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In July 2021, I got my first foster dog.
Avery was the first of what I hope is many foster dogs to stay in our home.
What has surprised me the most since I started fostering dogs, is the amount of times I get asked why I do it. So… I thought I’d write a post about it.
When I left my job at Alerus Center in June, I was genuinely concerned I would lose the connection I had to the greater Grand Forks community. My job as Director of Sales really made me feel like I was doing some big, important things for our town. Whether I was bringing an event to town that would flood hotels and restaurants, working the big ticketed events that bring entertainment and memories, or showcasing local businesses at events – every day I genuinely felt like I did something that made our town better. When I decided to leave to change industries, I knew I would still be making an impact but it wouldn’t be so localized and as visible each day.
About a week after starting to transition out of my Alerus Center job, Journey Home started posting that they needed fosters. A week later, they still needed 40 foster homes. Matt and I talked it through, and decided we would give it a go.
Every dog I have had – both as a kid and adult – has been a rescue. Until I started fostering, I had no idea just how many people it takes to save that animal. But I do now, and I am SO glad to be a small part of that process.
I definitely was nervous and was worried about falling for the dog and not being able to get them adopted out. Instead, I enjoy loving on them and helping them to be their best selves so they get adopted quickly and to the right family. We do miss them when they are gone – even our dogs miss them! But when you see who they end up with, it makes it so worth it. Plus, it frees up our home for the next foster dog.
This post shouldn’t make it sound like it is all hearts and rainbows. There are dogs that just push my buttons and aren’t a good match for my personality. But we love them and work on their issues to get them ready for their fur-ever home. I have had to learn to take a break and come back when I am patient and ready to try again. Matt does a great job of reminding me to do this. Anyone who knows me, knows I am not the most patient, but I am working on it!
So, I foster to feel a connection the community and to feel like I am giving back to the area where I live. Now that I work from home full time, this seemed like a mission that could benefit from that. It’s good for me, our dogs, the dog we foster, and the community as a whole.
We can always use more fosters! Give it a thought and post your questions below – I’d be happy to share my experience.
