For Ross, fostering Egg turned out to be an incredibly rewarding experience.
He agreed to foster after hearing that Egg had been in a home previously, but that this hadn’t worked out due to Egg’s separation anxiety. As Ross works from home, he said yes right away.
He found the previous foster carers had been right when they’d advised that Egg was a lovely, friendly boy, but that he needed someone committed to working with him on some problem behaviours, and to help him learn to be okay by himself for short periods.
Over time, Ross worked with Egg on his reactivity, habit of jumping up on people, and gradually increased the amount of time he was able to be on his own, demonstrating that a dog’s behavioural or social issues can be improved with patience and consistency.
“By the time his foster period was over we were able to walk him in daylight and have him pass other dogs on the same side of the street”, he said.
According to Ross, a big part of getting Egg ready for his forever home was making sure that his new people understood what he still needed to work on. When the time came to meet Egg’s prospective adopters, Nick and Sarah, Ross was completely honest with them.
“It was important to me that Egg be set up for success and they understand that Egg was going to need some ongoing work to make sure he continues to learn how to be a happy pet. Luckily, they were both amazing and up for the challenge.”
“The handover day was an emotional one, although everyone was very supportive, and it felt great to see how nervous and excited Nick and Sarah were about getting Egg.”
According to Ross: “it was amazing seeing Egg’s personality reveal itself week after week”, and he wouldn’t hesitate to recommend people foster through Greyhound Rescue.
“I was supported at every step. I had a foster coordinator who was accessible whenever I needed advice. I was provided guidance, tips, and the occasional ear when I felt like I was struggling.”
Today, Egg, Nick and Sarah are getting along famously as every day Egg builds upon the progress Ross helped him make.
If you’re considering fostering a hound, we’d love to hear from you! Check out the information on our website and complete an application form today.
