Your Questions, Answered

Adoption Questions

  • The truth is, a "free" pet is rarely free if you're a responsible pet owner. Whether you adopt, purchase, or receive an animal for free, you'll still need to pay for important veterinary care such as vaccinations, deworming, microchipping, spaying/neutering, and routine health checks. These costs can quickly add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

    When you adopt from a rescue, many of these services have already been completed or are included in the adoption fee, often at a cost far below what you would pay on your own. Rescue animals are also assessed for their health and temperament, helping set both you and your new pet up for success.

    By adopting, you're not only gaining a wonderful companion, you're also helping fund the care of other animals in need and supporting efforts to reduce pet overpopulation. Your adoption fee goes directly back into saving more lives.

  • We recommend first visiting our "Are You Ready to Adopt?" page and then reviewing either our Cat Adoption Process or our Dog Adoption Process page to ensure you're prepared for the commitment of pet ownership. Once you feel ready to adopt, please complete our online adoption application.

    After your application has been reviewed, we will contact suitable applicants to discuss the animal and arrange a meet-and-greet. Our goal is to find the best possible match for both the animal and their future family.

  • Our adoption fees help cover the essential care each animal receives while in our care. This includes:

    • Veterinary examinations and necessary medical treatment

    • Age-appropriate vaccinations

    • Spay or neuter surgery before adoption

    • Deworming and parasite treatment as needed

    • Additional medical care required while in our care

    • FeLV and FIV testing for cats six months of age and older

    Every animal receives love, attention, and care while we work to find them a safe and loving forever home.

    Our adoption fees help us continue rescuing, caring for, and finding homes for more cats and dogs in need. When you adopt from Toe Beans Animal Rescue Society, you're not only welcoming a new family member, you're also helping us save another life!

  • Our adoption process can vary depending on the animal and the number of applications we receive. We take the time to review each application carefully to help ensure every animal finds the right forever home.

    Once your application is approved, we'll arrange an in-person meet-and-greet so you can spend time with your potential new family member. We ask adopters not to expect to take an animal home the same day, as we believe every adoption deserves thoughtful consideration and time to ensure it's the right fit.

    Our goal isn't simply to find homes for our animals, it's to find the right homes for a lifetime of love.

  • No! At Toe Beans Animal Rescue Society, our priority is finding the best possible match for each animal, not simply approving the first application we receive.

    We carefully review every application and consider each animal's personality, needs, and compatibility with your household, including children and other pets. We want to make sure it's the right fit for both you and your potential new family member.

    Submitting an application first doesn't guarantee an adoption, and we may receive multiple applications for the same animal. We appreciate your understanding as we work to find each animal the loving, forever home they deserve!

  • Absolutely! Renters are welcome to apply to adopt through Toe Beans Animal Rescue Society. We just ask that you have permission from your landlord to have a pet in your home before applying.

    During the application process, we may ask for confirmation that pets are permitted and whether any restrictions apply, such as the number, size, or type of animals allowed.

  • Yes! We are happy to consider adopters from outside our local area. However, all potential adopters must travel to meet the animal in person before an adoption can be approved. We do not ship animals or complete adoptions without first meeting the adopters face-to-face. This helps ensure the best possible match for both the animal and their new family.

  • Sometimes, despite everyone's best efforts, an adoption may not be the right fit, and that's okay. Our priority is always the safety and well-being of our animals.

    If you're experiencing challenges with your adopted pet, please contact us first. We're happy to discuss your concerns and help explore possible solutions.

    If the adoption truly isn't working out, we require that the animal be returned to Toe Beans Animal Rescue Society rather than rehomed, sold, or surrendered elsewhere. We want every animal to remain safe and ensure they receive the care and support they need.

    Adopting is a lifelong commitment, but we understand that unexpected circumstances can arise. You can reach out to us for guidance, and we'll work with you to determine the best next steps for your pet.

  • We understand that adoption fees can feel like a lot upfront, but they help cover the care each animal receives while waiting for their forever home. This includes veterinary examinations, vaccinations, spay or neuter surgery, deworming, parasite treatments, FeLV and FIV testing for cats six months and older, and any additional medical care needed.

    Rescue animals can require a lot of time, love, and medical attention before they're ready for adoption. Our fees help us recover some of these costs so we can continue rescuing and caring for more animals in need.

    And honestly, if the adoption fee seems high, you might be surprised by what routine veterinary care costs! Even one basic vet visit for an examination, vaccines, or other routine upkeep can add up quickly. Adoption is just the beginning of the financial commitment that comes with responsible pet ownership, and we want every adopter to be prepared for the ongoing costs of keeping their new family member happy and healthy.

    When you consider what's included in the adoption fee, it really isn't that much for a lifetime of love. You're not just adopting a pet; you're welcoming a loyal companion, a new family member, and years of memories into your life.

    Every adoption fee also helps us make room for another animal who needs a safe haven. By adopting, you're helping us change more than one life, and for that, we're incredibly grateful!

  • No. Most municipalities have bylaws that prohibit cats from roaming freely off their owner's property. If your cat is found wandering, it may be picked up by animal control, and you could be subject to fines or impound fees.

    More importantly, free-roaming cats face many dangers, including traffic, predators, loose dogs, disease, harsh weather, toxic substances, and cruel individuals. Even the most street-smart cat can be seriously injured or killed in an accident.

    We strongly encourage adopters to keep their cats indoors, where they are safest. If your cat enjoys being outside, consider supervised outdoor time, leash training, or building an affordable catio so they can enjoy fresh air safely.

    As a rescue, we work hard to ensure every animal in our care is safe, healthy, and loved. When you adopt from us, we expect that same commitment to their safety and well-being for the rest of their lives.

  • Yes! We do. Our barn cat program is called the Working Whiskers Rodent Control Program.

    Working Whiskers cats are typically not suited for traditional indoor homes but thrive in barns, shops, acreage properties, warehouses, and other safe outdoor environments where they can provide natural rodent control while receiving food, water, shelter, and care.

    Please visit the Working Whiskers Rodent Control Program page for more information, program requirements, and how to apply.

Foster Questions

  • Fostering means providing a temporary home for a rescue animal until a permanent adoptive home is found. Foster families play a vital role in helping animals transition from difficult situations into loving homes.

  • If you're interested in fostering, please complete our online foster application. Once we receive and review your application, we will contact you to discuss your experience, household, and the types of animals you may be interested in fostering.

  • Not necessarily. We welcome both experienced and first-time fosters. Our team will provide guidance and support to help you succeed.

  • The rescue covers approved veterinary expenses while the animal is in foster care.

  • In many cases, yes. We will help determine which foster animals may be a good fit for your household. Foster animals must be kept separate from your resident pets during the quarantine and decompression period to help keep everyone safe and healthy.

  • The safety and well-being of our animals is our top priority. A criminal record check helps us ensure that foster homes provide a safe and secure environment for the pets in our care. Fosters have unsupervised access to rescue animals and may be entrusted with veterinary care, supplies, and adoption meet-and-greets. Conducting a criminal record check is a standard screening step that helps protect both the animals and our organization.

    Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify someone from fostering. Each situation is reviewed individually, and we focus on factors that may impact the safety and welfare of the animals.

  • You can obtain a Criminal Record Check or Police Information Check through your local police service or RCMP detachment. We can provide a volunteer letter that may qualify you for a reduced volunteer rate or fee waiver.

  • Foster families provide a safe and caring environment, daily care, socialization, transportation to veterinary appointments when needed, and lots of love and patience.

  • Toe Beans Animal Rescue Society provides veterinary care, vaccinations, spay/neuter services, food, toys, and ongoing support. Anything your foster needs we provide.

  • The length of a foster placement varies depending on the animal's needs and how quickly a suitable adoptive home is found. Some animals may only need a few weeks, while others may require longer-term care.

  • Yes. We work with foster families to find animals that are a good match for their experience, lifestyle, household, and comfort level.

  • Yes, provided that pets are permitted under your lease or rental agreement. We may request confirmation from your landlord.

Surrender Questions

  • Yes! But please fill out our online surrender form click here for cat surrenders and here for dog surrenders so we can learn more about your pet's medical history, behavior, and needs. Intake is based on available space, foster homes if needed, and resources.

  • A surrender fee may apply to help offset veterinary and care costs.

  • No. We are committed to giving every animal the opportunity to find a safe, loving home and will never euthanize an animal simply to make space. Humane euthanasia is only considered in rare circumstances where an animal is suffering from a severe medical condition with a poor quality of life, or in cases of extreme behavioral issues where all reasonable rehabilitation and placement options have been thoroughly exhausted. Every situation is carefully evaluated with the animal's welfare, safety, and quality of life as our top priorities.

  • Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee acceptance of every surrender request. Our ability to take in animals depends on available space, resources, and the specific needs of the animal.

  • The timeline varies based on available space and the number of animals currently in our care. In some cases we could take them right away in other cases there may be a waiting list.

  • We will ask for details about your pet's age, medical history, vaccination status, spay/neuter status, behavior, personality, and any special needs. Photos are also very helpful but not required.

  • No. Once a surrender contract has been signed, ownership of the pet is transferred to Toe Beans Animal Rescue Society. At that point, the pet is no longer legally owned by the previous owner, and all decisions regarding the animal's care, placement, and adoption become the responsibility of the rescue.

    Our adoption team carefully screens all applicants, and selects the home that best matches the pet's needs, personality, and long-term well-being. Our goal is to find every animal a safe, loving, and permanent home where they can thrive.

  • Once a surrender agreement has been signed and ownership has been transferred to the rescue, the surrender is considered permanent and the pet becomes the property of Toe Beans Animal Rescue Society.

Volunteer Questions

  • Volunteering with Toe Beans Animal Rescue Society is a chance to make a real difference in the lives of animals who need a little extra love, care, and a second chance. From helping with daily animal care and keeping our spaces clean to assisting with events, fundraising, and community outreach, every volunteer plays an important role in our mission.

    As a volunteer, you'll become part of a compassionate team working together to give cats and dogs the safe haven they deserve while helping them find loving forever homes. You'll make a difference not only in the lives of the animals, but also in the community we serve.

    Whether you're an animal lover looking to give back, hoping to meet like-minded people, or simply wanting to make a positive impact, there's a place for you at Toe Beans!

    A little of your time can mean the world to an animal waiting for their second chance. You might be the person who makes their day brighter, helps them feel safe, or plays a part in finding them the family they've been waiting for.

    Interested in joining our team? We'd love to have you be part of the Toe Beans family! Fill out a volunteer application here.

  • Complete our online volunteer application and tell us about your interests and availability.

  • There are lots of ways to get involved with Toe Beans Animal Rescue Society! Whether you love hands-on animal care, enjoy working behind the scenes, or prefer helping out at community events, we have opportunities for people who want to make a difference.

    Some of our volunteer opportunities include:

    • Animal Care: Help with feeding, socializing, enrichment, and making sure our cats have clean, comfortable spaces.

    • Cleaning & Laundry: Help keep our animal areas fresh, tidy, and sanitary by cleaning rooms, washing bedding, and restocking supplies.

    • Fundraising & Events: Help organize and run fundraising events, adoption events, raffles, auctions, and community activities.

    • Community Outreach: Help spread the word about our rescue, share information, and connect with local businesses and supporters.

    • Photography & Social Media: Help showcase our animals, create content, and share their stories to help them find loving homes.

    • Donations & Supplies: Help sort donations, organize supplies, and keep track of the essentials our animals need.

    • Building & Maintenance: Assist with approved projects, repairs, and general upkeep to help keep our rescue running smoothly.

    • Foster Care: Open your home to cats or kittens who need a temporary safe place while they wait for adoption.

  • Not necessarily. Some volunteer positions require experience, while others do not. We will help match you with a role that fits your skills, interests, and comfort level.

  • Yes. We require a criminal record check for volunteers to help ensure the safety of our animals, team members, adopters, and the community we serve. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from volunteering, and applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

    Our goal is not to exclude people, but to responsibly protect the animals and people who rely on our organization.

  • You can obtain a Criminal Record Check or Police Information Check through your local police service or RCMP detachment. We can provide a volunteer letter that may qualify you for a reduced volunteer rate or fee waiver.

  • Volunteer age requirements may vary depending on the role. Some positions may require volunteers to be at least 18 years old, while younger volunteers may participate with parental supervision.

  • We appreciate any time you can give. Some volunteers help occasionally at events, while others volunteer on a regular weekly schedule.

  • Volunteering does not guarantee employment; however, it is a great way to gain experience, learn new skills, and become more involved with animal welfare.

Donation Questions

  • You can donate through our website, at fundraising events, during special campaigns, or by contacting us directly, in person at the rescue, or by e-transfer to accounts@toebeansrescue.ca. We also greatly appreciate physical donations from our Amazon Wish List, which can be shipped directly to us or dropped off at the rescue. Every donation helps us provide food, shelter, medical care, and a second chance for animals in need.

  • Yes! Toe Beans Animal Rescue Society is a registered Canadian charity, and eligible donations may qualify for a charitable tax credit for individuals or a tax deduction for businesses. Official donation receipts are available for eligible gifts of $20 or more.

    To request a tax receipt, please include your full name and mailing address with your donation. For e-transfers, you can add this information in the message or notes section.

    Thank you for supporting our mission to give every cat and dog a safe haven and a loving home!

  • Commonly needed items include cat and dog food, litter, pee pads, cleaning supplies, toys, beds, and gift cards.

  • Donations help cover veterinary care, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgeries, food, litter, supplies, enrichment, and other expenses related to caring for rescue animals.

  • Yes! You can choose to direct your donation toward:

    • Veterinary care

    • Food and pet supplies

    • Spay/neuter programs

    • Emergency medical cases

    • General rescue operations

    If you prefer, you can make a general donation and we will use it where it is needed most at the time.

  • Absolutely! Every dollar helps. Small donations add up quickly and can help provide food, litter, vaccinations, medications, and other essential care for our animals.

  • Yes! We gratefully accept many types of pet-related donations, including food, litter, toys, treats, cleaning supplies, bedding, carriers, and gift cards. Please check our current wish list or contact us before donating.

  • Absolutely! You can become a special part of an animal's journey by sponsoring a cat or dog in our care. Your support helps provide essential care, food, medical treatment, and a safe place to stay while they wait for their forever home.

    We offer animal sponsorships for a minimum of three months, with the option to continue your sponsorship for as long as you wish. You can choose an animal that has captured your heart and make a meaningful difference in their life.

    Visit our Toe Beans Community Sponsorship page to learn more about sponsorship opportunities and how you can become a special part of an animal's journey. Every sponsorship helps us give animals the care, comfort, and second chance they deserve!

  • Yes. Memorial and tribute donations are a meaningful way to honor a loved one, celebrate a special occasion, or remember a beloved pet while helping animals in need.

  • Absolutely! We welcome support from local businesses, corporations, and community partners who want to make a difference in the lives of animals in need.

    There are many ways to partner with Toe Beans Animal Rescue Society, including financial contributions, donations of supplies and building materials, sponsoring an animal or room, and donating prizes for our raffles and auctions.

    We love building lasting relationships with businesses that share our passion for animal welfare and want to make a positive impact in our community. Eligible donations may qualify for an official charitable donation receipt.

    Interested in partnering with us? Visit our Toe Beans Community Sponsorship page on our website to explore sponsorship opportunities, or contact us at info@toebeansrescue.ca. We would love to hear from you!

General Questions

  • You can reach us anytime through our Facebook page or by email at info@toebeansrescue.ca. We are currently working on obtaining a phone line to better assist our supporters, adopters, and fosters. We aim to respond to all inquiries as quickly as possible, typically within one business day.

  • Yes! All cats and dogs adopted through Toe Beans Animal Rescue Society are spayed or neutered before going to their forever homes. We believe spaying and neutering is an important part of responsible pet ownership and helps prevent unwanted litters.

    We ensure every animal is fixed before adoption, so you can welcome your new family member home knowing this important step has been taken care of.

    Our goal is to give every animal a healthy start and help reduce pet overpopulation in our community!

  • We rescue both cats and kittens as well as dogs and puppies. Most of our adult cats are housed at our rescue building, where they receive daily care and can meet potential adopters. Kittens, dogs, and puppies are placed in foster homes, allowing them to receive individualized care and socialization in a home environment while they wait for their forever families. This also ensures that no dogs or puppies need to stay at the rescue facility.

  • Yes! You are welcome to visit our adult cats at the rescue and spend time getting to know them before deciding which cat may be the best fit for your family. If you find a cat you're interested in, you can then submit an adoption application.

    Our kittens, dogs, and puppies are typically cared for in foster homes rather than at the rescue. For these animals, we recommend submitting an adoption application first so we can review it and arrange a meet-and-greet if it appears to be a good match.

    You can also meet many of our adoptable animals at adoption events. If you meet an animal you're interested in, you can complete an adoption application afterward and our team will guide you through the next steps.

  • Follow us on social media and check our website regularly for new arrivals and adoption spotlights.

  • We rely on adoption fees, donations, fundraising events, sponsorships, grants, and the support of our community to continue helping animals in need.

  • There are so many ways to make a difference, even if adopting isn't an option for you! Every bit of support helps us care for animals in need and continue our mission of giving every cat and dog a safe haven and a loving home.

    Here are a few ways you can help:

    • Make a donation: Financial contributions help cover veterinary bills, medications, food, litter, and daily operating expenses.

    • Donate supplies: We always appreciate items like cat litter, pet food, cleaning supplies, and other essentials our animals need.

    • Become a sponsor: Sponsor a specific animal, help support one of our rooms, or become a community partner through our Toe Beans Community Sponsorship page.

    • Volunteer your time: Help with daily care, cleaning, events, fundraising, and other important tasks.

    • Become a foster home: Open your home temporarily to an animal who needs a safe place to stay while waiting for adoption.

    • Support our fundraisers: Participate in our raffles, auctions, and fundraising events.

    • Shop our wishlists: Purchase much-needed supplies directly from our wishlists.

    • Spread the word: Like, share, and comment on our social media posts to help our animals reach more potential adopters and supporters.

    You don't have to adopt to save a life. Whether you donate a dollar, share a post, volunteer an hour, or sponsor an animal, every act of kindness helps us make a difference.

  • If you find a stray cat or dog, please contact your local animal control agency, municipal shelter, or humane society first. In many areas, found animals must go through the appropriate stray-hold process to give their owners a chance to find them before they can be placed with a rescue or adopted.

    If you're unsure what to do next, your local animal services team can guide you through the proper steps.