This weekend, Otis went off to his forever home after more than 8 months in our care. Otis and his littermate, Lazarus, may not have been our longest residents, but their start and journey certainly have been our more complex and challenging in recent months.

Otis and Laz almost never got the chance at a good life — but Otis has now beaten the odds twice. We’re so, so thankful for the incredible fosters who opened their hearts and homes to make that happen.

A huge thank-you to the Georgina Animal Shelter and Adoption Centre for initiating their welcome, to Mattie's Place for helping with their rescue and initial vet care, to Otis’ many foster families for their patience and dedication, and to his forever family for being willing to take on a little boy with a rough start who deserved a loving home more than anything.

The truth is — dogs like Otis and Missy simply wouldn’t make it without foster homes. These are the animals who come to us shut down, fearful, and unsure of people. Being scared and shut down in a shelter often times is a death sentence. They need fosters who go above and beyond — the ones willing to put in the extra time, love, and work to help them heal, trust, and finally learn what it means to be safe. Without those compassionate fosters, dogs like Otis wouldn’t get a second chance. They are the reason these success stories exist.

We’ve had many recent adoption wins — some smooth and quick, others long and full of challenges — including Odie, Missy, Otis, Toby, and Patsy. Every single one of them reminds us why we do what we do, and how vital foster homes are to making these happy endings possible

If you’ve ever thought about volunteering or fostering, we hope Otis’ story inspires you to take that step. You’re not “just” providing a temporary home — you’re saving lives and helping the most vulnerable animals find hope again.