At the top of Alexa’s Christmas list for several years has been one thing: a Westie.
Her sister however, would prefer a Great Dane. Their mom, Stephanie Anctil, wasn’t sure what to do, “I was afraid the kids wouldn’t be able to decide on a dog, and that they would lose interest in the new dog.” Her cousin, who volunteers for Animal Coalition of Delaware County (ACDC) asked if she had considered fostering a dog. “I thought it was a great idea: we could have a second dog, and the girls could have a chance to show that they would help.” The family applied to ACDC to foster dogs.
The foster care system is the heart and soul of the Animal Coalition of Delaware County’s approach to animal rescue. Dogs, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs are surrendered or rescued from shelters and brought temporarily to a network of foster families. The pets experience a much more natural situation than being cooped up in crates with little human contact in a shelter. It allows a truer picture of an animal’s temperament to be drawn. In addition, foster families work on an animal’s socialization and training, and regular vet visits are made.
The girls play an active role in caring for the dogs that have come through their household, walking, feeding, and playing with them. “They are also learning that giving back is important,” Stephanie explains.
The Anctil family has found the fostering experience to be very rewarding. “It is great to be making a difference to help save homeless animals who might otherwise be euthanized. The new owners are grateful to get a dog who is mostly trained and has been exposed to dogs, kids, and a variety of social situations. Overall, Stephanie recommends the experience, “As a foster, you can decide when you’ll take a new dog, what size and what age dog you prefer.
Other fosters volunteer to dog sit when you are out of town. Additionally, ACDC pays for any veterinary care the dog may require.”
Still, she admits that sending a dog to a new home is bittersweet. “We miss the dogs, but they are going to a loving home where they are truly wanted. As a foster, you play a role in choosing the new owner. It helps to know the dog is going to a loving home. We still have our dog, so the house isn’t empty!”
If you are interested in becoming a foster parent visit the ACDC website.
Leave a Reply