Since the Fall of 2002 we have fostered 34 puppies and 13 adult dogs. Each one formed a bond during their stay, found a spot in my heart, and is remembered as a welcome visitor and friend (I have the pictures to prove it!) I have learned so much from them and they have, individually and collectively, given me much pleasure and the satisfaction of knowing that in some small way their lives improved because of our association.
Fostering animals is a rewarding experience in many ways, one of which is meeting the people who will spend the next decade or so caring for and loving a little critter. It is very difficult to let them go, they spend 2 months or more charming and amusing me, then they leave. The only reason I can love them and let them go is because so many of the adopting families keep in touch, reassure me that the dog is doing fine, is loved and truly has a forever home.
In April 2004, 7 adorable collie-cross puppies went to their new homes. One of them was Liz
I hear from the family frequently and know that Lizzie is a ‘lap of luxury’ member of the family.
Last December a Momma dog moved in and on Boxing Day had her puppies. We named her Merry and she lived here for 3 months in total, a super Shepherd cross that everyone fell in love with (you can follow Merry’s story in the blog starting back in December through early March). Her family renamed her ‘Tika’
I just wanted to update you on Tika. She is so wonderful. We go to the dog park all of the time and she gets along very well with the other dogs. She is fitting into our house like she has always been here and loves the girls. She whines when they have to go out without her and is very excited upon their return. She is learning to play fetch — but only on her terms. We all love her so very much and I am sure she loves us just as much!
She passed the guard dog test the other night. My sister stopped by very late and Tika and the girls were asleep for the night, but when Tika heard the door open she ran to it barking all the way. Once she realized it was ok she went back to her spot beside the girls beds. I was so proud of her.
And there was a picture attached
On the Saskatoon SPCA website is a section called ‘Success Stories’. Many families send in comments and pictures to express their joy in the animal they have adopted, the life saved, and to thank the staff for caring for the animal that is now such an important part of their life. Much of the work in the Shelter involves unwanted and abandoned animals, so much sadness and distress — success stories are the positive feedback that lifts the spirit and provides the incentive to continue. Please, if you have adopted an animal from a Shelter anywhere in the world, drop them a line, a picture, and let them know that their efforts made a difference in your life.
And because most Shelters are run by charitable organizations, please support the fundraising efforts of your local Shelter to ensure they still exist when you, your family and friends go looking for that special little something to complete your life.
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