Photo: Mingson Lau/KSNV
Hearts Alive Village is working with the Henderson Animal Shelter on a new hybrid foster program to help 500 dogs over the next year!
Hearts Alive Village says this innovative program will establish a flexible foster program so that community members so that community members can take in dogs without long term commitment.
The program is made to be more accessible to individuals and families with varying schedules. Christy Stevens, executive director of Hearts Alive Village explains, "Fostering saves lives, and this program makes it possible for more people to get involved." She further explains how a shelter that provides flexible options on fostering, can engage with their community in a way that fits their schedule and a way to give these dogs a second chance!
Foster caregivers can decide between daytime care, where dogs are dropped off at PetSmart Adoption Center during the day and picked up in the evening.
There is also a short-term fostering, where a dog is kept for a few nights to a week to provide a home environment.
Caregivers still have the option to choose between traditional fostering, where full-time care is provided for dogs awaiting adoption as well!
Hearts Alive explains that the Henderson Animal Shelter is facing an overcrowding issue, and the goal is to help 500 extra dogs through this new fostering program over the next 12 months.
Fostering is very beneficial to animals, as it can reduce kennel stress and increase visibility for possible adoption. This will improve the quality of life for many dogs!
Any community members interested in fostering a dog can apply through Hearts Alive Village website here!
PetSmart Charities is providing funding for this program! In collaboration with Virginia Tech research team and with the support of Best Friends Animal Society and The Rachael Ray Tell Them All Grant!
Souce: KSNV