Sample Story

We started fostering dogs for the Bloemfontein SPCA three years ago. My children were eight and ten at the time. I thought it would be a nice thing to do. I had no idea it would become the most important life lesson they have ever received.

Our first foster was a terrified Staffie cross named Patches. She hid under the bed for two days. My son sat on the floor outside the bedroom reading to her — just so she could hear a calm voice. By day three she crept out and rested her head on his leg.

Since then we have fostered twenty-two dogs. Some stayed for a week, some for months. My children have learned to be gentle with frightened animals, patient with slow learners, and brave enough to say goodbye when a foster finds a permanent home.

The hardest part is always letting go. We have cried at every handover. But we have also learned that letting go means making space for the next animal who needs us.

Our home is always open. If you have the space, even temporarily, consider fostering. It will change your children. It will change you.