Fostering dogs is one of the most rewarding experiences a dog lover can have. You offer love, stability, and a safe space to a dog in transition. But sometimes, a foster puppy comes along and changes everything. You look at her and think, “How could I ever say goodbye?” That’s precisely what happened to me—and here’s why I chose to adopt her instead of placing her in a new home.
1. The Right Energy in a Multi-Dog Household
Anyone with multiple dogs knows the magic— and occasional chaos —that comes with managing a pack. But the real secret to harmony in a multi-dog household is the dynamic. It's not about how many dogs you have but how well they mesh.
My foster puppy brought a gentle confidence and joyful playfulness that beautifully balanced my other dogs. She respected boundaries, engaged in healthy play, and didn’t disrupt the flow of our home. When you see that kind of synergy between dogs, it’s rare—and something truly special. It wasn’t just that she fit in; it was that she belonged.
2. Supporting Animal Rescue in a Different Way
Fostering is a direct way to help rescue organizations. But adopting a foster dog doesn't mean you're stepping away from that mission—it just shifts how you support it.
By adopting, I opened up space for another dog to be fostered. More importantly, I gave one dog—this one very special puppy—a forever home she didn’t need to leave again. Rescues thrive when dogs find stable placements, and by giving her that, I’m still part of the mission.
3. Why Raise Multiple Dogs? Here’s Why I Love It
There’s a rhythm and richness to life with more than one dog. Here are a few reasons I (and many others) find joy in raising multiple pups:
Built-in companionship – Dogs are social animals. They often enjoy having another dog to play with, nap, and explore.
Less boredom, fewer behavior issues – Dogs entertain each other and often exhibit fewer destructive behaviors when a friend mentally and physically stimulates them.
Watching their bond grow—There’s something deeply heartwarming about seeing dogs develop their own relationships. They learn from one another, comfort each other, and form a pack that includes you.
It strengthens your bond with all of them – Caring for multiple dogs teaches you patience, empathy, and communication. You become more attuned to each dog’s personality and needs.
Every dog has something to teach – Each dog adds a new perspective to your world: courage, gentleness, resilience, silliness, or unconditional love.
4. Sometimes, Love Says “Stay”
There’s a saying in rescue: “Foster with your head, adopt with your heart.” When you know deep down that your home is the home—when your foster becomes your shadow, your heart dog, or your pack’s perfect piece—it’s okay to stop being a stop along the way and become their destination.
That’s what happened to me. I didn't plan to adopt. But love doesn’t always stick to plans. My foster puppy wasn't just another dog in need of help. She was the dog that helped me—reminding me why I do this work, why I open my home, and why sometimes... you just know.
Introducing Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Buffy is originally from Southern California, where her mom and her littermates were abandoned in an orchard. A woman came across the scared family and took them to safety. The dogs were covered in fleas and ticks and dehydrated. Our rescue, Save-a-Mutt - a foster-based rescue organization - was contacted, and the Directors agreed to accept this family.
Unfortunately, the puppies broke with parvo shortly after being taken into a California foster home, and thanks to canine parvovirus monoclonal antibody (CPMA), they recovered quickly. CPMA is an IV injection that can halt the virus, keeping it from worsening when the injection is given when parvo is initially diagnosed. This is an expensive treatment that is saving the lives of puppies.
Once the puppies recovered, they were put on a transport with their mom to Washington. The puppies have found forever homes, a few due to foster fails, and we stay in touch. Buffy’s mom is in Tacoma, Washington, a few hours south of our home. Her siblings are scattered around Western Washington.
I’m a Save-a-Mutt board member and see hundreds of pictures and videos of puppies, but rarely see a dog when I just know. I knew when I saw Rodrigo for the first time, my first dog as an adult. The feeling came over me when I saw a video of Blue. And again, when Bella, our other Save-a-Mutt puppy, crawled into my lap at a rescue event.
I got that feeling when I saw pictures of Buffy. And I think she had the same feeling because she walked into our house on her first day as if she were returning home, and familiarity has been consistent since Day One.
I knew Buffy would thrive in a home with a big yard and other dogs. I was prepared to give her up until she looked at me one day. In that glance, it was like she could read my mind. She has these soulful eyes, and her body language was pressing into the sofa and one of my dogs. It was then that I realized she was already home.
I contacted our Director and paid the adoption fee.
Adopting a foster puppy is a personal decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. But when the fit is right and the bond is strong, it’s a beautiful way to deepen your commitment to animal rescue and to give a deserving dog the forever family she never has to leave again.
Be sure to follow me on Instagram to see pictures and videos of our new addition. Later this week, I’ll post more details about her breed mix and diet on Instagram.