Fostering a dog is one of the most rewarding and magical experiences available. All we have to do is open our hearts and our homes. When you say yes to a foster dog, not only will you see the positive impact you make in their life, but you will also learn so much about yourself.  About what you're capable of. About how good giving feels. You too will change and bloom.In today’s episode, I talk you through the process of bringing home a shelter dog and how you can support and nurture him or her while they are in your care. Then I move into sharing my favorite tips, the practical advice you need to know before you bring that rescue pup into your actual house. A mindset of patience is important as there may be challenges. But by establishing a routine and giving your foster dog downtime so they can self-soothe, by setting them up to succeed and allowing them to decompress, the feedback loop will begin to build. That feedback loop created between you and your foster dog is the most sacred part of the exchange. You hear each other. You communicate. You bond. You trust the dog and the dog trusts you. And you trust you more too because of it. You feel stronger, healing parts of yourself you didn't even know needed love. Fostering dogs has elevated my life. It's part of our family culture. Having them around is a daily practice that brings me closer to the More Than Me out there, and I don't want you to miss out on that ride. If you’ve ever thought about taking in a dog in need then this episode is for you. So you’re prepared. So you're supported. So it's fun! So you know you're not alone. Animal shelters everywhere are full. Wonderful dogs hope beyond bars. Fostering is worth it, the animals are worth it, the community you become part of is worth it, you're worth it. There is great friendship waiting for you.Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)