Foster Code of Ethics & Terms and Conditions for Fostering
Chesapeake Animal Services
FOSTER CODE OF ETHICS
Fosters play an essential role in our organization. By volunteering your time and talents, you make a difference in the lives of animals at the shelter. As a CAS Foster, you represent the City of Chesapeake. Your conduct and interaction with staff, other volunteers, and the public should always be professional and courteous. Your commitment to shelter animals and staff should reflect integrity, honesty, and compassion.
As a Chesapeake Animal Services Foster, I pledge to:
- Offer courtesy and respect to all people.
- Hold myself responsible for my personal safety, the safety of the public, and the safety of shelter animals.
- Report all injuries immediately.
- Respect and follow shelter policies and procedures.
- Ask for assistance in the event of uncertainty.
- Acknowledge and adhere to my physical and emotional limits.
- Honor my service commitment to the Foster Program.
- Communicate openly and honestly.
- Promote a positive service environment through my attitude and behavior.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
- I understand that fostering does NOT transfer ownership of the animal to me and failure to return upon request constitutes theft.
- I agree to provide temporary care until the due date given, or until I'm requested to return the animal. If I can no longer foster the animal, I must provide 48-hour notice to CAS.
- I understand that I am the only person permitted to provide care for and to transport the animal.
- I understand the animal must reside at the residence listed on the application, and as required by law, I must update CAS of any changes in my address, contact information, or pets and people in the home.
- I understand that I am required to contact CAS for treatment involving medical attention. Any treatment by an outside vet will not be reimbursed unless authorized in advance by CAS.
- I agree to follow all training and medical recommendations made by CAS.
- I understand animals may have medical condition(s) that could be contagious to other pets. Any medical expenses incurred related to fostering are my responsibility.
- I understand CAS cannot guarantee that any animal fostered will be a good fit for my home.
- I understand and take full responsibility for the animals' actions and release CAS from any liability for damages that may be incurred because of fostering.
- I agree to care, feed, socialize, and provide enrichment for the animals consistent with policy, procedure, and staff instruction.
- I understand fosters cannot go to boarding facilities, dog parks, or groomers without written permission.
- I understand I much notify CAS IMMEDIATELY if animals escape, are lost, stolen, or die.
- I understand a breach of these terms and conditions may result in CAS pursuing legal action to enforce this contract.
