Foster Friday: Iliana, Youth Ambassador

Welcome to our latest edition of Foster Friday! This week we are honoring a very special long-time supporter of Wags & Walks, Iliana, who exemplifies that you can make a difference no matter your age. Iliana is currently fostering Chrissy, one of the most adorable pit puppies we've laid eyes on. Despite these challenging times, Iliana continues to provide a loving place for Wags & Walks' pups in need. Read on to learn more about her passion for fostering and why she thinks you should give it a try!

Tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Iliana and I’m 12 years old. I’ve loved dogs my whole life and it's always been my passion to help them.

What got you started fostering for Wags & Walks?

When I was nine, I started looking for places to volunteer to rescue dogs. I found Wags and Walks and fell in love with all the dogs and the people! When I turned 10 we got our first foster dog, Jo.

To date, how many dogs have you fostered for Wags? Do you have a favorite? (Don't worry, we won't tell the others!)

We are currently fostering Chrissy, and she is our 33rd foster dog. I don’t have one favorite, I have two: Bridget, who was our second foster, who was SO sweet (and we almost ended up adopting!), and Ezra, who we had for 8 months(!) before she went to her forever home.

What has been your biggest challenge fostering?

For me, it used to be giving up the dog when they got adopted. Now, I know that they are going to a great home so that no longer is a big challenge.

What has been your biggest surprise as a foster parent?

The biggest surprise was my dad. My dad never really had a passion and love for dogs, but the connections he’s made with some of our fosters are incredible. We came so close to adopting our foster dog Bridget because of my dad’s love for her.

Do you have any advice for someone who is interested in becoming a foster?

Do it! It makes the household lighter, more fun, and more full with smiles and especially laughter.

Xo,

The Wags Team