Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear cozy sweaters, carry leashes, refill food bowls, and open their hearts – and homes – to animals in need.
These everyday champions are known as fosters.
June is National Foster a Pet Month, a perfect time to celebrate those who offer a second chance to animals who need a little extra TLC. It is said fostering is one of the most rewarding experiences a person can have. It provides pets with the love, patience, and socialization they need to become their best selves – and it gives people purpose, joy, and an irreplaceable bond.
Just ask Robert Thornton – he’ll tell you himself.
Robert splits his year between a senior living community in Wolfville and a peaceful cabin on Cape Breton’s Mira River. But no matter the season or location, one thing remains constant – his deep love for senior dogs.
At first glance, Robert might seem like your typical friendly neighbour – but get him talking about dogs, and you’ll quickly discover his heart is anything but ordinary.
A lifelong Nova Scotian, Robert grew up with a family dog, but it wasn’t until later in life that his journey with the Nova Scotia SPCA began. Over the years, he’s opened his heart and home to five dogs from the SPCA. The first two were playful puppies who stayed by his side for more than 15 years each. But as Robert got older, he started thinking about what kind of pet might suit his lifestyle best.
“Puppies are a lot of work,” Robert said with a chuckle. “So, I started pondering the idea of senior dogs – and when I did, I never looked back.”
It was the Nova Scotia SPCA who first suggested the idea of fostering. Robert was game to try – and that’s how he met Mr. Tiny, a golden-coloured Chihuahua mix who strutted through life with no canine teeth and a tongue that refused to stay inside his mouth. Playful, quirky, and full of personality, Mr. Tiny was supposed to be a temporary guest. Instead, he became family. 
“Fostering didn’t last long with Tiny,” Robert admitted. “I adopted him. He was just too special.”
After Mr. Tiny crossed the rainbow bridge, Robert looked for a new companion to fill the quiet void at home. Fostering “failed” again – in the best way possible – when Robert met Sophia, another senior Chihuahua with plenty of attitude packed into a tiny frame. Though, she just needed a quiet home and someone who’d accept her as she was.
“She was the tiniest, crankiest, and snarliest of dogs I knew – she was unpleasant, but I loved her anyway,” Robert said.
After a short fostering period, she too became a permanent resident in Robert’s life.
When Sophia passed, Robert’s home felt empty again. But the quiet didn’t last long. Enter Daisy, a sweet 10-year-old Chihuahua mix. The moment Robert met her at the shelter reception, he knew.
“Instantly – I’m not giving this dog back,” he laughed. “She’s the best dog ever. So obedient, so easy to get along with, and just a delight to have around.”
So why does he keep doing it?
For Robert, the answer is simple: companionship. “I live alone, so this is great company,” he shared. “No puppyhood. Little training. What you get is what you get – and it’s been very good so far.”
Senior dogs and senior humans – a perfect match.
Robert finds joy in the little things: a wagging tail at the door, a nudge for attention, or Daisy’s very vocal opinions on just about everything.
“They do talk back in their own way,” he said. “Daisy’s quite the conversationalist.”
Fostering isn’t for everyone, Robert will tell you. It takes patience, some courage, and a whole lot of heart. But the Nova Scotia SPCA helps every step of the way – covering costs and matching each animal with the right home.
“It’s rewarding for sure,” he said. “Even at my age, I was nervous at first, but I still did it. And I love the rewards from it.”
He added jokingly, “It also keeps me busy. I need to get up, even in snow or rain – it forces me to get out.”
This June, during National Foster a Pet Month, Robert hopes his story might inspire others to give fostering a try. Whether it’s a temporary visit or a forever bond, opening your home to a furry friend can be life-changing – for both of you.
As for Robert? He’ll be soaking up the Cape Breton sun this summer, with Daisy by his side, sharing stories, snacks, and maybe the occasional nap.
Thinking about fostering?
Ready to be a hero like Robert? Learn more and apply today at novascotiaspca.ca/foster.
What To Expect
- First time foster parents receive training and our friendly Foster Team is just a phone call away
- We provide all supplies (food, bedding, medical care + more) to help your foster(s) have a comfortable stay in your home
- The average length of stay is 3-6 weeks for cats and 6 weeks for dogs
What We Need
- Must be over 18 years of age
- Your own animals need to be up to date with their vaccinations
- Need to have consent from your landlord (if you rent) and support from all household members
- Must have time each day to care for your fosters. The time needed depends on the situation and we can customize to what works best for your lifestyle and schedule
- Must have a room (as simple as a bathroom) to isolate the foster(s) cats and critters from other pets. This is not needed for the majority of foster dogs
- Need reliable access to transportation for picking up/dropping off fosters and visits to our vet or shelter for supplies
Like Robert says – it could be the beginning of something beautiful.