One of the greatest stressors for dogs living in animal shelters is social isolation and human interaction helps lower cortisol levels. (Pubmed). Some dogs can withstand the isolation better than others, but many are faced with an expiration date of when they reach their tipping point. Shelters with fewer resources and volunteer involvement see the shortest timeframe for behavior deterioration. 

The good news is that dogs in temporary foster care are 14 times more likely to be adopted (MDPI). Fostering reduces stress, increases community engagement, and provides greater insights into a dogs behavior and personality in a home setting (ASPCA).

Our shelter partners are doing the best with the resources they have and animal safety and welfare is always at the forefront of their operations. If you choose to foster with one our trusted institutions, know that you are helping make a real difference in the middle Tennessee community.