LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — A nonprofit 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 the innovative program will establish a flexible foster system so community members can take in dogs awaiting adoption without long-term commitments.
The program is designed to be more accessible to individuals and families with varying schedules, according to the nonprofit.
“Fostering saves lives, and this program makes it possible for more people to get involved,” Christy Stevens, executive director of Hearts Alive Village, said in a statement. “By offering flexible options, we can engage the community in a way that fits their lifestyle while giving these incredible dogs a second chance.”
Foster caregivers can choose daytime care, in which dogs are dropped off at a PetSmart Adoption Center during the day and picked up in the evening.
There is also short-term fostering, where a dog is kept for a few nights a week to provide a home environment.
People can also choose traditional fostering, where full-time care is provided for dogs awaiting adoption.
Hearts Alive says the Henderson shelter is facing an overcrowding crisis, and the goal is to help transfer 500 extra dogs through the new fostering program over the next 12 months.
Fostering can help reduce kennel stress and increase visibility for adoption, thereby improving the quality of life for these dogs.
Anyone interested in fostering a dog can apply through the Hearts Alive Village website.
PetSmart Charities is providing funding for the program, in collaboration with the Virginia Tech research team and with support from Best Friends Animal Society and a The Rachael Ray Save Them All Grant.
This post was originally published on this site be sure to check out more of their content.
