When Buddy’s owner became sick and needed to go away, he was very concerned that he would lose his best pal Buddy. Chance Shelter was called by Animal Care and Control and asked if we could assist with a temporary foster home for Buddy. This would not be an easy task, as we were not sure how long Buddy would be in our care and this would mean we would be losing a foster while Buddy was in their care. We have such wonderful fosters that when we told them the story about Buddy and his owner having to be separated, some of them immediately offered up their home.
We found that Buddy was high spirited and full of energy. He loves the water, playing ball and needed a lot of attention. Buddy was not neutered and needed updated on his shots and rabies. Chance Shelter wanted to be sure all of these things were taken care of while Buddy’s owner was working on getting well.
Our foster took care of all of Buddy’s veterinarian appointments. He was bathed and cared for and met some friends during his time with our foster. Although it was discovered that Buddy wanted to be the only dog in the household! He had always been the only dog when he was with his owner. Buddy seemed content with being at the foster home, but there were behavioral issues that the foster considered to be from the fact that Buddy was missing his owner.
When Buddy’s owner was placed in to the hospital, he had lost everything. He also feared that he would lose Buddy. We received a call from Buddy’s owner just about every other day asking how Buddy was doing. We assured him that Buddy was in good hands and to just concentrate on getting well. The love and bond that this veteran had with his furry friend was heart warming.
After 5 weeks in our foster care, Buddy and his owner were finally going to be reunited! We were all so excited for the both of them. It had been a long five weeks for everyone and the big day was finally here! We knew that Buddy’s owner would be starting over so Chance Shelter purchased a new backpack and filled it full of supplies for both Buddy and his owner to give them a head start.
We loaded Buddy in the car and he seemed confused and nervous, perhaps he thought that he was going for another veterinary visit! When we arrived and met up with Buddy’s owner, Buddy seemed unsure at first, but within minutes of catching the scent of his owner, Buddy became very excited and jumped into his arms and began licking his face. It was a joyful, tear filled moment for all of us! We gave Buddy’s owner the back pack and all of his veterinary paperwork. Buddy walked away proudly with his owner and never looked back.
We at Chance Shelter believe that pets belong with the people who love them. No matter the situation or circumstance. We were happy to be able to help Buddy and his owner remain together after a brief time apart. This is why our fosters are so important and greatly appreciated. We encourage anyone who has the time and love to open your hearts and homes and be a strong part of helping to keep pets with the people who love them. We can assure you it is truly rewarding.
