New San Mateo County Program Provides Foster Care for Pets While Owners Receive Treatment

SAN MATEO - San Mateo County Health has launched a program that provides temporary care for pets while their owners receive inpatient mental health, substance use or medical treatment. The initiative removes a barrier that often prevents people from seeking care.

The Foster Wellness Program was developed in response to a recurring issue: individuals eligible for inpatient care often decline treatment due to lack of trusted care options for their pets.

For many clients, pets provide emotional support, stability and motivation to seek help. The program places pets with trained volunteers who provide safe, temporary homes, allowing owners to focus on treatment.

"For many of the people we serve, pets are family," said Behavioral Health and Recovery Services director Dr. Jei Africa. "There can be many obstacles to seeking behavioral health care, and this is one we have seen repeatedly. By ensuring pets are safe and cared for, we help clients worry less about their animal companions and focus on their treatment."

County Health's Animal Control and Licensing program manages the foster placement process, including screening volunteers, inspecting homes and coordinating supplies and veterinary support. The team matches pets with appropriate foster homes to ensure a smooth reunification once treatment is complete.

"We're here to protect that bond and make sure families, including their animal companion, can be reunited safely," said Lori Morton-Feazell, chief of Animal Control and Licensing.

Approved volunteers receive necessary supplies, including food and veterinary care support. County staff manage placements, logistics and reunification. The County also partners with local dog walkers and boarding kennels to support care needs when foster homes are not immediately available. The program maintains confidentiality for both clients and foster caregivers.

One foster caregiver described the experience of welcoming a cat - affectionately known as Miss Green Eyes - into their home through the program: "The first day she was bouncing off the walls with glee. She settled in very well and was inseparable from us. Her affectionate nature is a joy. Her original owner has peace of mind, a pet has been saved, and our lives have been enriched beyond measure."

The program is recruiting volunteers to foster pets in San Mateo, San Francisco, Alameda and Santa Clara counties. All animal lovers are welcome, especially those who can foster dogs and cats. To volunteer, send an email to [email protected].

Faizus Amin
Public Information Officer
San Mateo County Health
Press Contact: 650-867-1661
Press Email: [email protected]