SAGA seeks foster homes as shelter nears capacity

SAGA Humane Society is appealing for more foster homes as the number of cats and dogs in its care approaches the shelter’s capacity. A SAGA representative said on September 23rd that the organization had secured 12 foster homes since its September 16th appeal to the community. Despite that response, more temporary placements are needed.
SAGA reported having 94 animals in its care, including at least 10 newborns. The organization can accommodate approximately 100 animals, leaving limited room for those who may need shelter in the coming days. Foster homes would help ease pressure on the facility while giving animals more individual attention.
The nonprofit provides shelter, medical care, and adoption services for animals on the island. It also offers vaccinations and subsidized veterinary services, conducts spay and neuter campaigns, and promotes humane education. Alongside its shelter work, SAGA’s clinic treats patients who sometimes require hospitalization. Caring for those patients while meeting the daily needs of shelter animals adds to staff demands.
SAGA said some volunteers are currently out of the country, while others are already fostering animals and cannot take in more. The organization has therefore asked residents who have the space and time to consider opening their homes to an animal, even for a short period.
A representative said a placement lasting about one week would free up space at the shelter and allow SAGA to help another animal in need. Some of the most vulnerable animals requiring constant care have already been placed in foster homes.
For an animal, a foster home can offer a quieter setting, more one-on-one attention, and opportunities to become comfortable around people. Those experiences can be especially helpful for animals awaiting adoption. Temporary care for newborns can also give shelter staff more room to attend to the other cats and dogs at the facility.
SAGA encourages residents interested in fostering or adopting to contact the organization for more information about the animals currently in its care and what a placement would involve. Even a brief stay in a foster home could make a difference for an animal and help the shelter respond to the next one needing care.
To learn more, contact SAGA at 510-226-3266 or sagahumanebze@gmail.com.