We Need Foster Homes!
Why We Do It
There is a reward in this job that can’t be described by mere words, but I have to try.
You ARE saving a life. You get to watch really nice dogs find really nice homes. You get to bring them all the way from unwanted to appreciated, and anyone who loves one of these fickle creatures knows, appreciation is the key to engaging this breed!
 We never know what kind of dog is going to walk through our doors. Sometimes we have true urchins come in with no social skills and a tendency to pee when they get nervous – and trust me - everything makes them nervous. Then, there is the trembling ball of fur that won’t leave his crate because he is so terrified, or the flight dog that won’t let you catch her. Then, more really nice dogs that need really nice homes. Some come into care reasonably healthy and can be placed quickly. Others are special needs or heartworm positive.
 So let’s talk about Special Needs. It is a coupling of words that carries a big stigma; let’s break it down. While Special Needs can involve dogs that have apparatuses, most of the time it is much simpler. We basically define a Special Need as something requiring ongoing care, potentially life-long. They can be older, blind or deaf, even amputees. They can also have epilepsy or thyroid conditions that require lifelong care. These are still very adoptable dogs; it just means their new home will have to be chosen with different criteria in mind.
Probably the most common question I get, as a Foster Mom is, “How can you give them up?” Good question.
 Some people begin a journey with no clear destination in mind, and that can work really well on a summer vacation. However, the perspective for fostering is sort of reversed in that there is a questionable beginning with a precise, defined end. We usually have no more than a few days’ advance notice of a dog’s arrival; sometimes we get calls and pick up dogs that same day. Every dog comes in with us understanding that we are merely the way station on his journey to a forever home. We bring them in for the sole purpose of sending them away. But it isn’t ‘blind’ fostering. As a foster parent, you meet the potential adopter. All of the screening has been done, the home visits are complete and all you have to do is see if the dog and the applicants click. It is very rewarding to watch the process and know that you effect not only the life of a dog, but all of those he touches after leaving your home.
Kari Donald
IGCA Rescue
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