Foster a Philly Dog: Save a Life and Change Your Own

Philadelphia’s open-intake animal shelter, ACCT Philly, is currently at full capacity — and they need your help. Right now, dozens of dogs are waiting behind kennel doors for a chance at safety, stability, and a second shot at life. And ACCT's ability to save more lives depends on folks opening their homes. One of the most powerful ways you can make a difference? Become a foster.

Why Fostering Matters

When the shelter is full, lives are at risk. By opening your home to a dog in need, you’re not just giving them a temporary place to stay — you’re giving them a chance to live. Fostering even one dog helps reduce overcrowding, prevents euthanasia, and gives that dog time to decompress, heal, and find their perfect forever home.

Pups like Bryant are looking for homes - permanent or foster - right now at ACCT Philly!

Who Can Foster?

Anyone with a little space and a lot of love. Whether you live in an apartment or a house, have a yard or not, there’s a foster dog who’s a good fit for you. ACCT Philly provides supplies like food, crates, and veterinary care — you provide the care, cuddles, and structure.

Fostering can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on your schedule. There’s no long-term commitment, and ACCT Philly’s team will work with you to match you with a dog that fits your lifestyle.

It’s Easier Than You Think

You don’t need to be a dog expert. You just need to be willing. ACCT Philly’s foster program walks you through the process and offers support every step of the way. Whether you’re fostering a shy pup who needs to learn what it means to feel safe, or an energetic goofball who just needs time to burn off energy and show off their personality, your home can be their bridge from shelter stress to forever happiness.

Many foster dogs are already house-trained, crate-trained, and used to home life — they just need a place to stay while waiting for adoption. And you get all the joy of having a dog, without the lifetime commitment.

How to Get Started

• Visit www.acctphilly.org/foster to learn more and fill out a quick foster form.

• Follow @acctphilly on Instagram and Facebook to see urgent dogs needing foster.

• Share posts, tag friends, and spread the word. The more eyes on these dogs, the better their chances.

  
  

Fostering is Life-Saving — and Life-Changing

There’s something incredibly special about watching a shelter dog relax into a home for the first time. The moment they curl up on a soft bed, or nudge your hand for affection — it’s unforgettable. Fostering changes them. And it will change you too.

Right now, dogs at ACCT Philly need us. If you’ve ever thought about fostering, now is the time. Be the reason a Philly dog gets a second chance.