During the pandemic, shelters saw record adoption numbers, as many people were looking for pet companions during uncertain times. Since then, adoption numbers have greatly decreased, causing overcrowding in shelters across the United States.
Overcrowding in a shelter can cause an increase in the spread of diseases and increased anxiety and discomfort in animals, significantly affecting an animal’s physical and mental health. Some pets never recover from said health complications, and will never get to experience life in a loving home.
Shelters have what is called a “humane capacity” which refers to the number of animals a shelter can intake while still ensuring all animals receive humane and proper care. Once this capacity is met, difficult decisions have to be made. Seniors, special needs, and animals with poor behavior might be euthanized in order to make space, as shelters believe these pets have lower chances of adoption. Shelters will also cease to take in any other pets, stranding many strays and other pets on the streets or in bad situations.
Though this sounds like a terrible situation and all hope is lost, this is not true, and you can help shelter pets in need!
Fostering a pet involves taking them into your home for either short periods or extended periods of time, giving them a loving temporary home until their forever home comes around. Fostering is a crucial factor in preventing shelter overcrowding and many shelters are in need of emergency fosters. Fostering is a low-stake commitment, with many shelters offering foster programs like weekend getaways, where a pet stays with you for just the weekend. These weekend getaways are so important for a pet’s mental health, as it allows them to take a break from the noisy and anxiety-inducing environment of the shelters.
You don’t need a huge fancy house with a fenced-in backyard to foster a pet. Pets suitable for all lifestyles are in need of a foster. Cats are great to foster in an apartment and are very low maintenance. Senior dogs are also low-energy and would do great in smaller living areas. And of course, if you have the means to foster a larger, high-energy dog, please consider it as they’re usually the ones most in need of a break from the shelter.
Fostering does not have to be expensive, as many shelters provide most of the necessary supplies such as food, crates, toys, beds, and vet costs. You really do not need to spend money to foster; simply provide a safe and loving environment for a pet.
Local shelters in Athens have a high demand for emergency fosters, including Athens Clarke County Animal Services, the Athens Area Humane Society, Athens Animal Rescue Shelter, Athens Canine Rescue, Colbert Veterinary Rescue Services, Madison Oglethorpe Animal Shelter, and more.
As someone who has fostered before, I can tell you firsthand that it is a very rewarding experience. You get to save a pet’s life while also enjoying the company of a furry friend, and who knows, you might foster fail (adopt your foster pet) and earn a lifelong best friend. Check out local shelters in your area today to learn more about fostering and aiding America’s shelters one pet at a time!
Can’t foster? No worries! There are so many other ways to get involved and help shelter pets in need. All of the previously mentioned shelters also need volunteers to help in the daily upkeep and care of shelter pets within the facilities. There are also so many organizations on campus to help get you involved and provide you with a community of friends and peers with the same goal. Check out Rescue Paws UGA and Dogs for the Paws to get involved and volunteer!