From a Foster Mum

Like most people, I try and strive to be the best version of myself and set a strong example for my children. I’m not expecting to save the planet, but I’d like to do more to “help” that extends beyond reducing my carbon footprint. My most recent venture has been so heart warming, far beyond my expectations, & the most emotionally rewarding thing I have ever undertaken– we have fostered a dog.

After losing my beloved border collie of 13 years last year, my family and I were left with a huge hole in our hearts. I had always wanted to rescue a dog, but was not feeling ready to take this step. So I decided to look into fostering. Having worked in the “dog industry” for over 10 years, I felt that I had developed the right skill set to help rehabilitate and re-home a dog that needed my help. A close friend of mine runs a Romanian dog rescue called “Dogs Walk this Way Rescue”, and she was my first port of call.

​For those who don’t know, there is a huge stray dog issue in Romania. Over 3 million dogs roam their streets. A lot were abandoned after the industrialisation of the country began in the 80’s. People had to leave their homes in the countryside and abandoned their pets. Politicians have tried to enforce neutering but people now make money from catching and killing these poor animals and the conditions the dogs live in are unimaginable.

Having assessed that I was going to be able to help her, Rachael very soon offered me a dog, and so my journey with Harry began. I had no expectations when I met Harry. He was nervous, a bit scruffy and smelly, but so so sweet and desperate for some reassurance. Having traveled from Barlad Kill Shelter to the rescue shelter in Romania (outdoor kennels with temperatures reaching -14 degrees) for micro chipping, neutering and vaccinations/ blood tests etc, and then being put in a van to travel over to the UK, only to be put in another kennel over here - Harry was a very scared dog.

Harry, once he'd relaxed and got used to being in a home

​​So we met - and I put him in the boot of my car and we went home. For the first hour or so he didn’t really interact with our dog other than peeing on everything to mark his territory. However, within a day or two he began to come out of his shell and he blossomed into the most cuddly, friendly, well- mannered little chap. He was wonderful with my children but took a little time to come to like my husband. He was quickly house trained; he walked to heel and didn’t bark or chew. I was quite amazed! By Day 7, having established that he would come when I called him in from the garden every time, I decided to let him off lead, and he was perfect with that too! Mr Perfect actually! Other than not liking crates (understandably) and occasionally peeing on a piece of furniture if he hadn’t entered that house before ...he was faultless.

​​I now have my second foster dog with me and she is equally wonderful. She is going to take a little longer to trust us, but she will make someone an incredible friend. She adores my children too and is well mannered. These dogs are constantly so underestimated because of their circumstance, when in reality they just seem grateful for the stability, the love and the roof over their heads. Also, I don’t think you need 10 years’ experience to help these poor dogs - just time, a little patience and a lot of love.

Beau, our second foster girl who has gone on to such a lovely, happy home!

​In conclusion, fostering a dog might not change the world, but for that one dog, their world will be changed forever.

UPDATE: Beau, Sarah's second foster dog has now been adopted. Below is the Facebook post and video Sarah made to help get Beau adopted.