MABTR Family - Lisa in IA

The happiness and satisfaction I get when finding the perfect forever home for my foster; it’s a feeling like no other.

We have been volunteering for MABTR since 2021. We moved from Minot, North Dakota to Des Moines Iowa with two Boston Terriers that are now 11 and 13. We love the breed and always wanted to foster.

Living in Des Moines provided that opportunity. Being new to the area I didn’t know many people. I’ve met the most incredible people through the rescue – many that I am blessed to call my friends.

MABTR is a great community of people that love Bostons just like I do.

The first few years, we were full on fostering. We are currently remodeling our house making it difficult to foster. We are still able to stay active by hosting events at our home like the BOSTON BOO. October 2025 will be our third annual event we hosted and they just keep getting bigger and better. This has been a fun experience. We also spread the word about MABTR by setting up the rescue table at various events.

There are definitely more rewards than challenges for fostering and volunteering. We had a few that came from awful living conditions and were terrified of humans. I found myself crawling under the deck in the dead of winter trying to coax a terrified puppy to come in where it’s warm. It is heart wrenching and can be frustrating. It is temporary though. I know for a fact that many of my fosters are truly living their best life – and it wouldn’t have happened had I not said yes to the call. It’s even better when the families keep in touch and provide periodic updates on their new addition. It’s very gratifying.

If you are thinking about becoming a volunteer, you will never meet a better group of people. Not only will you be helping a pup in need, but you will also expand your own horizons. I tell people I am a great foster parent because I have two Bostons of my own and do not want a third dog. It does make it easier to not foster fail. I’ve also encouraged people to not foster fail their first foster - especially if it will prevent them from fostering again. Fostering a few times, learning the process, is such a great experience. I can’t say enough of what a great job Jennifer does for the rescue, and I have tremendous respect for her and everyone that is part of the rescue.