Losing my soul dog, Bosley, on April 1, 2022, shattered my world. The grief was unbearable, like a weight pressing on my chest, making it hard to breathe. I struggled to get out of bed and felt consumed by emptiness, but also had so much love I didn’t know where to place.
In June 2022, my husband and I unexpectedly adopted Bonnie, a senior dog who became my saving grace. Bonnie didn’t take away my grief, but she gave me purpose and comfort when I needed it most. She reminded me that healing often comes in the form of giving love to others.
Still grieving, I decided to take a step I had been contemplating for years: fostering dogs.
Taking the Leap into Fostering
In October 2022, I submitted my foster application to the Nebraska Humane Society (NHS). My husband and I have always had a soft spot for bully breeds, but our goal was to help any dog that was a good fit for our home, regardless of breed.
One day, I came across a dog named Precious on NHS's list. On October 19, I emailed to see if she was still available for fostering. The answer was "yes," and we scheduled to pick her up the very next day.
Meeting Precious
Precious was a small, white Staffy mix, and nothing could have prepared me for seeing her in person. When the staff brought her out, my heart sank. She was so thin that her ribs were fully visible, her skin was yellow stained from urine, and she had chronic diarrhea.
She had been labeled an emergency medical foster, meaning she needed a safe, loving home to begin her healing journey before should would be available for adoption. On October 20, 2022, my husband and I brought her home – our very first foster dog.
Precious’s Journey with Us
Even as a seasoned dog mom, every new dog I bring home always feels like the first. I was meticulous with her care, ensuring she felt safe and comfortable. Despite her medical challenges, she adapted quickly to our home.
We introduced her slowly to Bonnie, who, while not playful, was incredibly welcoming. Precious also got along wonderfully with our cats. Her gentle spirit and resilience were immediately apparent.
She loved to sunbathe, nap, and snuggle with us. Because of her thin fur and fragile skin, some amazing NHS volunteers donated jackets to keep her warm and protected. She quickly became part of our family, and her sweetness stole our hearts.
Heartbreak and a Lasting Legacy
Precious’s main challenges were chronic diarrhea and her need to gain weight. Despite small victories, like gaining a pound after a week, her health took a turn for the worse. Her appetite disappeared, and her abdomen became swollen.
Additional tests revealed that her condition was worsening, and the heartbreaking decision was made to let her cross the rainbow bridge.
We had only 2.5 weeks with Precious, but in that short time, she showed us the true meaning of unconditional love. She trusted us despite her past, and she left an unforgettable mark on our hearts.
Why Fostering Matters
Precious’s story is why I’m so passionate about fostering. It’s my way of honoring her and all our fur babies we’ve loved and lost. Fostering allows us to give dogs in need a second chance, even if their time is brief.
If you’re considering fostering, I can’t encourage you enough to take the leap. Research your local shelters and rescues, ask questions, and open your heart. Not every organization is the same, so find one that aligns with your values.
I promise that you will change that dog’s life for the better, but they will also change yours.
A Message of Gratitude
Precious taught me about resilience, love, and the impact we can make when we open our hearts to those in need. She’s the reason fostering is so close to my heart, and her legacy continues to inspire me.
Thank you for taking the time to honor Precious’s story with me. To learn more about our time with Precious, we'd love for you to take some time to watch the video we made about her. If you’d like to read about our next foster, Layla, and her incredible journey, check it out here.
With love and pawsitivity,
Susie Cogswell, Cogs Dogs Mom
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