As a 22-year Colorado resident and animal rescue volunteer, I've learned a couple of things about my fellow animal lovers:
- Many believe that adopting a homeless dog or cat is a noble gesture.
- Once a person adopts from an animal rescue group, they often become involved as a volunteer or financial contributor.
While most animal rescue groups welcome assistance of any kind, one organization offers a special volunteer opportunity: the chance to be a temporary "foster parent" for a deserving pet awaiting adoption. Good Samaritan Pet Adoption Center, a 501(c) 3 nonprofit, is unique among animal rescue organizations in the Metro area. Instead of housing animals in a shelter facility, Good Sam maintains a network of pre-screened foster parents who care for animals in their home until a permanent home can be found. Good Sam provides the animal's food, supplies and veterinary care, while the foster parent (or family) provides love and socialization in a caring home environment.
Six years ago, my husband and I became a "foster family" for Good Samaritan. Being a foster parent is an awesome responsibility and one that we don't take lightly. It's also one of the most fun and rewarding things we've ever done.
Our first foster dog was Ayla, a sweet Chow/Shepherd whose owner had abandoned her at a boarding kennel. Ayla was a "senior" dog - likely 12 years old - with a playful personality and soulful eyes. She loved being in our home and the feeling was mutual; we adopted her as our own. Ayla experienced her "15 minutes of fame" when she was featured in a U.S. Humane Society feature story about the joys of adopting older animals.
To date, we've opened our home to four other wonderful dogs who have been adopted by loving families. Our current special "houseguest" is Obie, possibly an Anatolian Shepherd mix, who lost a hind leg to amputation after he was hit by a car. He's recovered fully and doesn't even know he's missing a limb. Obie, who enjoys regular walks and running in the dog park, was featured last month on Petline 9. We know that there's a loving individual or family out there somewhere that's a perfect match for this special dog.
Being a foster parent is a special privilege. While my husband and I readily admit to being "foster flunkies" -- those who adopt an animal they foster - we're gratified knowing that we've helped deserving animals find their "forever" homes.
Good Samaritan needs good people to temporarily foster animals who are waiting to be adopted.
To find out more about becoming a foster parent, call Good Samaritan at 303-333-2291 or go to:
http://www.goodsamaritanpetcenter.org .