Fostering Testimonials
On our Facebook page, we run a regular series called Fosterers Friday. Below are a selection of these.
(Please click here for Adopter Testimonials)
Fosterers Friday - By Tess Harris - 2017
Here are a few words from one of our volunteer fosterers about her experience of fostering:
When I saw a photo of a brown and tan dog cowering in a Romanian Public Shelter, with an appeal from Give a Dog a Home for a foster home, it did not take me long to decide to put my name forward.
That picture was of Toby. I was asked by Give a Dog a Home if I would like to name him which was a lovely gesture, and the name we chose just seemed to suit him.
When Toby arrived he was very underweight and frightened. It took two of us to coax him out of his travel crate and into the house.
However, he is already coming out of his shell and is content, happy and extremely loving.
He is good with our three dogs but particularly fond of young Pipkin (pictured with Toby). They snuggle up and play together, run round the garden and back in again. Pipkin is delighted to have a willing playmate as my other two dogs don’t often play with him!
Toby is already housetrained and we are now teaching him to walk on a lead. He patiently stands still while I put on harness and collar and two leads to ensure he doesn’t slip out.
We are enjoying watching his confidence grow with every day – I know he is going to be a loving and loyal member of a lucky family!
Please do consider fostering – not only does it literally save a dog’s life, it is without doubt one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.
Yes, I will have to say goodbye to Toby before too long but in the knowledge that he is going to have a great new life, in a safe and loving home.
If you would like some information on fostering, or would like to know more about any of our dogs, please get in touch
When I saw a photo of a brown and tan dog cowering in a Romanian Public Shelter, with an appeal from Give a Dog a Home for a foster home, it did not take me long to decide to put my name forward.
That picture was of Toby. I was asked by Give a Dog a Home if I would like to name him which was a lovely gesture, and the name we chose just seemed to suit him.
When Toby arrived he was very underweight and frightened. It took two of us to coax him out of his travel crate and into the house.
However, he is already coming out of his shell and is content, happy and extremely loving.
He is good with our three dogs but particularly fond of young Pipkin (pictured with Toby). They snuggle up and play together, run round the garden and back in again. Pipkin is delighted to have a willing playmate as my other two dogs don’t often play with him!
Toby is already housetrained and we are now teaching him to walk on a lead. He patiently stands still while I put on harness and collar and two leads to ensure he doesn’t slip out.
We are enjoying watching his confidence grow with every day – I know he is going to be a loving and loyal member of a lucky family!
Please do consider fostering – not only does it literally save a dog’s life, it is without doubt one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.
Yes, I will have to say goodbye to Toby before too long but in the knowledge that he is going to have a great new life, in a safe and loving home.
If you would like some information on fostering, or would like to know more about any of our dogs, please get in touch
Fosterers Friday - By Lesley - 2016
100 paw prints fostered and still counting.
I have owned dogs most of my adult life, usually have 2/3 at a time but when we lost our last dog it hit us really hard, so we decided to leave it awhile before considering another furry member of our family. The house was so empty and missing that special someone it all felt very strange. Then we saw an advert for fostering ; it would give us the best of both worlds - we could have a dog to fill the hole in our life and help a dog in need at the same time. So we offered our services to the local rescue.
Our first dog only stayed with us about a week - the local vet knew someone looking for a small dog and they fell instantly in love with her. She was a sweet little thing. We had every colour, size and breed imaginable. From a couple of weeks , right up to 10+ . Deaf, blind, tripod, ill-treated, unwanted and the really sad cases of people having no choice but to re home their beloved pets, we have cared for them all.
I also helped foster pregnant cats in my spare room and at one time due to an emergency, I had mum and 8 puppies downstairs and mum and 6 kittens upstairs. Now that was hard work but so rewarding. One dog we took in had puppies two days after she arrived, so only just got her off the streets in time. I had a young orphan to rear not easy for a puppy dog to be reared on its own. But a couple of weeks later a box of puppies were dumped in a box in a village nearby so we took two of them in, in no time the three of them became good friends.
We took in an American Bulldog and her young puppies, Mum was a terrific temperament and she bonded with both of us quite quickly and was happy to have us touch her puppies, as they grew I became concerned about them they did not react like all the other puppies I had reared but I could not put my finger on the problem. Once they started really moving around and doing well I dismissed my worries. They must have been 5/6 weeks old when I suddenly realised they appeared to be deaf. Usually at this age the puppies react to people coming into the room even when fast asleep they wake up but these three were still asleep. No amount of noise would wake then, not even saucepans being bang. They all got great homes and are well loved by their owners, so all ended well.
All fosterers have a weak spot and mine was a stunning English Setter Niki living at Elpida Shelter in Greece for two years. I had only been fostering for a short time with Give a Dog a Home and still not ready (or so I thought) to adopt our own dog yet. I kept my eye on her . As the weeks went by the temptation to get her over became stronger so we asked if we could foster her with a view for adoption. This was agreed and we began the process to get her to the UK. At the time we had quite a few young dogs to bring over from Elpida so they had priority. I was quite excited at the thought of meeting her but trying to hard keep myself a bit detached. Nearly a year after seeing her on the website she arrived. Typical setter she was like a coiled spring and dancing all over the place but she soon calmed down. I think it was love at first site for both of us, she has such an adorable character . So we became a 'failed fosterer' for GADAH and adopted Niki the following month.
People say “how can you give them up, we could not do it”! I admit sometimes it’s not easy as we love all our temporary charges and look after them as if they were our own. But watching them go off to their new families with smiles on the peoples' faces and wagging tails from the dogs speaks volumes. Then we look forward to helping our next foster “what will they be like” “big or small” “young or old” ?
Here's to the next 100.
I have owned dogs most of my adult life, usually have 2/3 at a time but when we lost our last dog it hit us really hard, so we decided to leave it awhile before considering another furry member of our family. The house was so empty and missing that special someone it all felt very strange. Then we saw an advert for fostering ; it would give us the best of both worlds - we could have a dog to fill the hole in our life and help a dog in need at the same time. So we offered our services to the local rescue.
Our first dog only stayed with us about a week - the local vet knew someone looking for a small dog and they fell instantly in love with her. She was a sweet little thing. We had every colour, size and breed imaginable. From a couple of weeks , right up to 10+ . Deaf, blind, tripod, ill-treated, unwanted and the really sad cases of people having no choice but to re home their beloved pets, we have cared for them all.
I also helped foster pregnant cats in my spare room and at one time due to an emergency, I had mum and 8 puppies downstairs and mum and 6 kittens upstairs. Now that was hard work but so rewarding. One dog we took in had puppies two days after she arrived, so only just got her off the streets in time. I had a young orphan to rear not easy for a puppy dog to be reared on its own. But a couple of weeks later a box of puppies were dumped in a box in a village nearby so we took two of them in, in no time the three of them became good friends.
We took in an American Bulldog and her young puppies, Mum was a terrific temperament and she bonded with both of us quite quickly and was happy to have us touch her puppies, as they grew I became concerned about them they did not react like all the other puppies I had reared but I could not put my finger on the problem. Once they started really moving around and doing well I dismissed my worries. They must have been 5/6 weeks old when I suddenly realised they appeared to be deaf. Usually at this age the puppies react to people coming into the room even when fast asleep they wake up but these three were still asleep. No amount of noise would wake then, not even saucepans being bang. They all got great homes and are well loved by their owners, so all ended well.
All fosterers have a weak spot and mine was a stunning English Setter Niki living at Elpida Shelter in Greece for two years. I had only been fostering for a short time with Give a Dog a Home and still not ready (or so I thought) to adopt our own dog yet. I kept my eye on her . As the weeks went by the temptation to get her over became stronger so we asked if we could foster her with a view for adoption. This was agreed and we began the process to get her to the UK. At the time we had quite a few young dogs to bring over from Elpida so they had priority. I was quite excited at the thought of meeting her but trying to hard keep myself a bit detached. Nearly a year after seeing her on the website she arrived. Typical setter she was like a coiled spring and dancing all over the place but she soon calmed down. I think it was love at first site for both of us, she has such an adorable character . So we became a 'failed fosterer' for GADAH and adopted Niki the following month.
People say “how can you give them up, we could not do it”! I admit sometimes it’s not easy as we love all our temporary charges and look after them as if they were our own. But watching them go off to their new families with smiles on the peoples' faces and wagging tails from the dogs speaks volumes. Then we look forward to helping our next foster “what will they be like” “big or small” “young or old” ?
Here's to the next 100.
Fosterers Friday - By Lynne Spencer - 2015
Let’s today look at the subject from the dog’s point of view.
What does a 'home' seem like to the dog, newly arrived from a bumpy three day journey across Europe in a cage? Our shelter dogs have usually never had a home, so the term 're-homing' is n/a for them. They do not recognise fenced boundaries, they do not know what a vacuum cleaner or TV looks or sounds like. Some (the pups raised in the shelter) have hardly seen cars and never seen a child or a cat. What does a ' home' feel like to them? Its firstly a massive assault on their senses, particularly their noses. The smell of cooking or a wet woodland is mind blowing ! Let alone humans speaking and laughing, touching them, giving them a soft warm bed and delicious food. Going to sleep alone in silent darkness with no familiar bouts of barking to alert them, just strange creaks, or sirens, cars, or fireworks from outside the four walls that now surround them.
Then of course, they start to get used to this comfortable but strange life! Walking with something tied round their necks and sitting when their human waves a hand over their head, seems to be the only price they have to pay for a comfy sofa and perhaps ( if they are lucky) a furry friend. So they may start to 'guard' these luxuries and the person who dispenses them. Or they can feel afraid when someone new walks in their house and their only recourse is to bark and / or growl at them. They can respond to this huge change by loving us and accurately reading us, or by feeling even more insecure, that they have been taken out of their unpleasant but at least familiar comfort zone, the shelter or the street.
So what is our job as a member of that rare and precious breed, dog fosterers? Temporarily but crucially, to give them that first introduction to a home. To keep them safe and do no harm, physically or psychologically. Not to put them in a position where they have no choice, in their minds, but to lash out. To stop them bolting, either out of fear or curiosity, out of the front door, the car or the inadequately fenced garden. To feed them good food and give them exercise in order to build up their fragile health. To gently and gradually stimulate their brains in order to learn the ways of OUR world. To help them finally relax and discover their true and huge potential. If the dogs could speak, they would thank their dear fosterers from the bottom of their great big hearts.
What does a 'home' seem like to the dog, newly arrived from a bumpy three day journey across Europe in a cage? Our shelter dogs have usually never had a home, so the term 're-homing' is n/a for them. They do not recognise fenced boundaries, they do not know what a vacuum cleaner or TV looks or sounds like. Some (the pups raised in the shelter) have hardly seen cars and never seen a child or a cat. What does a ' home' feel like to them? Its firstly a massive assault on their senses, particularly their noses. The smell of cooking or a wet woodland is mind blowing ! Let alone humans speaking and laughing, touching them, giving them a soft warm bed and delicious food. Going to sleep alone in silent darkness with no familiar bouts of barking to alert them, just strange creaks, or sirens, cars, or fireworks from outside the four walls that now surround them.
Then of course, they start to get used to this comfortable but strange life! Walking with something tied round their necks and sitting when their human waves a hand over their head, seems to be the only price they have to pay for a comfy sofa and perhaps ( if they are lucky) a furry friend. So they may start to 'guard' these luxuries and the person who dispenses them. Or they can feel afraid when someone new walks in their house and their only recourse is to bark and / or growl at them. They can respond to this huge change by loving us and accurately reading us, or by feeling even more insecure, that they have been taken out of their unpleasant but at least familiar comfort zone, the shelter or the street.
So what is our job as a member of that rare and precious breed, dog fosterers? Temporarily but crucially, to give them that first introduction to a home. To keep them safe and do no harm, physically or psychologically. Not to put them in a position where they have no choice, in their minds, but to lash out. To stop them bolting, either out of fear or curiosity, out of the front door, the car or the inadequately fenced garden. To feed them good food and give them exercise in order to build up their fragile health. To gently and gradually stimulate their brains in order to learn the ways of OUR world. To help them finally relax and discover their true and huge potential. If the dogs could speak, they would thank their dear fosterers from the bottom of their great big hearts.
Fosterers Friday - By Sarah Marie - 2015
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Years ago, while on holiday in Cuba, I stumbled across a stray beach dog - heartbreakingly skinny and nursing 9 puppies. After spending my days sneaking food from my hotel to feed her, along with clean water to wash the sand out of her babies’ eyes, I flew home and promised myself I would return for her. I tried everything I could but my mission proved too difficult. I still think of that sweet dog and pray she is fed and safe beneath her beach hut.
So when I discovered ‘Give a Dog a Home UK’, the incredible work the team does in helping overseas dogs really resonated with me. After speaking with Lynne and completing my home-check via Jackie, I received my first Romanian delivery - Jez, the wonder dog! |
Shaking, skittish and smelly, I had to carry him from the van into my home. Jez couldn’t trust me and rightly so. He’d been rescued from a Romanian death camp and had lived a hellish existence through no fault of his own.
We took our first night slowly. He’d been used to surviving by himself so it was important not to impose on his space. Slinking low with big, frightened eyes, Jez eventually crept towards me with his tail wagging nervously. He could sense I wished him no harm but a friendly human? Really?! It’s difficult to comprehend what must have been going on in his head that night.
Fast forward 24 hours and after a silent night’s sleep in his crate Jez was playing with his toys, racing around the house and already coming out of his shell. He followed me everywhere and over the next couple of days we experienced many “firsts” together. Jez had his first shampoo wash, went on his first walk using a lead and, for the first time in his four-year life, was learning to trust a human.
As I type this Jez is curled up and snoring under my right arm. He has slotted into our home like an old friend and even mastered a few new skills, such as “sit” and his toilet training. He’s still a little wary of strangers, sometimes ducking when people go to stroke his head too quickly - the memories of being struck in his former life. Loud noises and sudden movements continue to challenge him. Yet he surprises us every day by revealing a new side to his character and playful personality, rewarding us with kisses that signify just how far he has come.
These are not normal dogs. Life has dealt them a bad hand but despite everything they still have the ability to love and be loved in return. That’s the beauty of dog rescue. You open your heart just a little for these vulnerable dogs and they reward you with bucket loads of joy and loyalty in return.
Now my admission: it’s been less than a month since Jez arrived and we have succumbed to adoption. Fostering has not gone to plan this time, but helping to heal Jez’s wounds continues to be an incredibly gratifying experience. Yes, I am a “failed fosterer” but really there is no failure here – Jez is transforming into a loving pet and is transforming our lives, too. This special dog deserves his spot on our sofa and in our hearts.
We took our first night slowly. He’d been used to surviving by himself so it was important not to impose on his space. Slinking low with big, frightened eyes, Jez eventually crept towards me with his tail wagging nervously. He could sense I wished him no harm but a friendly human? Really?! It’s difficult to comprehend what must have been going on in his head that night.
Fast forward 24 hours and after a silent night’s sleep in his crate Jez was playing with his toys, racing around the house and already coming out of his shell. He followed me everywhere and over the next couple of days we experienced many “firsts” together. Jez had his first shampoo wash, went on his first walk using a lead and, for the first time in his four-year life, was learning to trust a human.
As I type this Jez is curled up and snoring under my right arm. He has slotted into our home like an old friend and even mastered a few new skills, such as “sit” and his toilet training. He’s still a little wary of strangers, sometimes ducking when people go to stroke his head too quickly - the memories of being struck in his former life. Loud noises and sudden movements continue to challenge him. Yet he surprises us every day by revealing a new side to his character and playful personality, rewarding us with kisses that signify just how far he has come.
These are not normal dogs. Life has dealt them a bad hand but despite everything they still have the ability to love and be loved in return. That’s the beauty of dog rescue. You open your heart just a little for these vulnerable dogs and they reward you with bucket loads of joy and loyalty in return.
Now my admission: it’s been less than a month since Jez arrived and we have succumbed to adoption. Fostering has not gone to plan this time, but helping to heal Jez’s wounds continues to be an incredibly gratifying experience. Yes, I am a “failed fosterer” but really there is no failure here – Jez is transforming into a loving pet and is transforming our lives, too. This special dog deserves his spot on our sofa and in our hearts.
Fosterers Friday - By Victoria - 2015
So I have been asked again to do another Fosters Friday piece, it’s been just over a year since my last one and 8 more fosters have graced our house with their love, affection and crazy personalities.
So do I give you a little synopsis about all those who we have had and their antics along the way or write a piece about me and my family and how fostering has changed our lives? Perhaps today we do the latter.
Though fostering was my decision it doesn't just affect me, it impacts on all my family and friends but I’m lucky to have their amazing support. They brave my house of dog hair to visit, or let me pop by with the dogs in tow, (That even included my nieces 6th birthday party and with not just one foster but two!) and join me on the many walks we take.
With every dog comes a different routine, as they all have different ways, different challenges, or on occasions real issues, but everyone understands and embraces this to help me guide the fosters along the path to being wonderful dogs, to being their true selves as they learn to deal with domestic life and the new world in which they find themselves.
We never know how our new foster is going to react to us, our home or the general environment. But this is all part of why fostering is so rewarding, it’s exciting to have a new dog into our home, and take them from that timid creature that won’t come out of the corner or the bundle of excitement jumping up at everyone and everything and setting them on the road to becoming a confident and well-mannered dog that can deal with life.
The time that fosters are with us changes from dog to dog, we have had some just a week or those that have stayed with us for 3-4 months. These are the ones you get a special bond with and learn so much about, in that time they grow attached, look to us for guidance and comfort, they become part of our family. I’m pleased to say I am still not a “failed fosterer” though we did come close as a family on two occasions this year when a couple of special ones came into our lives.
Back in the summer I agreed to foster Buster a tri paw from Cyprus, he was a real sweet boy with bundles of energy, but only having three legs never stopped him, when he arrived it was also clear he had little or no sight in one of his eyes and when you stroked him you could feel lead shot beneath his skin. This boy had been through so much but still gave you so much love, he loved everybody and everyone loved him. Buster fitted into our lives with no trouble and was a joy to have around.
At the same time as Buster was staying Etna arrived, and they were fantastic together. She was a softy, but she was not without her issues, I can’t remember the number of towels and blankets she destroyed before I caught her one day, told her off and she never did it again. Her biggest issue though was with new dogs, while living on the streets of Greece she had been attacked leaving massive scars down the side of her mouth and a portion of her tongue missing. This made her wary but with time she learned to get on and even play with all sorts of dogs, her favourite besides Buster being a great Dane! In the three months we had Etna she did go off to a home for a couple of days before being returned as unfortunately she decided she liked chasing their cat.
This was not the first time a dog had been returned to me and it’s hard to tell you how you feel when this happens. The sadness that you have not found the right home… was it something you should have picked up on when the adopters came to visit? has the dog done something they are not telling you? was it me not telling them enough about the dogs personality? Then you think about the dog, how confusing it must be for them, but it never lasts long as they always just slot straight back in as if they never left, and we continue as before till inevitably the right home is found.
When Etna’s did it was then I realised how much it affected my family. This was the first time they made a special visit to our house to say good bye, they were going to miss her. I spoke to them after and sure enough they confirmed had we not had a long holiday planned for later in the year they would have considered keeping her.
But go to a new home she and all the others did, and that is to whom my thanks and gratitude go, to the wonderful adopters who take on these amazing dogs who often are still not perfect and are still adapting to their new lives. Without them I would not be able to have had all the dogs that have been through my house, as I would still have Jay, foster number one. Its only the knowledge that my charges go to such wonderful and loving homes that I can bring myself to part with any of them..
As I think about them all, I feel a real sense of accomplishment and when I open the “My Pictures” folder on my computer and see all their albums it makes me smile and reaffirms to me just how much I love fostering. Together we make our way through all the challenges until that perfect home comes along and I have to say good bye. It is a truly a bittersweet day, our parting , yet for them the start of the rest of their lives.
So do I give you a little synopsis about all those who we have had and their antics along the way or write a piece about me and my family and how fostering has changed our lives? Perhaps today we do the latter.
Though fostering was my decision it doesn't just affect me, it impacts on all my family and friends but I’m lucky to have their amazing support. They brave my house of dog hair to visit, or let me pop by with the dogs in tow, (That even included my nieces 6th birthday party and with not just one foster but two!) and join me on the many walks we take.
With every dog comes a different routine, as they all have different ways, different challenges, or on occasions real issues, but everyone understands and embraces this to help me guide the fosters along the path to being wonderful dogs, to being their true selves as they learn to deal with domestic life and the new world in which they find themselves.
We never know how our new foster is going to react to us, our home or the general environment. But this is all part of why fostering is so rewarding, it’s exciting to have a new dog into our home, and take them from that timid creature that won’t come out of the corner or the bundle of excitement jumping up at everyone and everything and setting them on the road to becoming a confident and well-mannered dog that can deal with life.
The time that fosters are with us changes from dog to dog, we have had some just a week or those that have stayed with us for 3-4 months. These are the ones you get a special bond with and learn so much about, in that time they grow attached, look to us for guidance and comfort, they become part of our family. I’m pleased to say I am still not a “failed fosterer” though we did come close as a family on two occasions this year when a couple of special ones came into our lives.
Back in the summer I agreed to foster Buster a tri paw from Cyprus, he was a real sweet boy with bundles of energy, but only having three legs never stopped him, when he arrived it was also clear he had little or no sight in one of his eyes and when you stroked him you could feel lead shot beneath his skin. This boy had been through so much but still gave you so much love, he loved everybody and everyone loved him. Buster fitted into our lives with no trouble and was a joy to have around.
At the same time as Buster was staying Etna arrived, and they were fantastic together. She was a softy, but she was not without her issues, I can’t remember the number of towels and blankets she destroyed before I caught her one day, told her off and she never did it again. Her biggest issue though was with new dogs, while living on the streets of Greece she had been attacked leaving massive scars down the side of her mouth and a portion of her tongue missing. This made her wary but with time she learned to get on and even play with all sorts of dogs, her favourite besides Buster being a great Dane! In the three months we had Etna she did go off to a home for a couple of days before being returned as unfortunately she decided she liked chasing their cat.
This was not the first time a dog had been returned to me and it’s hard to tell you how you feel when this happens. The sadness that you have not found the right home… was it something you should have picked up on when the adopters came to visit? has the dog done something they are not telling you? was it me not telling them enough about the dogs personality? Then you think about the dog, how confusing it must be for them, but it never lasts long as they always just slot straight back in as if they never left, and we continue as before till inevitably the right home is found.
When Etna’s did it was then I realised how much it affected my family. This was the first time they made a special visit to our house to say good bye, they were going to miss her. I spoke to them after and sure enough they confirmed had we not had a long holiday planned for later in the year they would have considered keeping her.
But go to a new home she and all the others did, and that is to whom my thanks and gratitude go, to the wonderful adopters who take on these amazing dogs who often are still not perfect and are still adapting to their new lives. Without them I would not be able to have had all the dogs that have been through my house, as I would still have Jay, foster number one. Its only the knowledge that my charges go to such wonderful and loving homes that I can bring myself to part with any of them..
As I think about them all, I feel a real sense of accomplishment and when I open the “My Pictures” folder on my computer and see all their albums it makes me smile and reaffirms to me just how much I love fostering. Together we make our way through all the challenges until that perfect home comes along and I have to say good bye. It is a truly a bittersweet day, our parting , yet for them the start of the rest of their lives.
Fosterers Friday - By Claire - 2015
I recently ventured into fostering, probably to ease my guilt at having bought a pedigree nearly 5 years ago; don’t get me wrong, I love my flat-coat Riley dearly but back then I was very ignorant to the plight of rescues and the sheer scale of the problem. I found myself with some spare time on my hands and, living in the rural countryside, a little isolated so thought I would get involved in some sort of charity work and fostering for GADAH gave me the perfect opportunity.
When I went along to meet all the doggies off the latest transport from Greece, it wasn’t decided which dog would become my first foster but one doggy stole my heart – Arild. Dumped as a puppy outside the shelter, he’d then gone on to remain there for a whole 2 yrs! It was therefore immensely rewarding to be able to witness his experiencing all the sights, sounds and smells of the English countryside, to offer him the stimulation of training, playtime and walks and the reassurance of a loving home.
We weren’t prepared for just what a gorgeous & affectionate boy he would be and wrestled with the decision to adopt or not adopt ourselves over the 4 months he graced our home; thankfully as time passed, We realised that although he’d captured our hearts, our home wasn’t suited to his specific needs. We couldn’t have been happier when the perfect home materialised – acres of fenced fields for him (& his hound nose) to safely run free and burn off his boundless energy so saying goodbye proved to be such “sweet sorrow” – sad to be parted but joyous seeing him content in his forever home. He has left a big impression on us all but we feel blessed that we were able to play a part in his journey to the life he so richly deserves.
I’ll leave you with the meaning of FOSTER in the dictionary...”encourage the development of something, especially something desirable”. Now “Rescue” is my favourite breed!
When I went along to meet all the doggies off the latest transport from Greece, it wasn’t decided which dog would become my first foster but one doggy stole my heart – Arild. Dumped as a puppy outside the shelter, he’d then gone on to remain there for a whole 2 yrs! It was therefore immensely rewarding to be able to witness his experiencing all the sights, sounds and smells of the English countryside, to offer him the stimulation of training, playtime and walks and the reassurance of a loving home.
We weren’t prepared for just what a gorgeous & affectionate boy he would be and wrestled with the decision to adopt or not adopt ourselves over the 4 months he graced our home; thankfully as time passed, We realised that although he’d captured our hearts, our home wasn’t suited to his specific needs. We couldn’t have been happier when the perfect home materialised – acres of fenced fields for him (& his hound nose) to safely run free and burn off his boundless energy so saying goodbye proved to be such “sweet sorrow” – sad to be parted but joyous seeing him content in his forever home. He has left a big impression on us all but we feel blessed that we were able to play a part in his journey to the life he so richly deserves.
I’ll leave you with the meaning of FOSTER in the dictionary...”encourage the development of something, especially something desirable”. Now “Rescue” is my favourite breed!
Fosterer Friday - By Sarah - 2015
Becoming a fosterer of rescue dogs was a decision that came about after seeing countless photos of dogs in need on Facebook. Although we have 3 rescue cats, we are also huge dog lovers & have 2 of our own, neither of which are rescues but it's always been something we wanted to get involved with. We considered adopting a rescue but that would mean only helping one dog! So with trepidation we decided to try fostering with the aim of making a difference to lots of dogs lives. So the time came when we were due to collect our first foster dog the following day & we were filled with a mix of emotions, mainly excitement but also rather nervous of what to expect, how our resident fur babies would adapt to a new member & worried about how we would cope with an anxious, frightened dog. That evening we had a long pep talk with one of the wonderfully supportive members of Give a Dog a Home which put a lot of our concerns to rest & after a relatively sleepless night (similar to the feeling a child gets on Christmas Eve!) we were up early & eager to meet our first foster dog.
When we met Barney he was a beautiful timid boy but very nervous & very scared. He had to be carried to the car as he was frozen to the spot with a look of terror in his eyes. This continued when we arrived home, he would not move so we carried him indoors, put him on his comfy bed in his crate & left him to take it all in at his own pace. He just sat there for hours, despite the crate door being wide open he made no attempt to come out & investigate his new surroundings. This was all very new to us too so we decided encourage him out for a toilet break but he wouldn't budge so we had to carry him into the garden & once he'd had a wee (still standing frozen to the spot!) we carried him back to his crate. This continued for a couple of days. He stayed in his crate, ate his meals & was carried to & from the garden. We were very concerned but knew that he needed time so just carried on with gentle encouragement & giving him the space he clearly needed. Then on day 3 we had a breakthrough. He came out of his crate & started wondering about & exploring. He even instigated a game with one of our dogs. We breathed a sigh of relief & slowly but surely day by day this stunningly handsome boy became braver & more relaxed. As we gained his trust, his fabulous character started to show & a few months later he found the most perfect forever home & we still get updates that his confidence is still improving everyday. Despite missing him terribly at first, that feeling is totally outweighed by such an amazing sense of achievement, WE helped that boy become the happy family pet he is today & we couldn't be prouder of him.
We now have our second foster dog & haven't looked back. Rudy is not as nervous but still a challenge, he's a proper cheeky chap & constantly pushes the boundaries. But he makes us laugh everyday & with a personality like that we just know he's destined to make another family very happy. But for now we are more than honoured to have him as part of ours & will continue to help him grow & flourish. Fostering is not easy by any means but thoroughly worth it & one of the best things we have done. Not only do you teach each dog many new things but they teach you so much in return. We look forward to a future of helping many more dogs along the emotional rescue road to happiness...
When we met Barney he was a beautiful timid boy but very nervous & very scared. He had to be carried to the car as he was frozen to the spot with a look of terror in his eyes. This continued when we arrived home, he would not move so we carried him indoors, put him on his comfy bed in his crate & left him to take it all in at his own pace. He just sat there for hours, despite the crate door being wide open he made no attempt to come out & investigate his new surroundings. This was all very new to us too so we decided encourage him out for a toilet break but he wouldn't budge so we had to carry him into the garden & once he'd had a wee (still standing frozen to the spot!) we carried him back to his crate. This continued for a couple of days. He stayed in his crate, ate his meals & was carried to & from the garden. We were very concerned but knew that he needed time so just carried on with gentle encouragement & giving him the space he clearly needed. Then on day 3 we had a breakthrough. He came out of his crate & started wondering about & exploring. He even instigated a game with one of our dogs. We breathed a sigh of relief & slowly but surely day by day this stunningly handsome boy became braver & more relaxed. As we gained his trust, his fabulous character started to show & a few months later he found the most perfect forever home & we still get updates that his confidence is still improving everyday. Despite missing him terribly at first, that feeling is totally outweighed by such an amazing sense of achievement, WE helped that boy become the happy family pet he is today & we couldn't be prouder of him.
We now have our second foster dog & haven't looked back. Rudy is not as nervous but still a challenge, he's a proper cheeky chap & constantly pushes the boundaries. But he makes us laugh everyday & with a personality like that we just know he's destined to make another family very happy. But for now we are more than honoured to have him as part of ours & will continue to help him grow & flourish. Fostering is not easy by any means but thoroughly worth it & one of the best things we have done. Not only do you teach each dog many new things but they teach you so much in return. We look forward to a future of helping many more dogs along the emotional rescue road to happiness...
Fosterers Friday - By Miranda - 2015
Its Foster Friday AGAIN! Comes round fast! This is lovely Flo's lovely fosterer: Having come to fostering because of my insatiable need for another dog, I have been greatly rewarded. I am only one dog in and although I knew there would be emotional ups and downs, the overwhelming excitement at prospective adopters, and the disappointment at having "your dog" rejected, can be tiresome.But then "your dog" comes up and settles next to you and you get the energy to do it all again.
Some of these dogs come with issues... who doesn't? But all they need is time, patience and love, and that is not hard to give. They give it to you in abundance without even thinking about it.
Welcome to the world of fostering, with all the joy and pleasure it brings.Please join us - its very character forming!
Some of these dogs come with issues... who doesn't? But all they need is time, patience and love, and that is not hard to give. They give it to you in abundance without even thinking about it.
Welcome to the world of fostering, with all the joy and pleasure it brings.Please join us - its very character forming!
Foster Friday - By Kay - 2015
I've only had two foster dogs so far, Tessa AKA Tasha and (sat on the sofa beside me) Volga AKA Olga/Lula - Now that shows what a bad Fosterer I am, sat on the sofa!!! Sorry but I will be useless at training. The main thing for my dogs is that they come when called. Apart from that they are quite an unruly but happy crowd. 4 rescues and two extravagances, a pomchon and big gsd. The gsd is now old doubly incontinent, but happy, pain free and very loved.
I've got a very doggy background, my parents had large boarding and breeding kennels and I lived amongst a big group of bull terriers. Sure us kids came way down the list of priorities!!!
I've been married 38 years, yes I was a child bride, and have had so many dogs I've lost count. We've lived for 34 years in a fairly isolated house with a big garden in the middle of a common, so ideal for dogs. No children.
A lot of our earlier rescues came when the council used to put old peoples dogs with mum when they went into care. I ended up with many like that. Then I used to do homing some years ago for the local Rspca and ended up with two more unhomeable Jack Russells and a deaf Collie. I am kept very busy with the dogs, plus 10 cats, an elderly mum with me, chickens, geese, ferrets and a husband, who adores all the dogs.
Loving the fostering, but have got attached to Olga, so lucky she's just going next door to live!!! Looking forward to Zorro next. I would recommend fostering, OK it's hard not getting too attached but it's very rewarding to help in your wonderful work and they are such fantastic dogs.
I've got a very doggy background, my parents had large boarding and breeding kennels and I lived amongst a big group of bull terriers. Sure us kids came way down the list of priorities!!!
I've been married 38 years, yes I was a child bride, and have had so many dogs I've lost count. We've lived for 34 years in a fairly isolated house with a big garden in the middle of a common, so ideal for dogs. No children.
A lot of our earlier rescues came when the council used to put old peoples dogs with mum when they went into care. I ended up with many like that. Then I used to do homing some years ago for the local Rspca and ended up with two more unhomeable Jack Russells and a deaf Collie. I am kept very busy with the dogs, plus 10 cats, an elderly mum with me, chickens, geese, ferrets and a husband, who adores all the dogs.
Loving the fostering, but have got attached to Olga, so lucky she's just going next door to live!!! Looking forward to Zorro next. I would recommend fostering, OK it's hard not getting too attached but it's very rewarding to help in your wonderful work and they are such fantastic dogs.
Foster Friday - By Hannah - 2014
My fostering experience is brief but, in a way, it has actually spanned my whole life.From the instant I was old enough to think, my main desire in life was to have a dog. As a child, every star, birthday cake, dandelion clock that I wished upon bore the same request: 'I wish I had a dog'.
But it wasn't until I reached adulthood that I was able to accommodate a canine companion. Fostering a rescue dog seemed like the perfect next move. There's something special about a rescued animal that sets them apart from others. They really appreciate every little gift their new, safe life gives them. Something I've always found remarkable about rescued animals is that they rarely lose the ability to love or to trust humans. Even animals saved from a life of abuse still possess a huge capacity to love, and to be loved. They are happy just to have a safe place to sleep, a full stomach and a cuddle.
They don't want for more. Diving straight into the deep end, perhaps, my first dog was to be a foster dog from Greece! I heard Andy's story - a young street dog who had already been poisoned, attacked and contracted leishmaniasis. His was an upsetting story but, I knew this couldn’t be his life story. I fell in love with him before he even set foot on British land and sincerely hoped that I could give him the care he has always rightly deserved. His leishmoniasis didn't faze me. He is, after all, of no risk to humans or other dogs and is easily treated with low-cost medication. He can live a full life and leishmaniasis doesn't diminish his need for happiness. Besides, I have many a health condition myself, so who am I to judge? Before I knew it, Andy had arrived in the UK. It was time to pick him up. I was filled with excitement but also many worries; will I, an inexperienced newbie, be able to care for a potentially troubled dog? Will he be a nightmare to train? Will he hate us? Will he try to attack our guinea pigs? But when I first set eyes on Andy my fears melted away. His face lit up in his (now characteristic) quirky smile, his bushy fox tail wagged like a pendulum and his (surprisingly plump!) body bounded towards me with a playful clumsiness. For the first few days, Andy was a mixture of nervousness and excitement. He was so happy to see us but, at the same time, scared of what we might do to him. But soon he learned that our hands brought him treats and our voices were nothing to fear.
Somehow, despite never having set foot in a real home, he was house-trained by instinct alone! We were prepared for accidents but never had a single one. Most importantly of all, Andy did not see the guinea pigs as prey, finding his own food far more palatable. Andy fitted into our family like a key in a lock and shows us how grateful he is every second of every day. I really do urge all prospective dog owners to rescue a dog, rather than go to a breeder. Why bring more dogs into the world when there are already so many who are just waiting for a home? Finally, I will end with a confession. I am by no means a textbook example of a perfect Fosterer...I failed at the first hurdle! Andy became so much a part of my life that I have crumbled into adoption. As soppy as this final note may sound, my childhood wishes have finally come true.
But it wasn't until I reached adulthood that I was able to accommodate a canine companion. Fostering a rescue dog seemed like the perfect next move. There's something special about a rescued animal that sets them apart from others. They really appreciate every little gift their new, safe life gives them. Something I've always found remarkable about rescued animals is that they rarely lose the ability to love or to trust humans. Even animals saved from a life of abuse still possess a huge capacity to love, and to be loved. They are happy just to have a safe place to sleep, a full stomach and a cuddle.
They don't want for more. Diving straight into the deep end, perhaps, my first dog was to be a foster dog from Greece! I heard Andy's story - a young street dog who had already been poisoned, attacked and contracted leishmaniasis. His was an upsetting story but, I knew this couldn’t be his life story. I fell in love with him before he even set foot on British land and sincerely hoped that I could give him the care he has always rightly deserved. His leishmoniasis didn't faze me. He is, after all, of no risk to humans or other dogs and is easily treated with low-cost medication. He can live a full life and leishmaniasis doesn't diminish his need for happiness. Besides, I have many a health condition myself, so who am I to judge? Before I knew it, Andy had arrived in the UK. It was time to pick him up. I was filled with excitement but also many worries; will I, an inexperienced newbie, be able to care for a potentially troubled dog? Will he be a nightmare to train? Will he hate us? Will he try to attack our guinea pigs? But when I first set eyes on Andy my fears melted away. His face lit up in his (now characteristic) quirky smile, his bushy fox tail wagged like a pendulum and his (surprisingly plump!) body bounded towards me with a playful clumsiness. For the first few days, Andy was a mixture of nervousness and excitement. He was so happy to see us but, at the same time, scared of what we might do to him. But soon he learned that our hands brought him treats and our voices were nothing to fear.
Somehow, despite never having set foot in a real home, he was house-trained by instinct alone! We were prepared for accidents but never had a single one. Most importantly of all, Andy did not see the guinea pigs as prey, finding his own food far more palatable. Andy fitted into our family like a key in a lock and shows us how grateful he is every second of every day. I really do urge all prospective dog owners to rescue a dog, rather than go to a breeder. Why bring more dogs into the world when there are already so many who are just waiting for a home? Finally, I will end with a confession. I am by no means a textbook example of a perfect Fosterer...I failed at the first hurdle! Andy became so much a part of my life that I have crumbled into adoption. As soppy as this final note may sound, my childhood wishes have finally come true.
Fosterers Friday - By Amanda - 2014
I think it was probably March of this year, 2 months after having our second child, that I said to my husband - "please, please, can we have another one?"
I didn't mean a baby! No, I meant a foster dog! I had said good bye to my last one 2 days after having had Caleb and I was getting withdrawal symptoms. Lynne had put me on "forced" maternity leave and although with 2 children under 2, I still found myself twiddling my thumbs to help a little canine soul in need.
This in truth, is what happens when you sign up to being a fosterer. Addiction! It's a steep, slippery slope, but admittedly one that is largely covered in caramel. Once you're in, you just don't want to stop. And why would you when there are so many in need and the payback is limitless.
I home checked a couple last weekend, who have offered their time as fosterers. I could sense the undercurrents of excitement and apprehension, and I smiled deep down. I remember this feeling. I get it every time I go to collect my new member of the family, for they will be a member of my family whether their stay is 48 hours, or 6 months. And they will break my heart when they leave me for their new and forever homes. But, oh the joy of knowing that I had a little impact on their lives, that I was a stepping stone to contentment.
Adopters are incredible people. They are our life blood. But fosterers.... well you guys are gold dust, an essential cog in the mechanism of re-homing dogs in need. And what a team we have already established within GADAH.
But we're always on the look out for new fosterers, so if you're thinking of a New Year's resolution, then how about becoming an "addict". It'll be a hell of a lot more fun than giving up chocolate and booze!!
I didn't mean a baby! No, I meant a foster dog! I had said good bye to my last one 2 days after having had Caleb and I was getting withdrawal symptoms. Lynne had put me on "forced" maternity leave and although with 2 children under 2, I still found myself twiddling my thumbs to help a little canine soul in need.
This in truth, is what happens when you sign up to being a fosterer. Addiction! It's a steep, slippery slope, but admittedly one that is largely covered in caramel. Once you're in, you just don't want to stop. And why would you when there are so many in need and the payback is limitless.
I home checked a couple last weekend, who have offered their time as fosterers. I could sense the undercurrents of excitement and apprehension, and I smiled deep down. I remember this feeling. I get it every time I go to collect my new member of the family, for they will be a member of my family whether their stay is 48 hours, or 6 months. And they will break my heart when they leave me for their new and forever homes. But, oh the joy of knowing that I had a little impact on their lives, that I was a stepping stone to contentment.
Adopters are incredible people. They are our life blood. But fosterers.... well you guys are gold dust, an essential cog in the mechanism of re-homing dogs in need. And what a team we have already established within GADAH.
But we're always on the look out for new fosterers, so if you're thinking of a New Year's resolution, then how about becoming an "addict". It'll be a hell of a lot more fun than giving up chocolate and booze!!
Foster Friday - By Victoria - 2013
It is truly a roller coaster, this fostering malarkey, the anticipation of their arrival and the wonder of what is will turn up and how they will be. There are the the highs and lows of having them in your life followed by the emotional good byes when they leave for their forever home, and in our case also dealing with their return. However, it is a ride Paris (My Jack Russell) and I are happy to stay on.
It started back in the summer when I agreed to take on Jay. I was told he was a sweet little chap with a wonky eye. What greeted me when I went to collect him was a slightly larger than anticipated & petrified dog. He had to be carried to the car and then carried into the house (which included me getting peed on in the process) and once inside didn’t move for over an hour. His progress was a slow journey of discovery and a gradual build-up of courage. By the time he left me three weeks later he had blossomed into a handsome, social, playful and well-mannered chap.
As Jay left the house for his forever home we started to discuss who I would be prepared to foster next and I agreed to take Rigas on as he was not doing well being in the kennels. He stayed with me for just four days as he had a home which sadly didn’t work out but by this time Samson had arrived into our lives so unfortunately there was no way I could have Rigas back. Thankfully Paul kindly stepped in to foster him
Samson has now been with me for around 12 weeks and in that time he has had to go on his holidays to Andy and even been off to what we had hoped would be his forever home, but due to circumstances that had nothing to do with him he was returned. So he sits curled up on his cushion behind me once again, chilling out for the evening. Samson has given our ride the biggest ups and downs, he is a very lively character but with a heart full of love. We have come so far over these past weeks. We are now to the point where we can now go out for a gentle stroll without being dragged along, and I can go out without him barking the house down. We still have stuff to work on but he would make someone a lovely dog and we hope he finds that person soon.
But now we prepare for the next phase as we await the arrival of Fred and hope that he also enjoys the ride as much as the rest of us.
It started back in the summer when I agreed to take on Jay. I was told he was a sweet little chap with a wonky eye. What greeted me when I went to collect him was a slightly larger than anticipated & petrified dog. He had to be carried to the car and then carried into the house (which included me getting peed on in the process) and once inside didn’t move for over an hour. His progress was a slow journey of discovery and a gradual build-up of courage. By the time he left me three weeks later he had blossomed into a handsome, social, playful and well-mannered chap.
As Jay left the house for his forever home we started to discuss who I would be prepared to foster next and I agreed to take Rigas on as he was not doing well being in the kennels. He stayed with me for just four days as he had a home which sadly didn’t work out but by this time Samson had arrived into our lives so unfortunately there was no way I could have Rigas back. Thankfully Paul kindly stepped in to foster him
Samson has now been with me for around 12 weeks and in that time he has had to go on his holidays to Andy and even been off to what we had hoped would be his forever home, but due to circumstances that had nothing to do with him he was returned. So he sits curled up on his cushion behind me once again, chilling out for the evening. Samson has given our ride the biggest ups and downs, he is a very lively character but with a heart full of love. We have come so far over these past weeks. We are now to the point where we can now go out for a gentle stroll without being dragged along, and I can go out without him barking the house down. We still have stuff to work on but he would make someone a lovely dog and we hope he finds that person soon.
But now we prepare for the next phase as we await the arrival of Fred and hope that he also enjoys the ride as much as the rest of us.
Foster Friday - By Kerry - 2013
Kerry here ! I have fostered several cats and dogs before and have sometimes been a ‘failed fosterer’, so my flat is quite a menagerie! (We got some rats recently). Luckily my son Jack loves animals too and does not mind me introducing new ones at regular intervals. My little granddaughter also loves visiting to see the latest addition – she adores Amado, one of the two ‘Lottie Rotties’ I have here at present. Amado was probably the ‘runt’ of the litter and is still a baby but his big brother Elvis looks after him admirably.
Before these two, I fostered Melody for Give a Dog a Home. She was a confident , clever dog who has gone to live with a nice family in Burgess Hill. Followed by little Rio and black and tan Sally. Rio was so scared I was worried for him but we hear regular reports of how he is gradually coming out of his shell.
I love fostering, as it so rewarding seeing the new arrivals blossom from being overwhelmed, orphaned youngsters into confident, happy individuals. It keeps me fit climbing the stairs to my garden several times a day in an effort to house train them!
I have also helped on the transport run, which is interesting if a little uncomfortable for a few days, as we hardly stop once we are off the Italian ferry and have to snatch a sleep with the dogs! It is a responsible job as we have peoples’ life companions in our care.
Also volunteering on the transport means I have seen the Elpida Shelter of Hope and the marvellous care Stavroula gives the 60+ dogs every day, 7 days a week, all on her own. I wish I could do more to help her but caring for her dogs and preparing them for a life in the UK is one way I really can contribute.
Before these two, I fostered Melody for Give a Dog a Home. She was a confident , clever dog who has gone to live with a nice family in Burgess Hill. Followed by little Rio and black and tan Sally. Rio was so scared I was worried for him but we hear regular reports of how he is gradually coming out of his shell.
I love fostering, as it so rewarding seeing the new arrivals blossom from being overwhelmed, orphaned youngsters into confident, happy individuals. It keeps me fit climbing the stairs to my garden several times a day in an effort to house train them!
I have also helped on the transport run, which is interesting if a little uncomfortable for a few days, as we hardly stop once we are off the Italian ferry and have to snatch a sleep with the dogs! It is a responsible job as we have peoples’ life companions in our care.
Also volunteering on the transport means I have seen the Elpida Shelter of Hope and the marvellous care Stavroula gives the 60+ dogs every day, 7 days a week, all on her own. I wish I could do more to help her but caring for her dogs and preparing them for a life in the UK is one way I really can contribute.
Foster Friday - By Jenny and Bill - 2013
From a young age I have been around dogs and enjoyed their company, seeing their face when you walk through the front door and be greeted by their wagging tail gives you a warm fuzzy feeling! I left home to begin a University course in Brighton and I completely underestimated the change of living. Firstly it was just myself and my partner Bill living together, but secondly I no longer had a waggy tail following me around the house. Bill wasn't that fussed by the thought of having a dog, but one day on my return from University I was greeted by a picture of our new puppy to be!
So now we have a gorgeous (if a bit cheeky) Labrador X Staffy, Skye. She was very hyperactive so we spent a lot of time in training her including taking her to agility classes once she was old enough. We soon realised that whilst she thought she was a human and loved living with us, she also loved the company of other dogs. We spent (and still spend) almost every day on rescue pages. We wanted another dog, however with our sensible hats on we decided that instead, we should foster. Lynne came to do our home check and met our (bonkers) dog! She agreed that we were suitable to be fosterers, and it all began!
It all happened quite quickly then. Bill had been looking on the Elpida page for weeks and he had been going on and on about one particular dog, Blossom. What we found out a few days later that it was in fact Blossom who would be our very first foster dog!
I went to collect Blossom soon after. She looked tired, scared and dirty. Lynne and I got her in the car and she lay there, frozen until we reached home. We pulled up and Bill came to meet her with Skye. I lifted her gently out of the car and put her on the floor. She wouldn't move. I carried her into the house and made it secure to let her free. It took her just over 3 hours to build up the courage to follow Skye through the front door into the house. Poor pup.
From then on we were determined to build her confidence and show her how to enjoy life here in England. Within days she had a bath, went confidently on walks, met other dogs and people, met a family cat and other family dogs and learnt: her name, to sit and to come. Her training transpired to be very easy… she was a food fanatic! We found this out the hard way, TWICE!! The first she had a whole dish of sliced gammon off the kitchen side (she only got one piece before she was rumbled from the crash of the dish on the floor!). The second she fancied Chinese...so helped herself to the leftovers whilst Skye saw us coming and looked at her as if to say “that’s really naughty I’m going to bed just to prove it was you who did it, Blossom!”.
We ended up having Bloss Bloss for six weeks. She came on holiday with us and had become part of our family very quickly. She was beautiful and despite her food addiction, she was truly a perfect dog.
She had a fair amount of interest from potential adopters but for one reason or another it didn’t work out. Eventually she got adopted and, if we’re honest, we were heartbroken! She had become part of our family. She greeted us with such excitement, a very long and waggy tail and always LOVED fuss and attention. But whilst we felt such heartbreak, we knew that it was the right thing for her and we know she is VERY happy in her new home. Her new owners are so friendly and she gets to live with not one but TWO other dogs!
So that is the story of our first foster dog. It’s a rollercoaster, but it’s worth every second.
So now we have a gorgeous (if a bit cheeky) Labrador X Staffy, Skye. She was very hyperactive so we spent a lot of time in training her including taking her to agility classes once she was old enough. We soon realised that whilst she thought she was a human and loved living with us, she also loved the company of other dogs. We spent (and still spend) almost every day on rescue pages. We wanted another dog, however with our sensible hats on we decided that instead, we should foster. Lynne came to do our home check and met our (bonkers) dog! She agreed that we were suitable to be fosterers, and it all began!
It all happened quite quickly then. Bill had been looking on the Elpida page for weeks and he had been going on and on about one particular dog, Blossom. What we found out a few days later that it was in fact Blossom who would be our very first foster dog!
I went to collect Blossom soon after. She looked tired, scared and dirty. Lynne and I got her in the car and she lay there, frozen until we reached home. We pulled up and Bill came to meet her with Skye. I lifted her gently out of the car and put her on the floor. She wouldn't move. I carried her into the house and made it secure to let her free. It took her just over 3 hours to build up the courage to follow Skye through the front door into the house. Poor pup.
From then on we were determined to build her confidence and show her how to enjoy life here in England. Within days she had a bath, went confidently on walks, met other dogs and people, met a family cat and other family dogs and learnt: her name, to sit and to come. Her training transpired to be very easy… she was a food fanatic! We found this out the hard way, TWICE!! The first she had a whole dish of sliced gammon off the kitchen side (she only got one piece before she was rumbled from the crash of the dish on the floor!). The second she fancied Chinese...so helped herself to the leftovers whilst Skye saw us coming and looked at her as if to say “that’s really naughty I’m going to bed just to prove it was you who did it, Blossom!”.
We ended up having Bloss Bloss for six weeks. She came on holiday with us and had become part of our family very quickly. She was beautiful and despite her food addiction, she was truly a perfect dog.
She had a fair amount of interest from potential adopters but for one reason or another it didn’t work out. Eventually she got adopted and, if we’re honest, we were heartbroken! She had become part of our family. She greeted us with such excitement, a very long and waggy tail and always LOVED fuss and attention. But whilst we felt such heartbreak, we knew that it was the right thing for her and we know she is VERY happy in her new home. Her new owners are so friendly and she gets to live with not one but TWO other dogs!
So that is the story of our first foster dog. It’s a rollercoaster, but it’s worth every second.
Foster Friday - By Marise - 2013
I have only been fostering for a short while for Elpida Shelter of Hope and it all really happened by chance or shall we say fate.
I had been following a local dog rescue on Facebook for a few months when they asked one morning if anyone was available to give them a hand. This is my chance I thought, I dragged my 15 year old son out of bed and we both shot up there to help. He did some walking while I shovelled more poo than I thought possible, not glamorous at all but we both came home with the feeling that we had helped a little. After that we would pop up to walk if we had some free time, this became a family affair with my husband and 7 year old daughter joining in. We always came home feeling contented and hoping we had made a small difference to the lovely dogs. Then I started to do some home checks in the local area. Wow, what a feeling that was. Knowing your helping in finding these dogs their forever homes was extremely satisfying as well.
Then, we discovered there was a dog who was really struggling with being in kennels at the rescue centre. My husband and I took pity on him and offered to foster him at our home with our 2 dogs and 3 cats. Wow, what a shock to the system that was. We sadly didn't manage to keep him that long but the information we managed to get in that short time meant he found his forever home within a week. When we returned him they all laughed and said they were amazed we lasted that long. The rescue centre had just received their latest delivery of dogs that morning from Ireland, and we didn't want to leave empty handed so we left with a 14 week old border collie puppy. Oh my, what fun we had. Poor little mite was a little unwell at first but an absolute pleasure to have. He found his forever home two weeks later and I think we all cried a little when he left. We fostered a few more over the next couple of months and still managed to go up and walk the dogs when we could and I did more home checks.
The next part to our fostering story, was fated I'm sure. On one of my days off from work, I decided to go and walk some dogs on my own and I met Rigas and Lady, I was told how they had come from Greece and so I took them for a walk. Both of them were beautiful dogs. I came home telling my husband all about them and so that weekend we went back and he got to experience walking them too. I then was asked to do a home check for the lovely Lady, which I was over the moon to do. After a successful home check Lady went to her forever home. My next visit to the kennels was probably the one that counted the most. Whilst walking a couple of the dogs along the lane I saw this delightful woman walking towards me with the lovely Rigas. I stopped and chatted about the dogs and discovered the woman's name was Lynne. She explained to me about Elpida and Giveadogahome. I went home and looked them up and started to follow them on Facebook. What can I say other than I was hooked. I wanted to help but I didn't know what I could do with it being so far away. I set up a monthly donation but it still wasn't enough, so when Lynne contacted me and asked if we would consider fostering we jumped at it. We've only had one dog for Elpida so far, our little Ralph. What a character that little man is, we had him for a month and he was a delight. Such a polite and well mannered little dog, everyone loved him including my dogs. He's been gone a couple of weeks now and I receive regular emails from his new family. We still miss him every day but if he'd stayed with us we wouldn't be able to help anymore. We're now waiting to hopefully meet another little friend from Greece.
It's not a lot that we do as fosterers, we just give them love, lots of cuddles and some time. I wish I could do more, especially when I see all the suffering that goes on in Greece and all over the world. I'd save them all if I could.
I had been following a local dog rescue on Facebook for a few months when they asked one morning if anyone was available to give them a hand. This is my chance I thought, I dragged my 15 year old son out of bed and we both shot up there to help. He did some walking while I shovelled more poo than I thought possible, not glamorous at all but we both came home with the feeling that we had helped a little. After that we would pop up to walk if we had some free time, this became a family affair with my husband and 7 year old daughter joining in. We always came home feeling contented and hoping we had made a small difference to the lovely dogs. Then I started to do some home checks in the local area. Wow, what a feeling that was. Knowing your helping in finding these dogs their forever homes was extremely satisfying as well.
Then, we discovered there was a dog who was really struggling with being in kennels at the rescue centre. My husband and I took pity on him and offered to foster him at our home with our 2 dogs and 3 cats. Wow, what a shock to the system that was. We sadly didn't manage to keep him that long but the information we managed to get in that short time meant he found his forever home within a week. When we returned him they all laughed and said they were amazed we lasted that long. The rescue centre had just received their latest delivery of dogs that morning from Ireland, and we didn't want to leave empty handed so we left with a 14 week old border collie puppy. Oh my, what fun we had. Poor little mite was a little unwell at first but an absolute pleasure to have. He found his forever home two weeks later and I think we all cried a little when he left. We fostered a few more over the next couple of months and still managed to go up and walk the dogs when we could and I did more home checks.
The next part to our fostering story, was fated I'm sure. On one of my days off from work, I decided to go and walk some dogs on my own and I met Rigas and Lady, I was told how they had come from Greece and so I took them for a walk. Both of them were beautiful dogs. I came home telling my husband all about them and so that weekend we went back and he got to experience walking them too. I then was asked to do a home check for the lovely Lady, which I was over the moon to do. After a successful home check Lady went to her forever home. My next visit to the kennels was probably the one that counted the most. Whilst walking a couple of the dogs along the lane I saw this delightful woman walking towards me with the lovely Rigas. I stopped and chatted about the dogs and discovered the woman's name was Lynne. She explained to me about Elpida and Giveadogahome. I went home and looked them up and started to follow them on Facebook. What can I say other than I was hooked. I wanted to help but I didn't know what I could do with it being so far away. I set up a monthly donation but it still wasn't enough, so when Lynne contacted me and asked if we would consider fostering we jumped at it. We've only had one dog for Elpida so far, our little Ralph. What a character that little man is, we had him for a month and he was a delight. Such a polite and well mannered little dog, everyone loved him including my dogs. He's been gone a couple of weeks now and I receive regular emails from his new family. We still miss him every day but if he'd stayed with us we wouldn't be able to help anymore. We're now waiting to hopefully meet another little friend from Greece.
It's not a lot that we do as fosterers, we just give them love, lots of cuddles and some time. I wish I could do more, especially when I see all the suffering that goes on in Greece and all over the world. I'd save them all if I could.
Foster Friday - Paul - 2013
We started fostering about five years ago for Hope Rescue in Wales but through a network of transporters we were able to help them out even though we’re in Sussex. I can’t think how we got into it but it was probably due to falling for a sad looking face in one of their photos so over the course of a couple of years we helped five dogs find homes in the Southeast. We stopped fostering due to changing commitments and following a particularly stressful foster but often missed having a short term guest around the house.
We’ve two permanent residents here, a rescue Border Collie who failed the mark as a sheepdog because he’s scared of sheep! Our other dog is a Trailhound who came to us via the amazing Eileen at Lakeland Trailhound Welfare. Demi is a retired racer, her racing name is Westgate Ripple and she was very fast in her prime. Trailhounds are bred to race across the Fells of Cumbria following a scent of Aniseed and Paraffin that’s been left by someone dragging a soaked bag, it’s a ten mile course and she could run it in thirty minutes .
A few months ago a regular on the Facebook Trailhound page shared a link to this funny looking hound with huge ears. It said he was in a short term foster home. I read that to mean it was time limited and as I could see he was fairly local to us, I offered him a bed, as we are aware of the ‘special’ qualities of a scenthound and our garden is secure enough to stop them chasing .
As it turned out, Rigas was rehomed but after that didn’t work out, we could not get him out of our minds and here we are fostering again. We know from previous lodgers how difficult it is to say goodbye but this time (when it comes) is going to be especially hard. Rigas, or Gus as he’s known around the house, is a very special dog. If we didn’t already have two, he would not be leaving.
We’ve two permanent residents here, a rescue Border Collie who failed the mark as a sheepdog because he’s scared of sheep! Our other dog is a Trailhound who came to us via the amazing Eileen at Lakeland Trailhound Welfare. Demi is a retired racer, her racing name is Westgate Ripple and she was very fast in her prime. Trailhounds are bred to race across the Fells of Cumbria following a scent of Aniseed and Paraffin that’s been left by someone dragging a soaked bag, it’s a ten mile course and she could run it in thirty minutes .
A few months ago a regular on the Facebook Trailhound page shared a link to this funny looking hound with huge ears. It said he was in a short term foster home. I read that to mean it was time limited and as I could see he was fairly local to us, I offered him a bed, as we are aware of the ‘special’ qualities of a scenthound and our garden is secure enough to stop them chasing .
As it turned out, Rigas was rehomed but after that didn’t work out, we could not get him out of our minds and here we are fostering again. We know from previous lodgers how difficult it is to say goodbye but this time (when it comes) is going to be especially hard. Rigas, or Gus as he’s known around the house, is a very special dog. If we didn’t already have two, he would not be leaving.
Foster Friday - Amanda - 2013
I'm not sure what the actual catalyst was that made me consider fostering. All I can remember was that when I had made the decision, nothing would have swayed me!! Sorry Jon (my steadfast and super supportive husband), Maera - It was her face that spoke to me from Elpida.
Back in May/June 2013, I put in a request to Lynne to ask whether I could be considered a fosterer for Maera, who at the time was suspected of being deaf. With a job, lifestyle and home, set up for looking after dogs, I thought we could offer her a great environment to develop, as well as be able to assist in the training of a deaf dog.
As the time approached for the transport to leave Greece, it was felt that Jess was probably in greater need of being given a way out of the shelter. It was all agreed and on Thursday 25th July, Jess arrived at our home. What a dream she was. A perfect little bundle of confidence and cuteness, who both Jon and I fell in love with immediately. It was an instant reassurance of knowing that we had done the "right thing", which brushed aside all those nervous butterflies that had been flapping around for the previous 24 hours.
A viewing from potential adopters was arranged for the very next day. And on a beautiful sunny evening, Martin and Kate came to meet Jess. Watching 2 people fall in love with her so quickly, came as no surprise to me. They adored her and she simply adored them. And as a result, the quickest transition from foster dog to forever homed dog, came into being!
Jessie now lives a wonderful life, with 2 terrific people and I love to see the new images that they post regularly, showing how much fun they are all having since an Elpida dog entered their existence.
So the stage was set for the next organised transport to bring Maera over into our care. But once again, it was felt that another dog was becoming very unhappy in the shelter and needed out asap. So we prepared for Roxy's arrival...... She was due on the August Bank Holiday Monday, but unforeseen circumstances with transport, meant that she didn't arrive until 9 days later. Once again, we were greeted with a bundle of energy and love. Roxy was the antithesis to most people's idea of a dog from a impoverished Greek shelter. She was bright, confident, had a cracking well conditioned coat and showed very little timidity at all. I think all concerned thought she would be homed very quickly. But in the very nature of fostering, the future is very unpredictable. Roxy was with us for 2 months before the wonderful Jane made an application for her. They are a match made in heaven and from all the photographs and updates I get, it is clear to me that their relationship continues to strengthen and become even more beloved. I had worried that having had a dog in my care for so long, it would be very hard for both Roxy and I, to part company. I shed tears, I'm not ashamed to admit it. And she looked very anxious as we put her in the crate in Jane's car. But my fears were very quickly quashed and once again I felt that warm fuzzy feeling of having helped a dog into a life they could never imagined previously.
So the stage was set once again for Maera to join our household...., but once again, her place on the next transport was forfeited for a dog that had already been reserved for adoption, and rightly so too.
Then a dramatic turn of events occurred within the shelter, which lead to a somewhat extraordinary evacuation of all the hound type dogs. I put my name forward as someone prepared to foster a hound, knowing full well that it would be a very different experience from my previous 2 foster dogs. It was agreed that Dexter would come to stay, as well (she sighs with relief) as Maera!!
On Friday 27th September, I drove over to Bob and Diana's to meet the dogs who had only just arrived in the country. It was very exciting to finally meet Maera, and the dreamboat that is our Mr D. On getting them home, it was a very different introduction to the previous 2 girls. Dexter was very laid back and reserved, Maera was extremely timid and quiet, but certainly not deaf! - not at all as I had expected. But oh how the pair of them have developed over the past 4 weeks. They are now confident and settled and love their routine of walks and socialising. Dexter has found a new home, but as yet, has not moved in. I get to savour a few more days with him - he's been such a pleasure to have in the house, he's so quiet and docile and my daughter loves him and he loves her. What can I say about Maera that does her justice. If you've meet her, you'll understand how special she is. My own 2 rescued dogs adore her, particularly my choc lab bitch, who we never thought would play with another dog, let alone bond as she has done with Maera. Where you find one, you find the other.
To all of you fosterers, I doubt I have to wax lyrical about the joys and tears and rewards of doing what we do. BUT, to those reading this, who are thinking of fostering, or better still, adopting one of our companions, then I hope this will take you one step further along a path that you will never forget. A path that will bring a sense of fulfilment and happiness that we all so need, when all around us our ears and eyes are bombarded with such sadness and horror. If you can do just one good thing this year, then take one of these dogs away from that very sadness and horror.
Back in May/June 2013, I put in a request to Lynne to ask whether I could be considered a fosterer for Maera, who at the time was suspected of being deaf. With a job, lifestyle and home, set up for looking after dogs, I thought we could offer her a great environment to develop, as well as be able to assist in the training of a deaf dog.
As the time approached for the transport to leave Greece, it was felt that Jess was probably in greater need of being given a way out of the shelter. It was all agreed and on Thursday 25th July, Jess arrived at our home. What a dream she was. A perfect little bundle of confidence and cuteness, who both Jon and I fell in love with immediately. It was an instant reassurance of knowing that we had done the "right thing", which brushed aside all those nervous butterflies that had been flapping around for the previous 24 hours.
A viewing from potential adopters was arranged for the very next day. And on a beautiful sunny evening, Martin and Kate came to meet Jess. Watching 2 people fall in love with her so quickly, came as no surprise to me. They adored her and she simply adored them. And as a result, the quickest transition from foster dog to forever homed dog, came into being!
Jessie now lives a wonderful life, with 2 terrific people and I love to see the new images that they post regularly, showing how much fun they are all having since an Elpida dog entered their existence.
So the stage was set for the next organised transport to bring Maera over into our care. But once again, it was felt that another dog was becoming very unhappy in the shelter and needed out asap. So we prepared for Roxy's arrival...... She was due on the August Bank Holiday Monday, but unforeseen circumstances with transport, meant that she didn't arrive until 9 days later. Once again, we were greeted with a bundle of energy and love. Roxy was the antithesis to most people's idea of a dog from a impoverished Greek shelter. She was bright, confident, had a cracking well conditioned coat and showed very little timidity at all. I think all concerned thought she would be homed very quickly. But in the very nature of fostering, the future is very unpredictable. Roxy was with us for 2 months before the wonderful Jane made an application for her. They are a match made in heaven and from all the photographs and updates I get, it is clear to me that their relationship continues to strengthen and become even more beloved. I had worried that having had a dog in my care for so long, it would be very hard for both Roxy and I, to part company. I shed tears, I'm not ashamed to admit it. And she looked very anxious as we put her in the crate in Jane's car. But my fears were very quickly quashed and once again I felt that warm fuzzy feeling of having helped a dog into a life they could never imagined previously.
So the stage was set once again for Maera to join our household...., but once again, her place on the next transport was forfeited for a dog that had already been reserved for adoption, and rightly so too.
Then a dramatic turn of events occurred within the shelter, which lead to a somewhat extraordinary evacuation of all the hound type dogs. I put my name forward as someone prepared to foster a hound, knowing full well that it would be a very different experience from my previous 2 foster dogs. It was agreed that Dexter would come to stay, as well (she sighs with relief) as Maera!!
On Friday 27th September, I drove over to Bob and Diana's to meet the dogs who had only just arrived in the country. It was very exciting to finally meet Maera, and the dreamboat that is our Mr D. On getting them home, it was a very different introduction to the previous 2 girls. Dexter was very laid back and reserved, Maera was extremely timid and quiet, but certainly not deaf! - not at all as I had expected. But oh how the pair of them have developed over the past 4 weeks. They are now confident and settled and love their routine of walks and socialising. Dexter has found a new home, but as yet, has not moved in. I get to savour a few more days with him - he's been such a pleasure to have in the house, he's so quiet and docile and my daughter loves him and he loves her. What can I say about Maera that does her justice. If you've meet her, you'll understand how special she is. My own 2 rescued dogs adore her, particularly my choc lab bitch, who we never thought would play with another dog, let alone bond as she has done with Maera. Where you find one, you find the other.
To all of you fosterers, I doubt I have to wax lyrical about the joys and tears and rewards of doing what we do. BUT, to those reading this, who are thinking of fostering, or better still, adopting one of our companions, then I hope this will take you one step further along a path that you will never forget. A path that will bring a sense of fulfilment and happiness that we all so need, when all around us our ears and eyes are bombarded with such sadness and horror. If you can do just one good thing this year, then take one of these dogs away from that very sadness and horror.