Finding Forever: Geraldine’s Foster-to-Adopt Journey with Segundo
Finding Forever: Geraldine’s Foster-to-Adopt Journey with Segundo
At Cincinnati Animal CARE, we believe in finding the best possible homes for our animals, and sometimes, that means giving adopters a chance to test the waters through our Foster-to-Adopt program. This option allows potential adopters to bring a pet into their home on a trial basis before making a lifelong commitment. It’s a win-win situation—pets get a loving environment while adopters ensure the new addition fits their lifestyle.
For Geraldine, this program made all the difference in bringing Segundo (formerly Sir Bua Eddington) into her life.
Why Foster-to-Adopt Was the Right Choice
Geraldine had a long history of fostering. Since adopting her first rescue, Serena, in 2003, she had fostered over 50 dogs. While she had loved many of them, three dogs felt like a big commitment. But then she saw Sir Bua Eddington’s lost and found post and was immediately smitten.
After following his progress in another foster home and receiving glowing updates, Geraldine knew she wanted to meet him—but she also knew she needed time to make sure it was the right decision. That’s where Foster-to-Adopt came in.
“I decided to pick him up with the intention that he stay forever, but I needed to make sure,” she recalls.
When Segundo met her other dogs, there were a few initial squabbles, but within days, everything settled. Geraldine filled out the paperwork two days early—her decision was clear. Segundo was home.
Life with Segundo
Now officially part of the family, Segundo has seamlessly integrated into Geraldine’s home.
“He follows his big sister around like a little puppy,” she shares. “I joke that I got my dog, a dog, but I believe there’s some truth in that.”
Serena has taken him under her wing, cleaning his ears, sunbathing with him, and serving as part of the welcoming committee for new fosters. Meanwhile, Santiago, the family’s resident “spicy” pup, simply pretends Segundo doesn’t exist—meaning everything works out just fine!
Why Foster-to-Adopt Works
Looking back, Geraldine believes she wouldn’t have adopted Segundo if she hadn’t fostered him first.
“The pressure would have been too much,” she admits. “I run my own dog care business, so I always have dogs coming in and out. Two was a big deal for me, and three never crossed my mind. Foster-to-adopt opened up a different door for us.”
This program gave her the time and space to make an informed decision without the weight of an immediate commitment.
Advice for Potential Adopters
For those unsure about fostering to adopt, Geraldine’s advice is simple:
“Do it. Seriously, do it.”
She emphasizes that fostering allows families to assess a dog’s energy level, temperament, potty training, crate habits, and ability to coexist with other pets—all crucial factors in ensuring a successful adoption.
And when it comes to shelter dogs?
“They are everything,” she says. “My eleven-year-old doodle is from a breeder. He’s my heart, but I will never support another breeder again. There are so many beautiful, loving, deserving dogs just desperately waiting to meet you. It brings me so much joy to fill their lives with endless happiness and love.”
Thinking About Fostering or Adopting?
If you’re on the fence about adopting, fostering can be a great first step. Cincinnati Animal CARE’s Foster-to-Adopt program provides a no-pressure opportunity to find your perfect match—just like Geraldine and Segundo did!
