Every shelter dog has a story. This is Penny’s

Penny was found on the side of the road by Shafter Animal Control. She was struggling to walk, but had no visible wounds. The shelter veterinarian took x-rays and discovered that she has an old break in her femur and pelvis. His recommended treatment was crate rest, as she was already healing. He said Penny will most likely have a slight limp for the rest of her life, but will be able to do everything normal if she is allowed to rest and heal.

A Shafter shelter volunteer took this video of Penny when she first arrived.

But the shelter was crowded and special needs dogs like Penny don’t have the best chances for adoption. Shelter volunteers knew that after Penny’s stray holding period was up she would be euthanized. They contacted several rescue groups until they found ours.

Penny has been in our home for over three weeks now and is making a huge recovery.

Though she was very nervous and defensive around other dogs at first, she and our Nelson have become inseparable buddies.

She even got to see Petey and Nelson all dressed up for Halloween.

But the best part of it? She can play again! (For short periods of time)

Dogs like Penny are the reason why I foster: to help dogs recover and transition into their forever homes. It will be bittersweet when she leaves our care, but at least we know that we played a part in getting her on the path to a great life.

Fostering is the ultimate expression of love for dogs. It requires work, occasional sleep-deprived nights, and assorted cleaning products, but no one can say that it isn’t worth it.