My “mission” has always been about the well-being of dogs, especially in the area of nutrition. I have been a pet parent for 30+ years, 25+ as a small dog mom. I began fostering in May 2008, (mainly Chihuahuas) and from there my interest in these little dogs began to grow. In 2012, I started a senior dog rescue, “Small Paws Senior Canine Sanctuary”. Taegan and Tobey were the first…then came Otis (he was 19 years old!)…and eventually two others I had taken in, Little Scrap and Maebelle became residents as well.
With my extensive background in human nutrition, it wasn’t long before I determined I should expand that to canines. In April 2013, I obtained certification in “Advanced Canine Nutrition”. It has served me well, and has enabled me to gain insight into the nutrient needs that go well beyond a bag of dry kibble or canned dog food. I have turned around issues using proper diet and herbal supplements. There are so many ailments that can plague our pets, it’s overwhelming and it saddens me. Even with the best of care, the progression of age and disease, it’s not possible to continue moving forward sometimes and you have to let go. I’ve experienced that eight times now with my own just since 2013. It is disheartening. I wish they could live forever, but it’s not possible. We just have to do the best we can for them…enjoy them while they are here and honor their memory by rescuing another in need.
With the years passing quickly, and the realization of me turning 60 next year (2022), I have to consider what I want to do going forward, because my own aging can change my ability to care for a pet. The two I have now, Mya…she will be 19 this October (she’s been with me almost 13 years), and Little Scrap will be 17 in August (he’s been with me almost 11 years). Realistically, I could be pet-less by the end of the year…a thought that doesn’t set well because it’s hard for me to remember my life “B.C.” (before canines). I am currently fostering a large (to me) dog…a bully mix (55#’s)…she will be the last one I foster, as I have decided to go a new direction from rescue and fostering to assisting other fosters and connecting them to rescues, so more dogs can be saved.
I just recently (April 15th) lost “Sanctuary” resident Taegan to doggie dementia (an issue I really need to blog about). I am working on a Facebook page that will allow me to connect fosters with rescues…”Indy Dog Fostering Network”. (See link in “Fostering, Rescue and Dog Resources” section) I am in Indianapolis, but plan to cover the whole state of Indiana. Although local shelters provide basic needs and safety from the elements, shelter life is stressful, especially to the small dogs. My goal thru my network, is a shorter shelter stay. Much can be learned from providing a home environment vs. being in a noisy shelter, which many times causes a dog to shut down. I learned so much valuable information from the ones I took in. It also made me a better person, because caring for a dog that isn’t yours truly brings a sense of satisfaction, knowing you’ve helped make their life better. If you have considered fostering a dog, or you foster dogs, please contact me if you’d like to help. I have connections with local (Indiana) rescues, and can get you connected to them, so you can do what is necessary to foster for them. If you know of someone, please have them contact me, through my FB page or my email: TalkToThePawInIndy@aol.com
I know it will take a while to build this network, but eventually it will get there. Also consider, there are other areas you can assist besides fostering…sponsor a dog (many rescues have this available), be a transport person…get a dog where he/she needs to go. Donate…this is a big one! Rescues are typically all volunteer…and there’s no such thing as a “free” dog. This helps to pay expenses for the dogs…vetting, food, medication, beds, toys, treats. And certainly, when you see a dog posted needing a home, SHARE the post. It only takes a few seconds. You never know when doing that will find the dog a home. Everyone can play a role in helping. Please “like” my FB page, and share it with family and friends so a network can be built to help as many dogs as possible. My goal is to save them all and see them placed in a loving, “fur”-ever home! Please join me in this journey, won’t you?
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