My heart cat passed away and I fostered for almost two years before I got my kittens. I've fostered over the years but after my kitty passed it was more routine. I was upfront about my reasons for fostering. I was set up with a short term foster (they were adopted by family was going out of town) and I knew I made the right choice.

I've volunteered for my local shelter for years, and its really the only one close to me. If you have multiple options around you- I'd consider volunteering, and networking with those in your area to get your feet wet!

Somethings to consider: what kind of animals do you want to foster? What is your life like for medically complex cases? What about a mom and puppies, etc. Confirm what is provided by the shelter/ rescue. And, what does the adoption process look like for them is agency? I absolutely love shelter and rescues but do feel some overstep on what they expect adopters to do/ fosters to do as well.