A FOSTER PARENT SPEAKS:
Thank You for bringing this foster dog into my life. Had I not made the decision to participate in rescue, I would never have had the chance to meet him. If I had sat here comfortably in my home and said, "But I already have four and I can’t take another one - even on a temporary basis," I would never have met this dog.
Yes, it takes time to rescue and foster. . .but who gave me Time in the first place? And why or what was the reason I was given Time? To fill my own needs? Or was there another reason ever so small and seemingly insignificant? Like rescuing this one dog, that could make a difference in another's life? Perhaps to add joy, hope, help and companionship to another who is in need?
With great sadness, I sat down on a footstool in my kitchen this morning and watched as this foster dog bounced back into the house and skidded across the floor to sit ever so perfectly in front of me. He was the picture of health, finally. He was all smiles for me. And I smiled back at his happy face. Deep in his eyes, the storm clouds of illness and generalized poor health had blown away, and the clear sight of his perfection radiated out from his beautiful soul. He holds no ill will toward man. He forgives us all.
I thought to myself, as I impressed this one last long look of him into my heart, “What a very fine creature you have created.” Tears slowly pooled and spilled over my cheekbones as the deeper realization of how wonderful this dog is, sank into my internal file cabinet of “Needful Things to Remember.” Lord, he's a dog - but he's a better human being than I am.
He has forgiven quickly. Would I do the same? He passionately enjoys the simple things in life. And I have often overlooked them. He accepts change and gets on with his life. I fuss and worry about change. He lives today and loves today. And I often dwell in the past or worry about the future. He loves no matter what. I am not that free.
This very lovely dog has gone to his new home today and already I miss him. Thank You for bringing this dog into my life. And Thank You for the beautiful and tender lesson on how to be a better human.
~Author Unknown~
What does it mean to be a Foster Parent?
Have you said any of these?
"If I could, I would take all of them." How many times have you said that? You don't need to take them all, but you can certainly help save a few! As the saying goes, "Saving one dog may not make a difference to the world, but it makes a world of difference to that dog!"
"We would love to foster, but we just don't have the time." Yes you do. Many of us work, have families & other responsibilities, just like you do!
"We will get too attached." We certainly hope so! That is what makes it so rewarding to watch these precious dogs go into fabulous homes, then keep in touch with the adoptive families!
There is absolutely no person more valuable to a rescue organization than a foster parent. In fact, animal rescue would be almost impossible if it weren't for the caring souls willing to open their hearts and their homes to these animals in desperate need of a temporary, loving environment.
We provide all the food, supplies, and medical treatment while the pet is in your care, but as always we are grateful for any help we might receive from the foster parent. You provide the love, shelter, and socialization until a pet is adopted.
Foster parenting entails nothing more than allowing an animal who is in the rescue's system to stay in your home and receive the love, nurturing and daily care that any animal deserves until he or she finds a permanent home. It's not nearly as intimidating as it may sound; it's extremely fun & very rewarding. Our foster homes are wonderful people with normal everyday jobs & routines just like you!
We desperately need your help!
To become a Foster Parent for Schnauzer Friends Rescue and Adoption, please complete our Application. Click here to fill out an application. (In place of dogs name, fill in foster parent.)