What is Fostering?

Humans aren’t the only species that go through foster programs. When dogs of all kinds and ages are left abandoned on street sides or put into kill shelters, foster programs come in to assist. They collect the dogs and have volunteers watch over the dogs in their homes while the organization does their best to find a welcoming home for them. In turn, this helps to give canines a new outlook on life and keeps them out of euthanasia facilities. Fostering is a big commitment, it’s a lot like dog sitting on steroids. However, by giving them food, water, and as much love as you can give them, you are giving them a new chance at life.

An Inside Look

Allison Mant is a well known “Foster Mom”. Her dog, Merle, was a foster fail (when you foster a dog but end up adopting it instead of having someone else adopt it) and she is incredibly grateful that he was such a great fit for her family. “I have had dogs in my house for 4 days to 2 months, there’s no telling how long they will be with you. It’s worth it in the end though, when I get to see them go off with another family that is so excited to love and care for them.” she says. She later explained that fostering is like a “free-trial” for a dog. You get to practice taking care of them while also getting all the perks of puppy love.

What Can I Do To Help?

Mile High Lab Mission is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to keeping dogs out of kill shelters and off the streets. They gather Labrador puppies and dogs of all ages to be distributed here in Colorado. They offer adoption and fostering programs for these dogs and help to find each one a great fit for a home.

Life Is Better Rescue is another non-profit organizations that offers assistance to all sorts of animals, not just dogs. They host “adopt-a-thons” where people can come to meet these loving animals and see if they would be a good fit for their home.