At the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA, we believe in second chances — and often, the first step toward that second chance isn’t adoption. It’s fostering.

Foster caregivers are the bridge between shelter and forever home — a safe place for animals to heal, grow, and become their best selves. And for senior pets or those dealing with anxiety, that bridge is absolutely critical.

Rocky’s story is a perfect example of how transformative fostering can be — not just for the animal, but for the caregiver, too.

From Loss and Anxiety to Love and Healing

When Rocky, a senior dog, arrived at the HBSPCA, he was grieving the loss of his lifelong owner. He was withdrawn, confused, and anxious — and he was also in pain. Rocky had severe dental disease and a large mass on his tail that required surgery, making recovery both physically uncomfortable and emotionally overwhelming.

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Like many animals coping with trauma, Rocky struggled in the shelter environment. That’s where fostering stepped in to make all the difference.

One of our staff members brought Rocky home, giving him what he needed most: a calm, supportive space and the stability to feel safe again.

In just a few weeks, Rocky began to change. He started to trust. His anxiety eased. His personality began to shine through. The shy senior we met at intake slowly became a confident, loving companion who even came to work each day — quickly earning the title of the “HBSPCA Office Manager” thanks to his dedication to treat distribution and team morale.

Fostering Helps Animals Thrive

For dogs like Rocky — seniors with anxiety, medical needs, or emotional trauma — a foster home offers something a shelter can’t always provide:

• Peace and quiet
• Consistency and routine
• A space to decompress
• One-on-one attention and trust-building

In that environment, animals begin to feel safe enough to be themselves. They sleep better. They eat more regularly. They show affection. And most importantly, they become ready for adoption.

“Watching him come alive again and find joy after everything he’d been through... it reminded me why I do this work,” Rocky’s foster shared.

A Rewarding Journey for the Caregiver, Too

Fostering is not just life-changing for the animals — it’s deeply rewarding for the people who open their homes. Being part of an animal’s journey from fear to freedom, from heartbreak to hope, is unlike anything else.

You become a stepping stone — the one who helps them get ready for their forever. You see the difference you’ve made, and then you watch them move on — stronger, healthier, and full of life — into a home where they can thrive long-term.

It’s emotional, yes. But it’s also joyful.

You Provide the Care — We Cover the Costs

One of the most common misconceptions about fostering is that the caregiver is financially responsible for food, toys, or medical care. That’s not the case.

When you foster with the HBSPCA, we provide everything your foster pet needs — including:

• Food and treats
• Toys and bedding
• Medications and veterinary care
• Ongoing support from our team

All you need to provide is love, time, and a safe space to stay.

Be a Stepping Stone — Foster with Us

Right now, we’re actively seeking foster homes for animals like Rocky — especially senior pets, animals recovering from surgery, and those with anxiety or emotional needs.

If you’ve ever thought about fostering, now is the time.

Because sometimes, the most important part of an animal’s journey is the part before adoption — the part where they learn to trust again, feel safe again, and discover who they truly are.

Learn more and sign up to foster today