P E T S
WHY I
FOSTER A CARE VOLUNTEER OPENS HER HOME TO PUPS IN NEED
F
B Y C A R LY H E M M I N G E R
ostering animals was always something I wanted to do. As a kid, I enjoyed spending time on my grandmother’s farm, admiring her as she led an initiative to fund and build a shelter for homeless animals in her community. I looked forward to helping with the animals, and the desire to foster came naturally. I loved the idea of opening my home and heart to an animal in need. Fostering was just a matter of being in the right place in my life to do so. I joined Chatham Animal Rescue & Education (CARE) as a foster shortly after moving to Chatham County in 2019. My experience with the nonprofit has been incredible. CARE is committed to improving animal welfare, and the organization goes above and beyond to achieve its mission. I’m constantly in awe of the volunteers’ dedication, providing necessary resources, support and mentorship to enable individuals and families to be successful. The volunteers
38
CHATHAM MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2021
PHOTO BY CC KALLAM
are generous, skillful and passionate. CARE welcomes volunteers who can’t foster to assist at events, socialize the animals or provide other necessary functions, like transportation. And donations are always welcome – every bit goes a long way. As a Realtor with Triangle Real Estate Services, I proudly donate 10% of my commission to CARE. The best part about working with a rescue like CARE is that you decide what works for you. I focus on puppies, while others take in senior or small breed dogs. Everyone asks, “Isn’t it hard to say goodbye?” Yes, goodbyes are tough. However, fostering is tremendously gratifying. There’s a saying – “If you love something, let it go.” I think this captures the essence of fostering. I have the privilege of playing an important role in puppies’ lives. I take them in, nurse them to health, show them affection, tend to their needs, transport them to a partner veterinarian for spay or neuter, ensure they receive their vaccinations, screen potential adopters and match them with their forever family. The