A heart for every dog: Dekota’s foster story

In leafy Mt Nelson, Tasmania, Dekota Mark has opened her home and her heart to some of CANA member Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania’s most vulnerable dogs. Although she only began fostering 11 months ago, she has quickly become an invaluable part of the organisation’s foster network.

Dekota says she was inspired to foster because she’s always had dogs growing up and had been tempted to foster for some time.  Working and studying from home made it the perfect moment to take the leap.

“I thought it would be a great opportunity to donate some of my time and provide a warm home to lovely dogs who need care before finding their forever families,” she says.

Dekota and her housemates cared for a range of dogs with varying needs.

“Our first foster was completely deaf, all white and prone to sunburn. We’ve cared for a pup recovering from a leg amputation, a 14-year-old ex-farm dog and even some tiny puppies,” she says.

They take on both short-term and long-term care, with some dogs staying just a weekend and others for months.

“Saying goodbye is always bittersweet,” she admits.

Despite the emotional moments, fostering enriches Dekota’s life in countless ways.

“Each dog has such a unique personality, and I love a dog with a little pizzazz, a bit of mischief to keep me on my toes!” she laughs. “Fostering helps me understand life in a deeper way. Just like humans, dogs have quirks and challenges, but with love and consistency, they slowly become comfortable and confident in themselves.”

One of her most memorable fosters was Mal, her first Greyhound.

“He was such a lovely dog, gentle and relaxed, happy to spend time near us while doing his own thing,” she recalls. “He had moments of pure goofiness, and my heart melted when he nestled his chest into me during a hug. We knew Mal would be a wonderful addition to our home, even if just for a short while.”

When he found his new home, the celebration was shared far and wide.

“Seeing the excitement and support from the foster community when he finally went home was amazing!” she adds.

Before starting, Dekota had her own assumptions about fostering.

“I think there’s a misconception that foster dogs are all ‘hard cases’ or less lovable than purebred dogs from breeders,” she says.

Instead, she discovered dogs who were “so sweet and ready to be loved.” Some needed more support than others, but they all showed incredible progress when given the chance to thrive.

“My housemates and I still talk about every single dog and their quirks. Sometimes I think we talk about them like they’re our own kids!” she says.

For anyone curious about fostering, Dekota has a clear message: the need is great and the impact is enormous.

“So many dogs come through the Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania often with little background information,” she explains. “Having them in a home helps us learn about their personalities so they can be matched with the perfect family, giving them a better chance for the rest of their journey. It’s great for the dogs, but honestly, it’s just as rewarding for foster carers.”

She also treasures the community that surrounds fostering.

“We swoon over the silly and adorable things the dogs do,” she says. “Each one has brought us laughter, fun, and joy.”