Ace is my first foster dog success story

The last photo I took of Ace in my home before we went to his adoption meeting to meet his forever family.

Ace, my first foster dog with Muddy Paws Rescue, has found his forever home! I only had him for 13 days, and he will always have a special place in my heart. He’s a cuddly, silly, loving guy. It’s incredible to me that in two weeks he went from being in rough shape on the streets of Kentucky to a loving home in New York City with people who adore him.

I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that I’ve cried a lot – sad tears for me and happy tears for him. Many people have asked me how I can foster, knowing I will get attached and have to let them go. I’m doing this because the need in our shelters and for the many homeless animals we have all over the U.S. is so great. I’m dedicated to helping as many dogs as I can to honor my soul dog, Phineas, who was a shelter dog. I lost him nearly a year ago in January 2024. I want to help heal the hearts of these animals, and the people who adopt them, even though it may break my heart every time to say goodbye. It’s worth it to see these animals happy and loved.

In less than 2 weeks, Ace taught me so much. He showed me that our lives can change, for the better, so quickly with love and support from someone who cares. His resilience to trust and love people, even after all he’s been through in his short life, is something I aspire to embrace myself. Most of all, Ace showed me I’m ready to adopt a dog again when the right match comes along.

A part of me died when I lost Phinny, and I worried I might not be able to love another dog again. Ace helped bring that part of my back to life. I have no doubt that Phinny sent Ace to me, and that his spirit helped Ace feel at home in our home. Taking care of Ace, and getting him to his forever home, was something Phinny and I did together – me here on Earth and Angel Phinny across the rainbow bridge working his magic. And I’m sure he’s already at work lining up another foster dog for me, and a dog to adopt, too.

More photos of Acey below.