The SMAS is an open admissions shelter. This means we take in every stray animal from Mahaska County that walks through our doors regardless of their health or temperament. Some of these animals may not be ready for adoption yet because of their age, health, or behavior and we rely greatly on volunteer foster homes to help us give these special animals the time and extra care required to get them ready for adoption. ​

 

At any given time, we may have several animals in need of a foster home, examples of animals who are candidates for foster homes are:

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• Mother cats/dogs with litters

• Orphaned puppies or kittens requiring bottle feeding

• Puppies or kittens that are too young for adoption (under 8 weeks old)

• Dogs or Cats with health conditions requiring special care

• Dogs or Cats that are not adjusting to a shelter environment

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We do not typically send healthy, adoptable animals to foster homes, unless circumstances require us to do so. If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, we encourage you to fill out a foster application. Once approved, we will keep your information on file and contact you when a foster opportunity is available.