The Shadow
LOW MOOR – The Alleghany Humane Society (AHS) is asking residents of the Highlands to consider opening their hearts to an animal in need of a temporary home.
“Fostering is a great way to see if you and your family are ready to take on the responsibility of adopting an animal or, if you’re not ready for a permanent commitment, it’s a critical way to help AHS save more animals by sharing your home while the shelter is near capacity,” says Becky Johnson, AHS board member.
“Foster volunteers are also given the first opportunity to adopt their foster pet and make it a permanent member of their family if they so choose.
“The AHS takes in animals in need of extra care and attention, such as abandoned animals, litters of puppies or kittens, and animals recovering from illness or injury. We are seeking dedicated, energetic, and patient foster parents to care for dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens.
“The foster period can be from 2 weeks to 6 weeks, depending upon the need of the animal. Foster volunteers care for the animals as if they were their own. Responsibilities include feeding, socializing, grooming, training, and preparing the animals in general for lives in their forever homes. The shelter provides veterinary care for all foster animals and any behavioral issues can be addressed with the assistance of our lead kennel attendants who will guide you through the process.
AHS board president Beth Hawse, commented, “I have two dogs of my own at home so I am not in the market to adopt another one. However, fostering is a wonderful way to experience the joys of a new animal and the rewards of helping to prepare that animal for a forever home. I have not gone more than a few days without having a foster animal in my home since I began serving as a foster volunteer about a year ago.”
There is an immediate need for foster volunteers for both dogs and cats. To be a foster volunteer, individuals should fill out an application and be approved as a foster care provider. Applications can be picked up at the shelter or by calling the shelter at 862-2436 and asking that a foster application either be mailed or e-mailed.
If you have questions, contact Jennifer Lee, AHS foster committee chair, at 965-7387.
