Column: Got two weeks to foster a large-breed dog? Pasadena Humane might have a fit for you

Six-year-old Jax (A515085) was brought to the shelter in early June. He had severe skin irritation issues that caused him to lose a lot of his fur. You would have a hard time recognizing him now; after a series of medicated baths, good-quality food and lots of TLC, his fur has nearly all grown back, and his shiny black coat is nothing short of luxurious. Jax is the perfect balance of playful energy and a mellow vibe. He loves sitting on a park bench or the couch by your side, soaking up the sun and all the pets and scratches he can get. He plays fetch in the yard, but his goal seems to be checking who will stop playing and give him more pets. If you are looking for a master cuddler who is also tons of fun, Jax is your guy! Jax and all other dogs and cats 5 years and older can be adopted for free during the month of Nov., Adopt-A-Senior Pet Month! Learn more at pasadenahumane.org/adopt.

Earlier this year, a stray black-and-white dog arrived at Pasadena Humane in rough shape. This lovable five-year-old pit bull mix, soon to be named Jax, had clearly been neglected in his former life.

He suffered from extreme skin allergies and an ear infection that had gone untreated for some time. With dedicated medical care, Jax began to feel much better physically. However, after weeks in the shelter waiting for a new family, he started showing signs of kennel stress.

To help him, we prioritized getting him into a foster home, where he could wait for an adopter while enjoying the comfort and warmth of a loving caretaker. He was paired with Chelsea Wood, a first-time foster parent for our organization.

A self-professed large dog lover, Chelsea shares only glowing remarks about Jax during their time together. “Jax is one of the sweetest dogs I’ve ever met!” she told us. “He’s never met a dog or human he didn’t love, and they love him right back!”

Foster homes are a lifeline for dogs like Jax. As a middle-aged, large-breed dog with skin allergies, Jax may have a longer stay than, say, a younger, small-breed dog with no obvious health issues. Spending time in a foster home allows dogs like Jax to rediscover life as cherished companions.

Fostering a pet from your local shelter is one of the most impactful things you can do to help a homeless animal. At Pasadena Humane, we’re always recruiting foster parents who can care for companion animals of all ages.

At this time, our greatest need is foster volunteers for large-breed dogs. We ask for a two-week commitment. An extended foster getaway gives dogs the essential time they need to decompress from shelter life and show off their true personalities.

Considering fostering a dog? We provide all the supplies, medical care, and support you’ll need. Plus, here are five great reasons to foster right now:

Be a Lifesaver – At Pasadena Humane, we’re committed to helping every animal in need in our service area. But this means our kennels are often very full. Each dog placed in a foster home immediately opens kennel space for another dog in need.

Change a Dog’s Life – Waiting for an adopter in a loving home is much better for a dog’s well-being than living in a kennel. Plus, foster parents help dogs become more adoptable by learning about their personalities and sharing that information with potential adopters.

Short-Term Companionship – Fostering is a great option for those who are not ready for the long-term commitment of dog ownership or who are not able to permanently add a second or third dog to their home.

Health and Wellness – Foster dogs provide the emotional and health benefits of dog companionship, such as increasing social connection, physical activity, and giving a sense of purpose—without the long-term responsibility.

Home for the Holidays – Now is an ideal time to bring home a foster dog. Your foster pup won’t have to spend the holidays alone in the shelter, and you’ll enjoy the love and warmth of a furry friend during the season.

I hope you’ll consider bringing home a foster dog like Jax this holiday season. To learn more about fostering through Pasadena Humane, visit our website at pasadenahumane.org/foster

P.S. Jax is still available for adoption, and his adoption fee is waived all November during Adopt a Senior Pet Month! If you’re interested in bringing him home, connect with our adoptions team at pasadenahumane.org/adopt

Dia DuVernet is president and CEO of Pasadena Humane.

This blog post originally appeared as a column in the Pasadena Star-News on November 22, 2024.