It's a new year and a time for reflection on what has gone before and what will be in this new year and new decade. I want to thank the BRAT officers for their dedication to the breed and the time that they invest on a daily basis to ensuring that all basenjis find a safe and forever home. I am a dabbler--I choose when to foster, when to transport, when to contribute to this blog. They do this day in and day out without complaint and lead us admirably. I am grateful for their passion and their expertise. I really am a better basenji pack leader because of them.
For those of us "regular" people, I offer some New Year's resolutions that won't be hard to keep and will benefit this wonderful organization. I personally resolve to do them all:
1. Consider fostering. BRAT can never have enough fosters. It's a wonderful experience, not always perfect, certainly challenging, but it's the best thing you will ever do. It is the most amazing feeling to realize that you have had a part in removing a dog from a difficult or dangerous situation and have provided stability and love until an adopter is found. And then, when that adopter is found, you have ensured that that wonderful animal has found permanent security and a better life. I only do it a couple of times a year, but I resolve to continue my small efforts. Even if you can only do it once a year, it makes a difference.
2. Consider participating in a BUR transport. I started doing these last year and it is a great experience! Usually it's on a weekend and the coordinators are mindful of your limitations on time. It usually is only one day out of your week/weekend, but you will have played a huge role in ensuring that a basenji reaches a foster or adopter to begin a new life. I didn't realize how good it would make me feel to help in this volunteer effort.
3. Vote every day in the Shelter Challenge. It takes less than a minute to participate, but it pays off big in the end. BRAT has received almost $10,000 over the course of this online event. Don't forget; don't get too busy. Make it the first thing you do every morning; make it a habit. It's the easiest way to support our wonderful organization.
4. Think about becoming a Guest blogger or a regular blogger to this blog. We all have experiences and information to share. We'd love to hear from you.
5. Give a financial contribution to BRAT. It doesn't have to be a large amount. I don't know how many members we have--let's say 1000. If each of us gave $25 a year, that would be $25,000 to our organization. Every dollar is a dollar that can be used to provide a safe environment for a dog in need.
Join me in making these New Year's resolutions the ones you keep this year.
Hear, hear!! I couldn't agree more. I personally have tried fostering and it was difficult for my situation, but I think I'm getting ready to give it another go this year. There are just too many dogs that are desperate for safe places to go, for me to be selfish with my time and my home. I think I can bear a little inconvenience if it means saving a life. And I decided that I can certainly afford to part with $25 -- it's such a small amount but for a dog it can provide a month's worth of food. My check is in the mail!
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