Cheyenne & Josh

• Your Name(s):
Josh and Cheyenne Boswell
 
• Who have you fostered?:
Moose, Fisher, and Nash
 
• How long have you been fostering?
Since November 2020.
 
• How did you get into fostering?
During Covid I had a lightbulb moment where I realized I wasn’t doing anything to give back. I started searching for volunteer opportunities and clearly picked a bad time since everything was shutdown. Fostering was the perfect opportunity and one of the best decisions I have made.
 
• Why do you specifically foster with the SEGSP Rescue?
I absolutely love the breed, there is such a need because their energy isn’t a match for everyone, and it’s truly an amazing organization.  
 
• Do you have any pets of your own? How do they adjust every time a new foster arrives?
I do. I have 2 GSPs (1 being a foster fail) and an Italian Greyhound. Things have gone really well so far. My senior Italian Greyhound keeps her distance from my dogs and our fosters. They are a little too rowdy for her. My GSPs are always excited for a new playmate. It usually takes the fosters a couple of days to warm up and some even have to learn how to actually play.
 
• How has fostering positively impacted you and/or your family?
I have an extremely close family and it’s just something else for us to enjoy together. My mom is a huge help. She comes over everyday to let them out to play and also helps with training. My mom, brother, and sister in law all pitch in any way they can. Whether it’s riding along for a pick up or drop off or coming to help get them settled on their first day. My entire family absolutely loves dogs so it’s definitely a family affair.
 
• Is it difficult to say good-bye to a foster and not get too attached?
I cry every time. But I am also so incredibly excited that they are going to a home where they will get the love, attention, and experiences they have always deserved. It’s crazy how you can be so happy and excited but a little sad at the same time. I always remind myself that each one adopted out reopens the space for me to help the next one in need that comes along.
 
• What are some myths that you have heard about fostering? 
Not so much a myth but I know before I joined SEGSP Rescue I had the perception that my help wasn’t needed. I felt there were plenty of volunteers. I never in a million years could have imagined how big the need truly is. When we got the email about our first foster, Moose, who was at our local shelter I remember calling my husband so excited. I told him we had to foster him because it may be our only opportunity to ever foster. We have had a 4 month period since we signed up that we haven’t had a foster in our home, by choice of course. I also didn’t realize before signing up that you get to make the decision as to which dogs you are able to foster.
 
• What would you say to someone who might be considering fostering?
Do it. It’s truly life changing and not at all what I expected it to be. It’s challenging but so incredibly fulfilling. Nothing worth it is ever easy. If you have questions about the process or are uncertain don’t be afraid to ask questions.
 
• Do you have a favorite foster story or moment?
Moose is my favorite foster story and a true testament to how incredibly amazing dogs are. He came into my home afraid, hungry, and so weak he could only stand for a few moments. In just a few weeks he learned to trust and and absolutely loved my husband. After all that he had been through he was so quick to love and forgive.
 
Thank you Boswell family for all that you do!