With 89 dogs in care, rescue organization ‘in desperate need’ of foster homes

Saskatoon Dog Rescue is issuing an urgent call for foster homes, saying the situation is becoming desperate.

The non-profit — which it says is “dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of neglected and abandoned dogs across Saskatchewan” – said it currently has 89 dogs under its care and is still receiving intake requests, leaving the volunteer-run organization “in desperate need of more foster homes.”

In April, more than 60 dogs were brought into the rescue’s care, and the waiting list is currently more than 30 dogs long, putting “significant strain” on the group’s foster network.

Courtney Fisher, president of Saskatoon Dog Rescue, said a shortage of foster homes is nothing new, but lately the situation has become dire.

“While foster home shortages seem to be an ongoing issue across Saskatchewan, the number of intake requests we have received lately has been unimaginable. We have no available foster homes and are at a loss of what to do,” Fisher said in a statement.

The organization encouraged anyone interested in fostering a dog to sign up or find more information on its website. The rescue said dogs from puppies to seniors are available to be fostered, and noted it covers necessary veterinary expenses, provides supplies, and offers ongoing support to foster families throughout the process.

“We understand that fostering a dog is a big commitment, but the rewards are immeasurable,” Fisher said.

“These dogs come from all walks of life and we can never fully understand their history. Some are strays, some have been surrendered, but regardless of their background, seeing them come full circle and receive a second chance at life is the best feeling in the world.”

Saskatoon Dog Rescue said it arranged the adoption of more than 340 dogs to loving families last year.