FOSTER HOME CONTRACT

Revised 5.2.19

Date: __5/18/20202_________________

Name: ___Samantha Susson___________ Email: ___ssusson@gmail.com___________________

Address: 224 N Collington Ave

City, State, Zip: Baltimore MD 21231

Phone: Home Cell 6094172396 Work

This contract is made and hereby entered into, between Baltimore Animal Rescue & Care
Shelter (BARCS) and the above named person, hereafter referred to as the Foster Home. A
Foster Home is defined as a person/family that provides a temporary home for the animal(s) to
live in while waiting for a permanent adoption through BARCS. The purpose of this contract is
to ensure that the animal(s) receives the best possible care and treatment throughout its stay in
BARCS Foster program.

The Foster Home understands and agrees to abide by the following:

1. The Foster Home agrees to temporarily house and care for animal(s) belonging to
BARCS. The Foster Home understands and agrees that BARCS is the sole and rightful
owner of the foster animal(s).
2. The Foster Home fully agrees and understands that all decisions regarding the animal(s)
will be made by BARCS.
3. The Foster Home agrees to treat the animal(s) in a humane and loving way at all times,
and to make sure that anyone in the Foster Home temporarily caring for the animal(s)
will do the same.
4. The Foster Home agrees to provide adequate care to the foster animal(s) including, but
not limited to, keeping the animal(s) clean and well-groomed, feeding a wholesome,
name brand premium animal diet, (no generic or store brand foods) and providing fresh
water available at all times.
5. The Foster Home understands that they are responsible, at their own expense, for items
necessary for the housing and care of the animal(s) such as food, toys, leash, collar,
crate, formula, bedding, scratching posts, food and water bowls, litter box, etc. BARCS
will make an effort to provide items to Foster Homes as they become available.
6. The Foster Home agrees that the care of the animal(s) is not transferable. If for any
reason The Foster Home is unable to continue to house and care for the animal(s), they
must notify the Foster Coordinator and return the animal(s) to BARCS.
7. If BARCS requests the return of the Foster animal(s) for any reason, the Foster Home
agrees to return the animal(s) to BARCS within 24 hours of being asked to do so. If the

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 Foster Home is unavailable at the time of the request, the Foster Home agrees to make
the animal(s) available for pick up within the 24-hour period.
8. After a period of 3 months, if the foster animal(s) is not adopted, the Foster Home must
either adopt the animal(s), return the animal(s) to BARCS, and/or meet with the Foster
Coordinator about the plan for the animal(s) with an understanding that the Contract may
continue. Should these terms not be followed, the animal(s) may be automatically
adopted to the Foster and the Foster agrees to abide by the BARCS Adoption
Agreement. The Foster Agreement will then be terminated between BARCS and the
Foster Home.
9. The Foster Home agrees to make certain the animal(s) wears a BARCS ID tag and
current Rabies tag on its collar at all times. The collar must be checked regularly to
ensure that it fits properly as the animal’s weight and size changes. The animal(s) are
microchipped by BARCS prior to going into the Foster Home.
10. The Foster Home agrees that the animal(s) will reside inside their home, not outside,
and that the animal may not be left outdoors without adult supervision at any time.
11. The Foster Home agrees to notify BARCS immediately should the foster animal(s)
become lost or stolen.
12. The Foster Home is fully aware that any animal may bite. If the Foster Home
determines the animal(s) to be a biter, or a bite risk, they are to contact BARCS
immediately and return the animal(s) to BARCS.
13. The Foster Home understands that BARCS is not responsible for any damage to property
or persons caused by the animal(s) while in the Foster Home’s care. The Foster Home
understands that the behavior history and medical history of the animal(s) is unknown.
The Foster Home accepts liability for any and all incidents that occur in connection with
the fostering of BARCS’ animals. The Foster Home agrees to release BARCS from any
and all claims, known or unknown, now or hereafter, arising in connection with the
animal(s) while under the care of the Foster Home.
14. The Foster Home must have health insurance coverage for all members of the Foster
Home. If injury occurs due to the animal(s) and the Foster Home’s health insurance
does not cover, BARCS will not be held responsible.
15. The Foster Home agrees to confine the animal(s) to a crate or gate the animal(s) in an
appropriate space when it cannot be directly supervised by an adult.
16. The Foster Home understands that animals act differently in different situations and it is
their job to determine or learn the temperament of the animal(s) they are fostering in a
home environment. The Foster Home understands that BARCS does not know, and
cannot guarantee, the temperament or health of any animal(s) admitted to BARCS.
BARCS relies on a brief evaluation and the information provided by the previous
caretaker (if any). Therefore, the Foster Home agrees to use due caution when handling
the foster animal(s) and is responsible for informing the Foster Coordinator or Behavior
Manager of the temperament of the animal(s).
17. The Foster Home agrees to notify BARCS should any behavioral concerns regarding the
animal(s) arise. It is understood that only the best representatives of animals can be sent
out to the public for adoption. Behavior issues such as guarding, aggression, biting,
attacks on other animals or people, must all be reported to the Foster Coordinator
immediately.
18. The Foster Home agrees to never leave this animal(s) unsupervised with a child or

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 stranger.
19. The Foster Home agrees to keep their pets separate from the foster animal(s) for a period
of at least two weeks. The Foster Home will contact the BARCS foster coordinator to
review proper and slow introduction techniques with any resident pet(s) prior to doing
any introductions. After introductions, the Foster Home will supervise the animals at all
times and understands that it may take weeks, if not longer, for animals to become fully
integrated. The Foster Home agrees to not leave foster animal(s) and resident pets
together when unattended by an adult. If the animals do not get along, the Foster Home
agrees to keep them separated at all times. The Foster Home understands that there is a
risk to their pet(s) becoming ill from exposure to the foster pet(s) or receiving injury if
the foster animal(s) and resident pet(s) are allowed to interact with one another.
20. The Foster Home assumes the risk of introducing resident pets to a BARCS foster
animal(s) and releases BARCS of any responsibility for medical needs of resident pets
that may have been incurred as a result of exposure to a BARCS foster animal(s).
21. The Foster Home certifies that their own pets are currently licensed and up to date on all
vaccines and that they follow all pet laws in their county/city.
22. The Foster Home agrees that if they foster for any other rescue organization, they will
always follow all BARCS protocols herein described in this Contract. The Foster Home
agrees to keep the BARCS foster animal(s) separated from animal(s) of other rescue
organizations at all times. The Foster Home also agrees that any animal(s) with
contagious diseases (FIV/FeLV+, calicivirus, parvo, ringworm, etc.) may not be in the
residence at the same time as a BARCS foster animal(s). If they foster an animal(s)
with these diseases, they are subject to the quarantine period set forth by BARCS
protocol.
23. While the BARCS foster animal(s) is in the Foster Home’s care, the Foster Home agrees
to humanely work with the animal(s) on basic obedience and training. The Foster Home
understands the time commitment needed to provide adequate care and attention to their
foster animal(s).
24. The Foster Home releases rights to BARCS for any photos of foster animal(s) submitted
via email or social media.
25. The Foster Home grants permission for a representative of BARCS to visit the home
at any time to check on the wellbeing of this animal(s).
26. Should BARCS need to seek legal action against the Foster Home for any violations of
this Agreement, the Foster Home hereby agrees it will assume any and all attorney
costs, court fees, and any other legal fees incurred in the process of enforcing this
contract, or reclaiming the animal(s).
27. The Foster Home agrees to thoroughly read and abide by the Protocols and Procedures
in the Foster Manual and other foster resources provided. The Foster Home
acknowledges copies of the Manual and other resources are available on the BARCS
Foster Facebook page. Both hard and electronic copies may be requested by the Foster
Home.

I have reviewed the above Foster Policies, and agree to and understand the terms set forth above.
Initials____SS______

MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:

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 1. The Foster Home agrees to provide the pet(s) with proper veterinary care as is
recommended by BARCS. Routine vet care covered by BARCS includes, but
is not limited to, such services as vaccinations, spay, neuter, fecal exam and
available prescription medications necessary to care for the animal(s).
2. The Foster Home agrees to make an online appointment and bring the animal(s) to
BARCS for scheduled vet visits, vaccinations and preventatives, or if the animal(s)
appears sick and in need of medical attention (see Foster Manual for instructions on
scheduling an appointment or making an ER call).
3. The Foster Home understands that animals with medical needs may require multiple
visits to BARCS and/or other veterinary hospitals for follow up. The Foster Home agrees
to deliver the animal(s) to BARCS and/or other veterinary hospital, as deemed necessary
by BARCS Staff.
4. The Foster Home agrees to set up spay/neuter surgery as soon as the foster animal(s) is
eligible for surgery per their weight, health, and status.
5. The Foster Home ensures that the foster animal(s) receives all medications as
prescribed by BARCS and will administer no other medications without approval by
BARCS.
6. The Foster Home agrees to follow all necessary protocols and medical terms set forth by
BARCS or its partnering vets in terms of medication, crate rest, interaction with other
animals, and follow up visits.
7. The Foster Home must call the emergency line or send an email to foster@barcs.org
with the subject line “urgent” if the foster animal(s) appears sick or in need of
immediate medical attention. If the concern is not immediate, the Foster Home can
make an online appointment to bring the animal(s) in during normal business hours. If
an emergency occurs after normal business hours, the Foster Home agrees to contact
the emergency line immediately to be directed to an emergency facility. BARCS will
not reimburse the Foster Home for any expenses at another facility/hospital unless pre-
approved by an authorized representative at BARCS. Any costs associated with
veterinary care, not approved by the appropriate person, will be the sole
responsibility of the Foster Home. For approved care, all invoices should be
billed directly to BARCS or copies of invoices paid must be provided to the
Foster Coordinator for approval and submission for reimbursement.
8. All results from an offsite veterinary hospital visit must be e-mailed,
mailed or faxed to the Foster Coordinator’s attention.
9. The Foster Home understands that any decisions regarding veterinary care for foster
animal(s) are made by the BARCS medical team and/or the Program Manager. The
Foster Home understands that not all medical conditions will be treated due to
circumstances such as severity of condition and availability of resources. A decision to
euthanize a sick animal(s) may be made by the BARCS staff.

I have reviewed the above MEDICAL REQUIREMNTS, and agree to and understand the terms
set forth above. Initials_SS_________

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ADOPTION REQUIREMENTS:

1. The Foster Home understands that if it decides it wants to adopt the animal(s)
permanently, it must notify BARCS before a potential adopter makes plans to meet the
animal(s). BARCS will not cancel an adoption in progress. Should the Foster Home
decide to adopt, they must come to BARCS and sign the necessary contract and
paperwork.
2. The animal(s) will be adopted to a permanent home only with the approval of BARCS.
Any potential adopter must meet the animal(s) prior to finalizing their adoption. The
Foster Home will work with the Foster Coordinator, or the pre-approved adoption
applicant, to coordinate visiting the animal(s) at a convenient location. If the Foster
Home is contacted by anyone else interested in the foster animal(s), the Foster Home
agrees to check with the BARCS Foster Coordinator before proceeding.
3. The Foster Home agrees to handle all phone calls and e-mails to prospective adopters
promptly and professionally at all times. The Foster Home shall make themselves
available for visits.
4. Should a meet and greet be needed between a foster dog(s) and a potential adopter’s
pet(s), the Foster Home agrees to do the meeting at BARCS so that staff members
may supervise or conduct the interactions between the animals.
5. The Foster Home agrees to abide by the guidelines set forth by BARCS regarding
adoption procedures, including attending an adoption class and signing the adoption
contract at the time of the adoption. Should the Foster Home conduct their own
adoption class (upon approval by BARCS Program Staff or Management), the Foster
Home is responsible for collecting the appropriate adoption fee at that time. Paperwork
and adoption fees should be mailed or delivered to BARCS within one week of the
adoption to the Foster Coordinator or Program Staff. The Foster Home agrees that they
will not hand any BARCS animal(s) to an adopter prior to following the above
guidelines.

I have reviewed the above ADOPTION REQUIREMENTS, and agree to and understand the
terms set forth above. Initials__SS________

DOG FOSTERING REQUIREMENTS:

1. The Foster Home agrees to refrain from taking a new foster animal(s) on public outings
for a period of two weeks to allow it to acclimate to a new environment. After the two
weeks, if the Foster Home is comfortable, the animal(s) may be taken out to appropriate
locations. However, if the Foster Home has been working with the BARCS Training and
Enrichment Team, they must receive authorization from a team member after the two
week acclimation period before going on a public outing. If a BARCS representative
determines that the animal(s) should not be allowed to attend public events, the Foster
Home agrees to abide by that decision.
2. The Foster Home agrees that this animal(s) will never be allowed off a leash when
it is outdoors, unless it is in a secure fenced area that is at least four feet high. The
animal(s) may never be left outdoors if the Foster Home is not directly supervising
the animal(s).

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 3. Dogs are not allowed at any dog parks or off leash park areas.
4. The Foster Home agrees that the foster dog(s) may not interact with non-BARCS dogs
[outside of resident pet(s)] due to liability issues. Fosters may bring their foster dog(s) to
Play Group and allow them to interact with other BARCS dogs under the direct
supervision of the Behavior and Training Team. Pack Walks are permitted as long as the
foster dog(s) is on leash and refrains from any direct contact with other dogs.
5. The Foster Home agrees to have the dog crated when unattended and will not allow
the foster animal(s) loose when not at home or unable to have an adult supervise the
dog(s). This is for the safety of the foster dog(s) (possibly ingesting harmful
materials), resident pet(s), and personal belongings of the Foster Home.
6. The Foster Home agrees to never leave children unsupervised with the foster dog.
7. The Foster Home agrees that if resident pets and foster animals have been
introduced, they shall feed them separately.
8. The Foster Home agrees to use only positive training techniques when working with their
foster animal(s), i.e. clicker training. No shock collars are to be used at any time on a
BARCS dog(s) in foster care. The Foster Home agrees to follow training plans set forth
by the Training and Enrichment Team as appropriate.

I have reviewed the above DOG FOSTERING REQUIREMENTS, and agree to and understand
the terms set forth above. Initials__SS________

AGREEMENT TO TERMS OF CONTRACT:

I have received, read and understand the BARCS Foster Home Contract. I understand that upon
signing the Foster Contract, all future animals in foster care fall under the terms of this
agreement and any additional amendments deemed appropriate by BARCS. I agree to abide by
all terms set forth above with any and all BARCS animals in Foster Care. Initials SS__________

*Each item in this agreement stands alone.

Foster: BARCS Representative:

Print Name: Samantha Susson Print Name:
Signature: Samantha Susson Signature: _____________________________

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