Old Dominion Humane Society’s (ODHS) foster families are invaluable to the rescues dogs, and the nonprofit organization is celebrating them throughout June (and year-round) for National Foster a Pet Month. The rescue dogs at ODHS range in size from extra-small to large and every age bracket, from puppies to adults to seniors. Some are disabled or “specially-abled,’” and many of them are rescued from mistreatment, high-kill shelters, hoarding situations and more.
National Foster a Pet Month’s goal is to raise awareness about the millions of pets in shelters and rescue organizations throughout the country that need homes. Fostering provides these furry friends with a temporary home and gives them a second chance at finding their forever families.
“Fostering is a great way for an individual or a family to get involved in helping our rescue dogs,” said Chrissy Blake, ODHS founder. “To see the transformation of a dog from broken and scared to a happy and confident pup is amazing. ODHS makes it easy for people to foster by providing medical care, food, collar, leash, toys and a crate. In return, the foster is asked to give the rescue love and attention.”
According to Rescue Dogs 101, there are many benefits to fostering a rescue dog besides the fact that the cute, furry face will brighten up many a day. Benefits include:
Saving a Dog’s Life—When fostering a dog, two lives are saved. The dog being fostered allows an opening for another dog to be saved.
No Long-Term Commitment—Fostering can range from a few days to several months.
Part of a Community—Many people like being involved in fostering programs, because they’re connected with other dog-lovers. It’s a chance to make new friends, learn from each other and discuss problems and solutions.
Learning Experience for Children—There are so many benefits for children, including the fact that dogs teach kids responsibility, compassion and encouragement to get outside in the fresh air.
Volunteering Provides Numerous Mental Health Benefits—Volunteering by fostering can help counteract the effects of stress and anxiety. It makes you feel good, increases self-confidence, provides a sense of purpose and helps fight depression.
See Your Heart Grow Three Sizes—Loving, nurturing, helping and finding the best forever home for the foster fills the heart. The commitment to a foster dog is one of the most fulfilling acts of kindness, and the rescue will thank you with kisses and just knowing how content he is.
ODHS is located at 3602 Lafayette Boulevard in Fredericksburg. To learn more about ODHS’s Foster program and fill out a foster application, visit www.olddominionhumanesociety.org and click on the “Foster” tab on top of the page. After filling out a foster application, ODHS will help match the best dog to the individual or family. There are plenty of options, from small, medium or large dogs to puppies and pregnant moms that need homes to birth their puppies in.