Page last updated on June 12, 2024 at 2:41 pm
As a Foster it is your responsibility to monitor the health and wellbeing of your foster companion. It is important that you always contact BACC with any questions or concerns you may have about your foster.
Signs of Illness:
- Discharge from nose or eyes. Discharge color is important – basic rule of thumb is that if the discharge is clear then monitor, if it has color then notify the shelter.
- Lack of appetite
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Dehydration – we can show you how to check!
- Weight Loss
- Swollen conjunctiva – if it is extreme or longer than 24 hrs, notify the shelter as soon as possible.
- Coughing or sneezing
- Difficulty breathing – If you notice this, notify the shelter as soon as possible
- Fever
- Signs that warrant taking a temperature are: lack of appetite, depression, lethargy
- Any rectal temperatures of < 99 or > 103 require attention. We can show you how to check temperature or you can bring the animal in to the shelter for a check-up
- Any animal with fever for more than one day should see a veterinarian.
When it is an Emergency:
- Excessive bleeding
- Broken limbs
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever for more than a few days or very high (greater than or equal to 104)
- Unresponsiveness
- Serious change in personality
- Not eating or drinking for more than a day
During the hours we are open, call our emergency line (812) 349-3489 or come in and we will provide assistance.
If an emergency arises after hours, call Utilities dispatch at (812) 339-1444. Utilities will contact our Animal Control Officer on duty to provide assistance.
BACC Policies Regarding Medical Care for Foster Dogs:
BACC remains in charge of all medical care and treatment of foster animals.
We do basic health and behavioral screenings upon intake of all animals at the shelter. However, we can not guarantee that the animal will behave the same in a home environment, or that health issues will not arise once they are in your care. We test dogs for Heartworm, and cats for FIV and FELV at intake, as well as giving flea and tick preventative at intake.
We are required to follow state regulations for all animal bites. Whether it is a bite to a human, or another animal, if the bite breaks skin the animal is required to complete a rabies quarantine. Rabies quarantine is ten days long and typically takes place at the shelter.