March 14th issue of Newsweek:
Pets: Taking Up The Leash
March 14 issue - The duffel is packed, the ammo is loaded, but what to do with Fido? Many soldiers shipping out for duty, especially reservists with little advance warning, have no choice but to give up their pets to shelters, abandon them or even have them put to sleep. Aeyne Anne Dizicksa, an Army reservist now stationed in Germany, was forced to have three elderly cats euthanized before an earlier activation. This time, she turned to Operation Noble Foster (operationnoblefoster.org), which matches called-up cat owners with families willing to take in their pets.
"Having my pets in foster care and knowing that I am coming back to them is extremely calming," says Dizicksa. Another organization, Military Pets Foster Project (netpets.org), offers the same service for cats, dogs, birds, fish and even horses. The sites are free, though soldiers are asked to pick up food and vet bills (most families decline the food money). If you're interested in signing up, visit the Web sites to fill out forms and provide references.
Operation Noble Foster
Military Pets Foster Project
Operation Noble Foster
Re: Operation Noble Foster
I live in a military town, and think this is such a wonderful morale booster for our soldiers, and encourage anyone who can help. For all I know, Louie may have been abandoned.....the timing was about right. He was a bit skinny, but cared for and neutered. If only I knew....