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.
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.
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AuthorsPosts are written by our volunteer team and our adopters Archives
January 2021
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