When Love Has Somewhere to Go: The Fergusons’ Foster Journey

There are so many reasons people choose to foster. For some, it’s about helping a pet in need. For others, it begins in a quieter place, shaped by loss, love, and the desire to make space for something meaningful again.

Today, we’re sharing reflections from the Fergusons, whose fostering journey began during a tender season and grew into something deeply transformative, for the dogs in their care and for their own hearts. 🧡

Here is their story—

We wanted to take a moment to share some reflections on our experience with fostering. Our journey began after we experienced the heart-wrenching loss of both of our beloved dogs within just two years. The emptiness left behind was palpable, and we deeply missed the companionship and excitement that greeted us whenever we came home.

There's an old saying that serving others brings its own rewards, and that perfectly encapsulates what fostering has meant to us. Providing a safe, secure, and loving home might seem like a small gesture, but for a foster who may have never known such an environment, it can mean the world. Offering these three simple things allows the foster to relax, reenergize, and reanimate themselves. It's truly an amazing transformation to witness.

The real gift in fostering is seeing a foster open up, embrace companionship, and thrive through unconditional love. This journey is incredibly fulfilling, as it not only changes the foster's life but also enriches our own. Sharing this experience with adopters is equally rewarding, as they get to see firsthand the positive changes and ultimately, experience the joy of giving a foster a forever home.

When we first started, we were unsure what to expect, but the Richmond Animal League (RAL) made the process so easy! RAL is incredibly flexible when we’ve needed them to be and are always there to provide support. We've had the greatest pleasure fostering six of the sweetest pups around—Azalea, Agave, Kandie, Ace, Cheer, and Stromboli.

If the Fergusons’ story speaks to you, consider what fostering could look like in your own home. Whether you’re healing, missing the sound of paws on the floor, or simply ready to help, fostering is a powerful way to make a difference.

At RAL, we provide the support, resources, and guidance you need every step of the way. You provide the safe place to land.

Learn more about becoming a foster. One open door can change everything. 🧡