When fostering a rescued animal, one never knows when the homeless pet is going to meet his new 'furever' parents. You know when you commit to fostering that the pet you take in is only going to be with you temporarily. That's the goal.....to get abandoned, stray or given up pets into new and hopefully 'forever' homes.
I've had lots of foster dogs come and go over the years. You certainly feel great when they get adopted. Sometimes though, you feel great and not so great all at the same time.
I guess that's where I'm at right now with my foster dog Dottie. You see......Dottie is being adopted. Unless something unforeseen happens, she will be going to her new home this weekend.
I am happy and sad. Dottie and I developed a tight bond. Many, many times I thought about failing at fostering and adopting her. My topsy turvy life kept saying "no" but my heart was saying, "why not".
There are reasons things happen as they do. I am talking about my fall at the dog park and breaking that stupid bone in my leg. Because of that, Dottie has been 'at camp' since and will be leaving for her new furever home from there. So the 'end' of my fostering her seems awfully abrupt. I didn't get to go through meeting the adoptive family and weighing in, I didn't get to mentally prepare for her to go....to say goodbye. All in all, I think it is best this way.
As I am still on crutches, my friends at 'camp' have offered to come and get me to see her one more time. I've debated and gone back and forth on should I or shouldn't I. I've pretty much decided not to see her. We've been apart for a week and a half now and she is having fun there and I have had a couple of good cries over her. I think that I would be upset to see her and that in turn might upset her.....so, I think it's probably best if I don't.
I am told her new family is 'over the moon' excited about her. I can certainly understand why and they haven't even lived with her yet.
Best wishes Dottie Dot! Your foster mom loves you!!
Oh Miss Dottie...I wish her the very best! But you, Mom, actually brought a tear to my eyes just now! I so admire you for fostering and always being willing to let go so that they may find a permanent home. It shows your strength. Even your decision to let her go without the final goodbye shows that you will give her an easy transition, rather than feed your own needs. Very classy.
ReplyDeleteAs others have said...there are many more fosters to come...but I agree, Dottie was special.
Blessings,
Courtney
The bittersweet separation is not easy for a foster pet care giver but because of you Dottie has known happiness and has discovered that she is loved. I wish you speedy recovery of your fractured bone and I know that your heart is still opened for another dog needy of love and care. Dottie is a beautiful dog for sure. I hope that she will be happy in her new home. Hugs, JB
ReplyDeleteKaren ~
ReplyDeleteI'm trying not to cry!!!
I know exactly where you are coming from. Fostering is so very bittersweet.
There is a special little corner in heaven for you.
Big pug hugs coming your way :)
Lauren
Is it possible to be happy and sad at the same time? Maybe the bone break / separation was part of a master design to make this an easier transition. I am so proud of people like you and Lauren for what you do.
ReplyDeleteah, this is a difficult time for you! i could not foster an animal, i haven't the strength that you possess. i am glad dottie found a good home. hope your bone heals fast!
ReplyDeleteI am happy for Dottie, and I know sometimes things happen for a reason. If her adoption doesn't go through, though, for some reason, think about letting her stay. Hugs to you, because I have fostered and I know it isn't easy! Letting them go is tough, but you've done a great thing for Dottie and given her a gift no one else has!
ReplyDeleteHi Karen,
ReplyDeleteYou were and are the best foster mom a dog like Dottie could ever have!
Dogs have an inner sense we'll probably never understand. You were very instrumental in that transition to a good home and special blessings are yours!
Sweetest of wishes for your full recovery from all things broken and a heart filled with satisfaction from doing what only a special person can do!
((Hugs!!))
Cathy G
Karen, my heart goes out to you, but know you did right by Dottie. You gave her a wonderful home, unconditional love, and the ability for her to trust again. Sending blessings your way, Julie.
ReplyDeleteI have so much admiration for foster moms/dads. I would definitely be a "failure" and wouldn't be able to let them go. Dottie is adorable and good for you for being there for her until her forever home came along. We need more of you in this world!
ReplyDeleteMy best wishes to you Dottie! I know you've had wonderful care in the hands of Karen; but I also know the incredible joy in finding your forever home. Your new family is very lucky. I'm so happy for you!
ReplyDelete