Providing Emergency Temporary Shelter for Pets in Need

When crisis strikes, love shouldn’t be left behind

Life can change in an instant, and sometimes families face situations where they need temporary help caring for their beloved pets. Humane Society of West Michigan’s PETS Network (Providing Emergency Temporary Shelter) is here to provide a safety net when it’s needed most.

​Our program offers short-term foster care (up to 30 days) for pets whose owners are experiencing temporary crises—such as homelessness, domestic violence, hospitalization, or natural disasters. The primary goal of this program is to reunite pets and their owners after 30 days—so pets and their people can stay together long-term.
🚨 Policy Update – Effective July 1, 2026

Beginning July 1, 2026, pets must be at least 6 months old and already spayed or neutered in order to participate in any of our outreach programs that include pet food assistance, vaccine clinics and emergency foster program. Sign-ups for vaccine clinics will be limited to pets that meet these requirements. If your pet is not yet spayed or neutered and you would like assistance getting them fixed, please contact our team for available resources and support.
🐾 I Need Help with My Pet
If you are experiencing a crisis and temporarily cannot care for your pet, HSWM’s PETS Network may be able to help.

Who is eligible:

  • Pet owners facing short-term challenges, such as: medical emergencies or hospitalization, escaping domestic violence, Loss of housing or homelessness, natural disasters or other emergencies
  • Must be able to reunite with your pet within 30 days
  • Must be working with a social services agency (if applicable)
  • Must have proof of housing for the end of the 30 day period

What the program provides:
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  • Safe, temporary foster care with loving volunteers
  • Veterinary care and supplies while your pet is in foster care
  • Reunification with your pet after 30 days
❤️ I Want to Help by Fostering
Our PETS Network depends on dedicated emergency foster families who are willing to open their hearts and homes to pets in need. 

​What we provide to fosters:

  • Training on foster best practices
  • All food, supplies, and veterinary care
  • Support from HSWM staff
  • The knowledge that you are keeping pets and families together

What we need from fosters:
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  • A safe, loving home for up to 30 days
  • Flexible schedule and quick response time 
    • Crisis situations tend to arise suddenly. HSWM may need a quick answer regarding a potential placement in your home.
  • Willingness to care for pets who may be stressed from sudden changes

Other Resources & Assistance