Cooperative Living July 2020 - 26

PawPrints | by Rachel Olivieri, Contributing Writer
Animal Fostering
During COVID-19
Tips on the right way to work
with animal rescues
ver the last few months,
Americans have seen a lot of
change. While much of this
change has been tough, we've also seen
some of the best of humanity. From
drive-by birthday celebrations to
balcony singalongs to just checking
in on a neighbor, people have
demonstrated what it truly means
to be there for one another.
One of the most interesting (and
heartwarming) phenomena during this
time is the increase in animal fosters
seen by many animal-related nonprofits
and shelters across the country.
" Being in a pandemic has caused
people to really slow down, take a look
at their lives and think about what's
important in this moment, " says
Jennifer Yanavitch, executive director
for Fierce Love Rescue, an animal
rescue located in Stephens City, Va.,
in the Shenandoah Valley Electric
Cooperative territory.
" Animal fostering has given people
an outlet to stay connected with others
in a positive manner through social
media, as well as a hands-on outlet
to continue to give back to their
communities while keeping themselves
and others safe through social
distancing, " Yanavitch says. " It's
wonderful that we're able to unite
with a common goal of giving back.
Plus, having a furry friend to hang out
with is never a bad thing. "
Indeed, we've long known that
being around animals can have some
amazing health benefits. According to
the National Institutes of Health,
interacting with animals can help you
recover more quickly from stressful
situations, reduce feelings of loneliness
and increase feelings of social support.
Animals can help lower stress, lower
your cholesterol (according to the
24 | Cooperative Living | July 2020
O
Centers for Disease Control), and
provide a source of comfort during
this time of uncertainty. Fostering an
animal is also incredibly rewarding -
you save an animal's life, get to know
their personality and help them find
an amazing home.
Best of all - fostering is free!
Rescue organizations often cover the
cost of food, vetting and other needs
for their foster animals. You simply
provide a safe, loving home for your
foster pet.
If you are interested in fostering
an animal for the first time but aren't
sure where to turn, don't fret. " The best
first step you can take is to research
the animal you're thinking of fostering
and find out if their basic needs match
up with yours, " says Yanavitch.
" You can also reach out to your
local rescue with any questions you
have, or to ask for advice. Rescues
are always excited to welcome new
fosters - this allows them to save
more animal lives. " ■
Rachel Olivieri is marketing director
for Fierce Love Rescue.
For more info, check out fierceloverescue.org.
Tips for a First-Time Animal Foster
Don't be afraid to ask questions! Rescue organizations
want to ensure your success now and in the future.
No question is too small, and rescues often have coaches
who can help with any issues that may arise.
Patience is key. For many of these animals, a foster's home
is their first loving, safe place. They will need some time to
adjust - a few weeks is often a good amount of time for an
animal to " decompress " in a new home.
Fostering is fun for the whole family. Even the youngest
family member can help (with supervision, of course). Don't be
afraid to look for opportunities for everyone to assist in your
foster's care.
If animal fostering isn't for you, that's okay. There are many
volunteer positions available in rescue that can be done from
the comfort of your home. No matter your strength, there is a
place for you in rescue.
co-opliving.com
http://www.fierceloverescue.org http://www.co-opliving.com
Cooperative Living July 2020

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