Anthem News Photo
It started about four years ago with a cat that was hanging out at the door across the street. The owners had moved, leaving the cat bewildered and alone. So, Jody Ford called Anthem Pets to report the sad scene and she was told to try to get the cat some food. Ford managed to capture the cat and bring it home. This was the first of about 50 pets Ford has fostered for Anthem Pets over the years. With a spare air-conditioned garage and a big soft spot for pets who sometimes get the short end of the stick, Ford is one of too few volunteers for Anthem Pets.
As soon as kitten season ended, the dog population spiked. In the past month, Anthem Pets has rescued six dogs from New River. “They’re such neat dogs,” said Anthem Pets board member Robin Mizerek. “One got adopted, and Dr. Ratke [of Academy West Animal Hospital] and Dr. Young [of Daisy Mountain Veterinary Hospital] were kind enough to help foster the others.” Mizerek said that new fosters are the greatest need for the non-profit group. Some volunteers have had to dial it back due to, say, a new job, while others are just overburdened. “We have a decreasing supply fosters, and an increase in the number of dogs coming into the system… we just need more fosters.”
Ford takes fostering seriously, striving to get to know the animals so she can help direct them to an appropriate forever home. “Some shouldn’t be around little kids, maybe they don’t like men…” Ford said. And she also tries to help rid the animals of any bad habits. “Each one is unique. There’s something about each one that you just have to love.”
To volunteer: email anthempets@yahoo.com or call 480-287-3542.
