We are proud to spread awareness about the joy of fostering with our pals Best Friends Animal Society and Toast Meets World! Best Friends NY is looking for pawtential foster parents for pups in the Tri-state area. Find out how you can help here!
We know the drill. I’d love to foster, but…
1. I’m broke!
There are a lot of misconceptions surrounding the fostering process. For one thing, people seem to think it’s expensive. If you already own a dog, you know that food costs and vet bills can sometimes come with a pretty hefty price tag. What you may not know though is that Best Friends – New York covers all medical and vet bills, provides transport to events, appointments and meet and greets, and offers some supplies you may need like crates, leashes, and toys.
2. I only see big dogs who need my help!
Many people also seem to be averse to fostering big dogs. When you live in a city, space is precious and it may seem as though a big dog won’t fit in your cozy apartment. In actuality, a ten-pound Pomeranian full of energy can sometimes be more disruptive than well-mannered 70-lb Pit Bull. A lot of these dogs just want to hang out on the sofa with you! If you’re considering fostering a dog, keep in mind that it’s really all up to that specific dog’s personality, not the size.
3. I can’t do it forever.
Some people worry that fostering a dog can become a semi-permanent situation. The timeline for fostering could actually be as short as a week! The timing all depends on how you’re able to get your foster out there to other interested people. Whether it be through social media, or just spreading the word to friends and family, you can reach a wide range of people eager to adopt.
4. I don’t have a dog walker.
There are some pups who might be fine lounging on the sofa all day and going for a walk when you get home. At the end of the day, the alternative is a shelter cage or worse, so even if you are not the perfect candidate for fostering, remember, you are saving a life by opening your home.
If you cannot foster, shelters need all kinds of helpers on every level, from donating or volunteering to raising awareness, there are countless ways you can help. Contact Best Friends Animal Society to find out how you can do your part to help make New York City the largest No-Kill City in the world.
