The Animal Foundation seeks holiday fosters for dogs, cats
LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — The Animal Foundation is encouraging more people to foster dogs and cats during the holiday season.
Its goal is to provide temporary homes for animals in need.
The foundation's year-round foster program is particularly active during this time, as they hope to see more dogs leave the shelter for a few days or weeks.
Annie Wang, a foster volunteer, recently took 7-year-old Bronson for a two-hour walk at the park.
It was Bronson's first outing after spending 48 days at the shelter. Wang described the experience as a "huge win-win" for both of them.
"I get to play with a dog and get them out of a not very fun environment," Wang said. "And get them some fresh air, space to run, and maybe some tasty treats."
Max Blaustein, the Animal Foundation's coordinator of marketing and communications, said the organization is seeking fosters for dogs that are at least 6 months old and weigh 35 pounds or more, as these dogs often face challenges in getting adopted quickly.
"We ask that you foster at least through December 25th," Blaustein said.
Among those in greatest need is 2-year-old Peter Pan, who has been waiting for adoption since summer.
Blaustein noted that Peter Pan is energetic when first out of the kennel but calms down after a few minutes.
Cats are also available for fostering, Blaustein said, though they require more time to adjust to new surroundings.
Fosters should expect to keep cats for at least two weeks, Blaustein said.
Wang, who recently lost her own rescue dog, said fostering helps her cope with the loss and honors her pet's memory.
"For me, I personally just lost a dog over the weekend, and she was a rescue as well," Wang said. "I'm doing something she would have wanted me to do. Take some other dogs, get them out, get them happy."
Wang believes that even a few hours at the park can make a significant difference, revealing the dog's true personality.
She plans to adopt a dog by February 7th, embracing the label of "foster fail" at the Animal Foundation.
For more information on fostering click HERE. Questions can be sent to foster@animalfoundation.com.