About We Foster Dogs
Are you thinking about fostering dogs but are concerned about what is required? Are you worried you might not be a good foster parent? Does the commitment of fostering seem overwhelming? Are you worried about whether or not foster dogs will get along with your current pets?
These are all valid questions! My name is Catherine, and these thoughts all crossed my mind at some point before I started fostering. Yet, after I fostered my first dog, I realized that those worries shouldn’t stop dog lovers from fostering.
My first foster dog was a sweet senior dog named Sage. I had two dogs of my own at the time, so I made sure to do slow introductions when bringing Sage home. I made sure she had her own quiet space to decompress.
Being in the shelter for so long had taken a toll on Sage’s health and worn down her will to live. The chaos, noise, and isolation of shelters can affect dogs negatively, leading to loneliness and sickness. Since Sage was a senior dog, she was also frequently overlooked at adoption events, so she had been at the shelter for far too long.
She was sick and on antibiotics when I brought her home. She had watery eyes, a runny nose, and difficulties walking. Because of her condition, the shelter staff weren’t sure if she’d survive the night. They wanted her in a foster home to ensure her final moments were in a loving environment. I sat with Sage, talked to her, and gave her medicine, nutritious food, and treats.
Luckily, Sage survived the night. Day after day, she became stronger, healthier, and more alert. She showed interest in my two rescue dogs, Maggie and Pluto, and started playing with them in the yard. After about a week, Sage was strong enough to join me and my dogs for our nightly walks. She was finally receiving the love and care she needed, which greatly improved her health and mental well-being.
In only three weeks, Sage was ready to be adopted. A woman in Pennsylvania adopted her and gave her a second chance at life. Of course, I miss Sage sometimes, but if it weren’t for my help, she never would’ve found her forever home.
Many dogs are euthanized in shelters if they don’t find a foster home or forever home in time. So, I created this site as a way to encourage more people to foster dogs and save lives. Because of my experience with Sage, I especially want to encourage people to foster the dogs that are overlooked at shelters, such as senior dogs.
If you’re interested in fostering a dog, please visit the list of at-risk dogs in Memphis. Fostering one would save that dog’s life. For more information on fostering topics, visit our blog.
