As told to Volunteer Julie Velthoen by Volunteer Karen Branch
Just like me, when volunteer Karen Branch first joined SDF, she envisioned herself eventually fostering one of the available dogs in the Canine Placement Program. Karen decided to take the plunge when a plea was sent to the volunteer squad for help with Piper, a 12-year-old Aussie sweetie who returned to SDF after 10 years of family life due to a family member’s health issues. When Karen saw the plea asking for volunteer help, she did not hesitate. Piper arrived at Karen’s home the very next day.
After the first hectic day, Piper settled in, quietly observing and getting to know Karen’s furry family of two dogs, Peek-A-Boo and Skipper, and cat, Mr. Kitty. Soon, Peek-A-Boo was teaching Piper when to expect daily meals and treats, and Skipper showed her how to have fun. In no time, she was trotting around with both dogs, going on walks in the neighborhood, playing in the yard, and sharing treats. She built a special bond with Mr. Kitty—they would lie peacefully next to each other on the ottoman. Eventually, Piper stood vigil over him when his time came to cross the Rainbow Bridge (he was 19!).
In a short time, it was clear that Piper was a natural fit for this family, and Karen made it official by adopting her! A few months later, on Christmas Day, Karen noticed Piper lying in the middle of the room with an actual smile of contentment as the holiday festivities went on around her. Karen’s generosity of spirit and home transformed Piper from a shut-down senior citizen to a happy pup!
When I asked Karen if she would foster again, she said, “Yes! Especially if there was another Piper!”
Thank you Karen, for sharing your story, and thank you for giving Piper the love and home she so deserved.
Like me, if you’re contemplating fostering—do not be scared! Not every foster ends up a fail and gets adopted! Sometimes, a dog just needs a pillow to rest on while we search for their fur-ever home.