Give a shelter dog a much-needed weekend getaway. Weekend fostering is a simple, fulfilling way to help animals de-stress while they wait for their forever homes.
For animal lovers who aren’t ready for the full-time commitment of adoption, weekend fostering offers the perfect solution — for both you and a shelter dog in need. David Brennan, a local nurse who works long hours, recently discovered the weekend foster program at the Sonoma County Animal Shelter. It’s quickly become a rewarding experience for him.
A simple way to make a big difference
“I wasn’t ready to foster full-time, but I’d heard about weekend fostering,” Brennan says. After speaking with Emma Diemert, the shelter supervisor, he learned how the program provides temporary homes to dogs, helping them relax and adjust while they wait for adoption.
Diemert walked Brennan through a simple sign-up process and made sure he had everything he needed — water bowls, leashes, bedding, food, toys, and emergency contacts for vet care. The shelter ensures that foster families are fully supported for the weekend.
A rewarding experience with Nova
Brennan and his partner were matched with Nova, a black lab and Rottweiler mix. “She acclimated quickly to our space and has been on several walks around the neighborhood, to the night market in Guerneville, and even Armstrong Woods,” Brennan says. “I wish I knew about weekend fostering sooner! It’s a win-win for the shelter and for people who can’t commit to full-time fostering or adoption.”
Shelter dogs need a break too
The Sonoma County Animal Shelter cares for dozens of dogs, many of whom have been there for weeks, months, or even years. Weekend fostering gives these animals a break from shelter life, helping them de-stress and experience love in a temporary home.
“These animals deserve a break from shelter life, even if it’s just for a weekend,” Brennan says. His experience highlights how weekend fostering is ideal for those with busy schedules who still want to make a difference in a dog’s life.
The shelter provides all the necessary supplies and support to make the process easy for fosters. By becoming a weekend foster, you can give a shelter dog a much-needed getaway and a chance at a better life.
How you can help:
• Provide a temporary home to help shelter dogs de-stress
• Offer love and protect their well-being
• Give insight into their behaviors for potential adopters
• Help them adjust to a calm, stable home while waiting for adoption
If you’re interested in becoming a weekend foster, contact the Sonoma County Animal Shelter at SCASFosters@sonoma-county.org or call 707-565-7100. Every little bit helps, and the shelter is grateful to all who open their homes to foster.
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