Editor:
Because ARF is not a shelter, we cannot take in dogs unless we have available foster families.
When we were approached about taking Lefty Lou, we had no available foster families. We explained this to AnaLia, and she came back to us saying her friend (XXX) would foster the dog and asked if we would help find it a home.
Of course we said we would. However, ARF did not do an “intake” of this dog, did not assume responsibility for her and did not place her with this foster. The placement of this dog with this particular foster was a decision and move made by solely AnaLia.
AnaLia (or her daughter) did send us $100, which was used for Lefty Lou’s care while in XXX’s home. The $100 did not cover the total cost for XXX to care for the dog, so ARF stepped up, providing food and veterinary care.
We also had Lefty Lou at the ARF House on weekends to see if we could find her a home. More than once when she was with us, she attacked ARF dogs, so we were unable to have her there if we had “our” dogs there at the same time.
AnaLia chose this foster. This foster’s son had issues with the dog; his actions had nothing to do with ARF. It was a tragedy, and we feel terrible that it happened. All ARF did was try to help find a home for this dog.
We wish we could rescue each and every dog that comes our way, but we simply cannot. We feel so sad when a dog or cat loses its family, whether it is abandoned or the family chooses to have it rehomed. We help when and however we are able.
But until we have limitless foster families, we have to make difficult decisions. Even generous donations cannot buy foster families. If there is no foster home for a dog, there is no way we can assume responsibility for it. We have to say no, as much as we hate to.
We are so sorry for Lefty Lou’s fate and her family’s loss. Every pet deserves a safe, loving family, and we at ARF work hundreds of hours each month to do our best to see that this happens.
Janice Murasko
ARF Director of Operations