Taking care of a foster pup isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding experiences. Helping a pup overcome life’s difficulties with love and attention and then seeing them happy and smiling is truly heartwarming. This is a feeling Tamara, a dedicated foster mama, knows very well.
One Scared Pup
When Tamara first took in a foster pup needing extra love, she knew it would be a challenging task. The pup was terrified, hiding in the back of the crate with her head turned away, avoiding eye contact, and trying to make herself as small as possible. Tamara understood that gaining this pup’s trust would take time and patience.
Source: The Dodo
Despite the pup’s fear, Tamara remained patient. When she checked on the pup the next day, she found her still huddled at the back of the crate. Tamara’s instinct was to pick her up, cuddle her, and reassure her that everything would be okay. However, she knew that pups in such conditions needed to relax at their own pace. So, she gave her some space, hoping the pup would come around when she was ready.
Building Trust
The following day brought a glimmer of hope. The pup began to trust Tamara more, coming to the edge of the crate to eat. She even made eye contact with her foster mom, something she had avoided since they first met. This small step was significant, showing that the pup was slowly beginning to trust Tamara.
Source: The Dodo
That afternoon, the pup took another brave step. She came out of her crate, licked Tamara’s hand, and quickly retreated back inside. This small gesture reassured Tamara that they were making progress. Tamara imagined the pup thinking, “They are feeding me, it’s warm, maybe it’s a safe place!”
Magical Friendship
One day, Tamara’s son approached the pup with some food in his hand. He called out to her, and to everyone’s surprise, she came running out, tail wagging, to say hello. Tamara’s son was thrilled, exclaiming, “Mom, she said hi!” From that point on, the pup, named Parker, truly came out of her shell. She began to enjoy every moment with her foster family, playing and interacting with everyone.
Parker’s Transformation
Seeing Parker transform from a shy, scared pup into a playful, affectionate dog filled Tamara’s heart with joy. Parker’s newfound confidence and happiness were evident as she played with her foster family and greeted every human she met with excitement. However, this also meant that Parker was ready to find a forever family of her own.
Source: The Dodo
New Life
When Parker arrived at her new home, she immediately settled in. She bonded quickly with her new family and her furry sibling, Willow. The transition was seamless, and Parker blossomed in her new environment. Kristen, Parker’s new mom, was amazed at how much Parker had changed. “She really blossomed, and it’s crazy to think that she even was that same dog,” Kristen said.
Source: The Dodo
Living Her Best Life
Now, Parker is living her best life, enjoying fun playdates and sweet cuddles with her new family. Her journey from a scared, withdrawn pup to a happy, playful dog is a testament to the power of love, patience, and the incredible impact of fostering. Good girl, Parker!
