How long have you been rescuing dogs and how did you come to be involved in dog rescue? I started working with dog rescue in July of 2008. I lost my dog, Katey, after 18 years of loving companionship, in June of that year. I knew I did not want to own another dog right away, and fostering seemed like the perfect answer. After doing some research I settled on K-9 New Life and haven't looked back!
Do you find fostering dogs difficult? Do you ever get attached to your foster? Fostering can be difficult because rescue dogs take a lot of energy sometimes. They do not always have perfect manners or habits and may need to be socialized, too. I get attached in someway to all the dogs I care for. I think Lucy was the hardest to let go because she was such a little heart stealer and constantly had me laughing!
What is your most memorable foster dog/experience? I took on a foster, Ginger, who quickly became my own dog. Together we went on to pass the Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dog tests. Ginger is now applying for membership with Therapy Dogs International, Inc. to become an official therapy dog. The pride I felt towards this rescued dog when she passed her tests was incredible!
How has being involved in dog rescue changed or impacted your life? I am a Healing Touch for Animals practitioner. Working with rescue dogs allows me to use my skills on a day-to-day basis, which is wonderful, but more than that, I thrive on their energy. Nothing is more satisfying in my day than to spend time with the dogs, preparing them for their new lives in their permanent homes. And of course, there is the love they give me! I am definately happier with a dog or two around!
What advice would you offer to someone who is considering fostering a rescue dog? Working with rescues is something I had always thought about doing. You know, when you have a dream that you hope one day to fulfill? Fostering is not a "someday" thing, it is something that you should do now if you have any desire at all to do it. It's a commitment of time and love, but with K-9 New Life you do not need to pay for food or medical expenses, which makes it very easy to foster. So if you have the energy to offer, save the life of a rescue dog. The return you get is unbelievable.