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