A Foster’s Fondness: An Instant Connection
Carlyn Foreman, a foster volunteer from New York, has always had a deep affection for dogs. However, no dog had ever quite captured her heart in the way that Norman did.
Foreman had been a dedicated volunteer with Waldo’s Rescue Pen for several months when she came across a photo of this sweet Pitbull mix at a shelter in Georgia. He looked desperate to escape the confines of his kennel – and she felt an overwhelming urge to give him a comforting hug.
The only obstacle was Carlyn’s demanding schedule, which didn’t allow her to commit to fostering any dog on a long-term basis. To help Norman, she agreed to foster him for just one night. But, as fate would have it, that plan proved to be utterly impossible!
A Fleeting Favor: The One-Night Foster That Changed Everything
Carlyn’s heart ached the moment she saw the photo of Norman at the Georgia shelter.
As a volunteer with Waldo’s Rescue Pen in New York, she knew that the pup had a promising chance of being transferred to a foster home. The only hitch was that the volunteer who had initially agreed to foster him was unable to do so, even for a single night – and Carlyn immediately stepped up to fill the void.
She couldn’t bear the thought of Norman losing the opportunity for a new life simply due to logistical challenges.
“As of 11 PM the night before transport, he didn’t have a foster and was at risk of staying in Georgia,” Carlyn shared in an Instagram video, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
So, after a grueling 20-hour van ride to New York, Norman finally arrived at her home.
The pair took an Uber home, and just two short hours later, Carlyn found herself completely and irrevocably in love with Norman. His remarkably easy-going nature and affectionate personality were truly exceptional. No dog had ever captivated Carlyn in the way that Norman did.
And that’s when she realized she simply couldn’t bear to part with him. Instead of a one-night stay, she switched to becoming his permanent foster!
“He got off the 20hr van ride with a wagging tail and the biggest smile. At 9AM we Ubered home, and by 11AM I knew I couldn’t let him go, so I switched to being his full-time foster,” she explained, highlighting the speed and intensity of her connection with Norman.
A New Life: Embracing Freedom and Affection
Norman’s life underwent a complete and profound transformation. He was no longer a shelter dog, but a cherished foster pup who embraced his newfound freedom and comfort with open paws. He was genuinely sweet, gentle, and remarkably laid-back. He spent most of his time sleeping peacefully, both during the day and at night, making him an incredibly easy dog to care for.
His only bursts of energy occurred when he was around other dogs, showcasing his playful and social side. He was sweet, friendly, and adored human company – and he charmed every single pet in Carlyn’s family, earning him “bonus points” in her eyes!
His incredible ability to adapt to his new life and the overwhelming affection he showed his foster mom only deepened Carlyn’s love for him, ultimately leading to an inevitable decision…
From Temporary to Forever: A Heartfelt Adoption
Carlyn definitely hadn’t planned on keeping Norman forever. But, as it often happens, love has a way of changing everything!
After fostering this exceptional pup for a few weeks, she made the heartwarming decision to make it official and welcome Norman as a full-fledged member of her family.
“I didn’t plan to adopt, but sometimes you just can’t say goodbye. Welcome home, Normy,” Carlyn joyfully announced.
Today, Norman enjoys a completely transformed life. He’s no longer confined to a small, sterile space and doesn’t face an uncertain future. Now, he has everything – and so much more!
He makes new friends, relishes cuddles with his mom and other humans, takes cozy naps on the most comfortable couch imaginable, and enjoys breathtaking sunsets with Carlyn in Central Park.
It truly doesn’t get any better than that!
