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Why I Foster: All the Way from South Dakota
By Kathy Downey
Fostering is one of the most rewarding opportunities you will ever have. I say this with confidence because to date I have been responsible for 25 collies and shelties coming into Pueblo Collie/Sheltie Rescue (PCSR). Some of them have been with us only overnight where others were with us for several months.
I have been volunteering for PCSR for over 2 years now and the crazy part of this is that I live in South Dakota some 8 hours away. Unfortunately, in South Dakota we do not have a collie or sheltie rescue here. I got to know the wonderful group of volunteers with PCSR when I contacted them about 2 shelties and 1 collie that were located at our Humane Society where I live. I ended up adopting the collie but helped with transport for the 2 shelties and the rest, as they say, is history.
When I look back at all the wonderful dogs that have come into my life -- each with their own story and uniqueness -- and reflect back on my time with them, I realize the rewards each one of them have given me.
Sure, I wish my job would not exist but it does. I have received so much more from these dogs over the years then I feel I have given them. Many of my dogs have been located in shelters so when I have brought them home they are so appreciative to have someone look into their eyes and tell them it will be OK and they are safe and they will never end up on a cold floor again fighting for their life.
Is every dog you get a piece of cake? The answer is "no," but this is your chance to make a difference in their lives and let them know that not every human is evil and they can learn to trust again. And so the long healing journey begins. When that journey ends and they are ready to move onto their "forever home" tears of joy start streaming down your face as their new family arrives to welcome them into their home. And for that brief second they look back into your eyes as if to say, "Its OK, Mom, you have taught me to love again and I will be just fine," that is when you know it has been all worth it!
Sure it is hard to say goodbye, but you have to think about yourself as a bridge that retrieves them from what was and what it can be. You will meet so many wonderful people as I have because when you foster you know that dog the best and will assist in helping choose their forever home. Getting updates with pictures and seeing there happy faces and tails wagging is so rewarding knowing that you helped make a difference.
Not many people can say they have made a difference is someone's life but if you foster you will. You make a difference in the dog you foster and the family that is lucky enough to adopt it. I hope you will apply today for one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have.
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