There are many benefits of sharing your life with a dog. Not only does a dog provide us with  companionship and unconditional love, they help  us to be more physically active. They encourage us to  get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and meet new people.  Dogs help keep us happy and healthy.  

There are specific benefits to adopting from a shelter  or rescue. For the dog, you are literally saving their life.  For you, when adopting a dog, you don’t have to go  through the puppy stage. Many dogs will already be  potty trained and know some skills, like “sit” or other  basic cues. There are dogs of all ages, personalities, and  breeds available for adoption, so you can choose a dog  that fits your lifestyle and goals.  

While there are lots of benefits, there are responsibilities that come with having a dog. You are committing to care for the dog for life; this includes  health care, exercise, food, safety, and training. 

Which brings us to fostering. Fostering a dog, even  temporarily, is a great option. You get all the benefits of  sharing your life with a dog, without the full commitment.  Medical care and basic supplies are covered when you  foster; in some cases, training is also included.  

If you can’t make a long-term fostering commitment  but want to help and spend time with some amazing  dogs, try being a short-term foster. Lifeline Animal Project lifelineanimal.org has several great programs, including  Weekend Warrior and Dog for a Day. Research shows  that getting a dog out of the shelter for an overnight  with a foster—or out for the day—increases their chance  of getting adopted, while you get the benefits of  companionship and physical exercise.  

What are you waiting for?.  

 


By Kris Hale with Best in Dog, LLC