FOSTERING

Without the valuable help of dedicated volunteers, rescues cannot survive and continue. These volunteer are willing to donate their time and a little bit of effort to support the rescue cause. This is one area where your work really can make a difference, and you will feel the warmth and satisfaction that comes with knowing you have contributed to the happiness of one little dog.

Foster care is one of the most important functions of any rescue. These homes serve as “half-way houses” for our little dogs. They are especially valuable when a dog comes from a place where they have been neglected, abused or denied much human contact. These dogs may be sick and/or fearful, and they may need personal care and attention to recover from their illnesses and stressful life before they are ready to be placed.

All of the dogs that come to Maltese Heart are given a thorough check-up by a veterinarian. Some are in need of immediate veterinary care and immunizations, and others just need to adjust to family life and having people or other pets around. These dogs are not ready to be placed right away into a permanent forever home. A foster family provides a warm, loving temporary home for the rescues while they are recovering from an illness or disease, adjusting to the “outside” world, or just waiting to be ready for placement.

The job of fostering may be short term and easy, or long term and challenging, depending on the needs of the dog, but it is always rewarding to see these little white fluffies regain their trust in humans, confidence and personalities while in your care. You know you are helping these dogs adjust to a new life, and you are giving them a great base from which to start the bright days of their future.