Fostering is one of the most rewarding experiences in the world. But it is also very tricky because goodbye is the goal.
Foster pets are meant to stay temporary. The SPCA provides all the supplies and you open your heart and home. When they grow big, strong and healthy, you know they are officially ready for adoption. It is such an exciting but bittersweet day because that means a goodbye is coming.
I hear people all the time say, “I wish I could foster but the goodbyes would be too hard.” It is true that goodbyes are difficult. But the fulfilling feeling that you helped set a pet up for success totally outweighs the sadness. It may be a goodbye for you but it is the beautiful beginning of a new chapter for them.
When I’m missing a foster pet, I often find it helps when I reflect on our time together. With our foster pup, Buddy, we were supposed to be teaching him but he was really teaching us. Here are some of the special moments and lessons he shared:
#1 Don’t underestimate your size and strength. Always go for the bigger stick.
#2 Don’t let the fear of someone making fun of you hold you back from chasing your dreams
#3 Show the world how smart you are
#4 Take your lunch break. Move your body. Play in the sun. Find joy in everything you do.
#5 Greet and show your loved ones you care.
#6 Be brave and strong. Even when faced with something new and scary.
#7 It is important to look at the world from different angles sometimes.
#8 Use your voice and make lots and lots of noise.
#9 Feeling sad? Go to the beach.
#10 Dream big.
I hope watching his videos made you smile, just as he made us smile. We know he will bring so much joy to his new family and they will shower him with love.
Buddy, you were only in our home for 6 weeks but you will live forever in our hearts.