One More Dog, One More Chance: Why Fostering Matters
For many animal lovers, the question isn’t if they want to help—it’s how. For Laurie Lewis, a new Humane Society of Loudoun County (HSLC) foster, the answer was clear: fostering offered a way to help not just one dog, but many.
Having fostered—and adopted—dogs in the past, Laurie knew firsthand the joy of opening her home. This time, she made a thoughtful decision. Instead of adopting again right away, she chose fostering so she could continue making a difference for multiple dogs over time. “Fostering was something I wanted to get into again and hopefully help more than one dog,” she shared.
Her journey back to fostering came after the loss of her own dog—a difficult goodbye, made even more complex by the fact that he didn’t get along with other dogs. When the time felt right, fostering became a meaningful next step. “After I lost him a year ago, it seemed like a good time to start fostering.”
For those who feel a pull toward fostering but hesitate, her advice is refreshingly honest: yes, it can be an adjustment—but it’s worth it. “It’s always a challenge to bring a new pet into your household. You just have to have patience. Animals just want love.”
And then there’s Goose
Goose isn’t just any foster dog—“He’s the friendliest dog I’ve ever met. Everyone is a friend,” she says. Goose is a cuddle enthusiast, a kiss-giver, and a self-proclaimed lapdog despite his strength—especially when it comes to his favorite game of tug-of-war. He loves chasing balls (though returning them is still a work in progress), enjoys leisurely sniff-filled walks, and bursts into joyful zoomies across the yard.
More than anything, Goose wants to be near his people. A home full of love and companionship would be perfect for this affectionate, social pup.
In return, Goose has given just as much as he’s received. “He’s my shadow and a great companion,” she shares. “I know more people in my neighborhood now because he always wants to say hello.” Thanks to Goose’s outgoing personality, daily walks have turned into moments of connection—with neighbors, new friends, and plenty of admirers who can’t help but comment on how handsome he is.
Behind the scenes, fostering isn’t something you do alone—and that’s where HSLC steps in. From providing medications like monthly flea and tick prevention to offering vacation fosters, help is always just a call or email away. “HSLC has been very supportive and responsive,” she says. “It makes the whole experience easier.”
And while fostering usually means saying goodbye, it’s also about something bigger: giving a dog a second chance at life.
“I’m so glad he’s not in a shelter anymore and I love having him,” she says. “Goose is a very special dog. He’ll be a great companion for someone. He has so much love to give. I’m glad to be able to care for him until he finds his forever home.”
Could you be that bridge for a dog like Goose?
Fostering doesn’t require perfection—just patience, compassion, and a willingness to open your heart home, even temporarily. And in return, you’ll gain something truly special: the chance to change a life… and maybe your own, too. Learn more and apply today!
