Can't adopt? Foster a rescue animal!

Do you LOVE animals but can't commit to the long term requirements that come with adoption? 

First of all, congratulations for taking the long term into account, as many people who don't end up with a pet that they surrender after many years.  The sight of a pet that has had a family and home finding itself in a shelter homeless is truely sad.

The GOOD news is that fostering or volunteering for a local rescue group is a great alternative.  Fostering does have commitments for sure, but not as long term as adoption (however be aware of what is affectionately referred to as "foster failures" who end up adopting their foster pet!)

Fosters are truely the lifebood of most rescues and there is a dire need for them to allow rescue groups to keep saving lives.

The requirements of a foster can vary from rescue group to rescue group, so check around.  In additon to providing the daily care for the pet, fosters are generally involved with attending adooption events to "market" their foster!  Some get very creative by posting their foster on their personal websites, taking their foster around town with "adopt me" gear, or sharing flyers with colleagues and friends.  Fosters also play a vital and helpful role for the rescue group to evaluate the foster's behavior and personality.  They also need to be tuned in to any medical concerns and coordinate transport and care.  Most rescues cover the costs of the food and medications, but talk to the rescue that you are interested in fostering for to get all of the info.  And be prepared for a thorough interview and approval process.  While it may seem invasive it is necessary for the rescues to ensure that the rescue animal they have worked hard to save will be suitably taken care of while in search of their forever home.

Our next blog will focus on other volunteer opportunities.

To learn more about how to get engaged in helping rescues visit us at www.GenerationWags.com and LIVE IT!  Once on our site click on Shelters and Rescues at the bottom to view a number of local rescue groups and links to their sites!