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Project: Pick a topic you love and know well, or a subject you are passionate about or have a deep interest in. Write an intriguing yet easy-to-read article that readers will find interesting and useful.
Why would I want to foster dogs? It would be too hard to let them go!
Yes, a common reservation I heard frequently as President of a rescue organization.
There are numerous benefits to fostering, though, that far outweigh letting the dog go (to a wonderful forever home, I might add).
Let me give you 5 of the reasons to foster dogs:
#1: Save the lives of multiple dogs by fostering just one
Not only do you save the life of the dog you pull from the shelter to foster, but also the life of another dog who now has a spot at that shelter.
Making room in your home for a foster dog makes room in the shelter for another stray dog or owner surrender.
#2: Multiply the odds of the dog staying in an adoptive home
By allowing the foster dog to live in your home while awaiting adoption, he becomes adjusted to home and family life.
Countless dogs in shelters have lived unhappy lives apart from families, whether loose on the streets, locked in kennels, or chained in backyards.
When the dog lives with a foster family prior to adoption, he learns how to live inside a home and co-exist with humans and other furry siblings.
He learns house manners, housebreaking, and how to socialize with children and other animals.
By learning these essentials, the dog’s chances of remaining in an adoptive home multiply.
#3: Receive unconditional love
Nowhere else will you get the unconditional love that a dog can provide!
Dogs are loving, forgiving souls. And they know who has saved them.
They will love and cherish you more than any human can.
#4: Gather information to place the dog in the best home
Having the foster dog in your home gives the rescue group, and yourself, time to learn about the dog before placing him in an adoptive home.
You see his personality, his preferences, and his quirks.
Is a quiet or an active home more appropriate? Is the dog a couch potato or does he want to go for long runs? Does he do better with small children to play with or would he prefer only adults who will let him chill?
These specifics are invaluable to recognize the best type of home and family suitable for the dog.
#5: Relish the emotional reward
Volunteering is a truly rewarding experience.
Especially when you are saving the life of a needy animal who cannot save himself.
Fostering is a win-win. Beneficial to the foster parent, the rescue group, the adoptive family, and of course, the dog.
Yes, it may be hard to let them go when they become part of your family, even temporarily.
But when you find that perfect forever family for your foster dog, the joy and gratification are unrivaled. And that is the best reward.
For more information on fostering, or other ways you can help, contact us at Tails of Hope Pet Rescue.