District (ACC) is reaching out to its community members to temporarily house cats and dogs over the spring break, according to their latest news release. The call for fosters is part of a hands-on learning experience provided by ACC's Veterinary Technology program, where students gain practical skills by taking care of these animals throughout the semester.
The arrangement has always been a symbiotic one, local shelters get some relief from the continual influx of animals, and students get to sharpen their skills on real, breathing creatures that need attention, vaccines, and love, among other necessities. Yet, these aren't any regular shelter pets, as every one of them comes to the fosters vaccinated, microchipped, and medically prepped with heartworm prevention and flea medication for their stay, and the dogs are even leash-trained and socialized for optimal human companionship.
Suitable foster parents will not be left to fend for themselves either; ACC is providing all necessary resources including food, toys, blankets, leashes, and more necessary for the 10-day foster period. The program encourages those with previous experience in animal care to apply, though no formal training is required to take part. This initiative not only offers relief to local shelters but also provides these animals with a warm, loving environment during the break.
The opportunity doesn't just end with a temporary stay. Once the animals return to ACC's capable hands after spring break, anyone who feels a deep connection with their fuzzy guest will have the chance to make the arrangement permanent, as ACC allows the fostering parties the first right to adoption at the end of the semester. The deadline for those eager to open their homes is looming fast, with applications closing Monday, March 4. To learn more or to view the fostering application, click here.
