3rd August, 2024
Session 1: Dog Foster + More Track
Check-in
Attendees will check in and enjoy complimentary coffee while networking with shelters, other fosters, and shopping with pet-related exhibitors.
Event Kick-off + Shelter Panel
Foster Summit officially kicks off! A panel featuring representatives from Greater Houston shelters will share insights about their foster programs and needs.
Kitten Lady's Workshop (This workshop spans all 3 morning sessions.)
Join us for a 2-hour workshop led by Hannah Shaw, renowned as the "Kitten Lady." This comprehensive session provides a thorough overview of the care and protection of neonatal kittens. Whether you're a beginner or looking to elevate your care skills, Hannah's workshop covers all things kitten in an accessible and engaging manner. Learn best practices and gain valuable insights into fostering and nurturing our tiniest feline friends!
Session 1: Dog Foster + More Track
Foster Pet Parenting: Navigating the Emotional and Practical Aspects
Clarify the purpose of pet fostering and debunk common misconceptions, such as the belief that fostering means not forming bonds with pets. Learn strategies to cope with the emotional challenges of letting go and discover the satisfaction of helping pets find loving homes. Understand the financial aspects of fostering, including typical expenses covered by rescue organizations. Join fellow foster parents in sharing experiences and addressing any concerns or myths you've encountered.
Advanced Caretaking
Take your foster skills to a new level with Advanced Caretaking! Learn how to handle wounds and injuries, controlling bleeding, managing fractures or sprains, and administering subcutaneous fluids. Gain confidence in safely administering medications to pets, such as pills, liquids, and injections. Explore caring for pets in special circumstances, including those that are heartworm positive and those with ringworm, ensuring their comfort and well-being.
Dogs 101
Join us to learn the essentials of fostering dogs! We'll cover crate and potty training, highlighting the importance of consistency and patience. Get tips on introducing foster dogs to your resident pets, and explore the key stages of development and socialization to ensure happy, well-behaved dogs.
Session 2: Dog Foster + More Track
Emergencies + First Aid Training
Discover how to differentiate between urgent and non-urgent pet situations, knowing when immediate veterinary care is necessary. Learn basic first aid for cats and dogs, assemble a pet first aid kit, and prepare for both health emergencies and extreme weather events.
Dogs 101
Join us to learn the essentials of fostering dogs! We'll cover crate and potty training, highlighting the importance of consistency and patience. Get tips on introducing foster dogs to your resident pets, and explore the key stages of development and socialization to ensure happy, well-behaved dogs.
Get Them Adopted!: Marketing Your Foster Pet
Learn how to create standout profiles for your foster pets! We'll cover tips for taking quality photos and videos that showcase your pet foster in the best light, assessing and describing temperament and needs, and sharing compelling stories about their rescue journey. Discover strategies for effective social media posts and promoting your foster pet in public (when applicable) by interacting with people you meet.
Session 3: Dog Foster + More Track
Emergencies + First Aid Training
Discover how to differentiate between urgent and non-urgent pet situations, knowing when immediate veterinary care is necessary. Learn basic first aid for cats and dogs, assemble a pet first aid kit, and prepare for both health emergencies and extreme weather events.
Body Language and Behavior
Join us to learn how to read the body language of dogs and cats, helping you understand their moods and interact with them effectively. Discover how to identify stress signals, manage fear and anxiety with calming techniques, and build trust and strong bonds through positive interactions.
Get Them Adopted!: Marketing Your Foster Pet
Learn how to create standout profiles for your foster pets! We'll cover tips for taking quality photos and videos that showcase your pet foster in the best light, assessing and describing temperament and needs, and sharing compelling stories about their rescue journey. Discover strategies for effective social media posts and promoting your foster pet in public (when applicable) by interacting with people you meet.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch on your own. There are over 10 restaurants within a 5 minute walk of the conference center.
Kitten Lady Keynote Speech
Join us for an inspiring keynote address by Hannah Shaw, renowned as the "Kitten Lady." Hannah will share her passion for fostering and discuss why it is so crucial for saving lives. Her talk will be uplifting and relevant to fosters of both cats and dogs, providing insights and motivation to continue making a difference. Whether you are new to fostering or a seasoned caregiver, Hannah's address will leave you inspired and empowered to support and nurture animals in need.
Networking with Shelters and Shop with Exhibitors
During the networking hour, attendees can connect with shelters to sign up to foster with an attending shelter, choosing a specific animal to provide a temporary home. The first 100 dog foster sign-ups and the first 100 cat foster sign-ups will receive a complimentary foster essentials kit. Plus, enjoy raffle pulls for exciting prizes!
Three Little Pitties
Caitie's Foster Fam
Norris Conference Center 816 Town & Country Blvd. # 210 Houston, Texas 77024