Foster A Pet Magazine...First Edition - Fall 2017 - 31
IF YOU CAN’T FOSTER BUT WANT TO HELP: Some of you reading this magazine may wish to foster but can’t for good reasons.There are other ways you can help “hands on”. Sign up for the Buddy Program at Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter.
Ayres Memorial Shelter Buddy Program There have been many times in life where we have had someone say to us, “I’d love to help, but I can’t adopt a pet right now.” As much as we would love for everyone to have the opportunity to know the love from a rescue pet, we know that it is not a viable reality for everyone. With that said, there are still plenty of ways for people to help out a shelter animal in need! It doesn’t take money, just a little time and a lot of heart. We at Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter have put together what we call our “Shelter Buddy” program. This program pairs up a two legged volunteer with a four legged pal that they can call their very own! As a “buddy” you are able to take your your dog out on walks, hikes, swimming, to the pet store for treats, celebrate holidays, get them socialized and give them love until their very own forever family comes along. The bond that you will develop with your buddy is unlike any other that you have ever felt - you are making an impact on an animal’s life The author of this article: Frankie Page - showing them consistency, shown here on an outing with her shelter buddy helping them redevelop trust King, who is featured on the front cover. in a mankind that had previously abandoned them and showing them love to help overcome whatever past experiences they may have had. The changes that will occur as a result of spending just one day a week with your buddy are unmeasurable. A dog that is timid will come out of it’s shell and give you it’s belly to rub, a dog that is anxious will begin to settle and learn to walk by your side with structure and exercise, a dog that had lived life in a crate or on a chain will run on a loose leash with that special smile that a dog can only show, a dog that has never seen open water will paddle around with a look of pure joy. Words cannot fully describe the rewards that you reap as a shelter buddy, you learn lessons that cannot be taught in books but only learned through experience. You see change occur before your very own eyes, you get to give and receive love and most importantly, you make a difference. A few hours a week may not seem like that much to you, but that time means the world to an animal in need. by Frankie Page
Mike Page - shown here with Jordan, another one of the couple’s shelter buddies, enjoying their time together
Email: Marissa.ayresshelter@gmail.com if interested or to find out more about the Buddy Program King, tired after a great day out!
See Page 19 for more about Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter