Being a volunteer at a high kill shelter and a foster mom has brought a meaning to my life. I have been a volunteer now for 2 1/2 years and its something I wish I started a lot sooner. It’s very fulfilling to know that I am able to help a dog in need that has a high chance of not seeing tomorrow. Whether it is taking a dog out for a walk and a romp around the play yard, or helping to promote a dog by taking its’ picture, writing up a short bio and making a craigslist ad for it or whether its making sure there is enough clean blankets and sheets to give to a dog to help keep comfortable while in their kennel really soothes the heart. I felt after a while that I wasn’t doing enough so I ventured into fostering where I have so far successfully placed 10 dogs into their forever homes. It is very rewarding when I bring a sick or scared dog home and watch them blossom to the dog they are supposed to be. Finding the right home for a dog can take some time but when that family is found the feeling is bittersweet. Do I get attached to the ones I have taken home? Yes. Did my home, family, and other pets have to get used to having shelter dogs coming and going after a few months? Yes. Do I get busy at times and cannot give as much attention to my foster as I would like? Of course. Life happens but to know that I saved a life that probably would not have made it out alive is a feeling that you would not know unless you do it. It is hard work being a volunteer/foster mom but hard work does pay off and I have become a life saver for many dogs. An animal is alive because of me! It just doesn’t get any better than that.