Fostering Saves Lives: Coachella Valley's Call for Animal Shelter Volunteers

As the summer months approach and many in the community travel, local animal shelters are struggling to keep up with the demand for volunteers and foster families. NBC Palm Springs’ Caitlyn Kelley reports on the urgent need for support and highlights one dog’s story of rescue.

This is Bear, an 18-month-old cattle dog surrendered to a local animal shelter after his owners lost their home. With the shelters overcrowded and Bear at risk of euthanasia, Aaron Highland stepped in. Thanks to Aaron, Bear is now safe in a foster home and awaiting his forever family.

Aaron has fostered over 80 dogs, giving them a second chance at life. “Everything is provided,” she explained. “Their food, supplies, leashes, pee pads for training—there’s no cost to foster.” Even a short-term commitment of a few weeks can make a big difference, providing new photos and bios to increase a pet’s chance of adoption.

In addition to fostering, community members can help by ensuring pets are microchipped—a vital step to reunite lost pets with their owners. Many free microchipping opportunities are available in the Coachella Valley. Donating to local pet food pantries is another way to support, ensuring pet owners don’t have to choose between feeding their families or their pets.

Thanks to dedicated volunteers like Aaron, Bear is one of the lucky ones. Whether fostering, walking a shelter animal, or simply spreading the word, your help can save lives. Caitlyn Kelley urges, “If you have room in your heart to foster or even just take 15 minutes to walk a shelter pet, do it. You’ll be making a difference.”

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