Pets will be dewormed and have received their shots before adoption, however a family willing to take on fostering an animal would not be expected to pay for any vet, food, or supply expenses. The only expectation of a foster family is put in the time with the animal.
The animals rescued are brought in from around westman area; the group is notified of an animal in need of a home and they find a way to retrieve it. Most commonly the Animal Rescue fosters dogs and cats; they have also on occasion taken on rabbits, hamsters, and rats.
These pets often come from negative situations, older ones generally have adapted to scavenging for survival. It is important that a foster family is understanding and caring when they take on an animal, especially one that has never been in a home before.
When deciding to foster it is encouraged to consider the demeanour of other pets, your living situation, and amount of attention you can give them. Animals are looking for homes were they can be exposed to the love and affection they have been missing.
Head of the initiative Rhonda Kleebaum admits fostering can be difficult, but it is an important part of a pet’s new life. It is one stop along the journey where you have the chance to make sure the animal feels loved and cared for.
It is not uncommon for a foster family to become attached to their rescue and decide to adopt. While this is great for both the pet and family, it does mean there is one less foster home available for the steadily increasing number of animals in need.
Overpopulation of cats and dogs is a problem larger than just in the westman area; volunteers for the Westman Animal Rescue spay and neuter all animals that pass through their care if possible. It is encouraged that the general public do so as well.
With the world reopening after COVID closures, many pandemic pets are sadly being turned over to shelters and rescue services. This issue coupled with over population means there are many animals in need of fosters and forever homes.
If you wish to support Westman Animal Rescue you can volunteer as a foster as well as support financially. Volunteers spend time bartending events like socials and weddings, and going to markets. Donations go towards money spent on vet bills and food for foster animals; while adoption fees do go towards these costs they do not always completely cover the expenses. Westman Animal Rescue does not make any profits from their efforts and would greatly appreciate any contributions.

by ERIKA NEUFELD, Recorder staff