There are so many wonderful reasons to foster a shelter pet. Not only does fostering help the animal who gets to leave the shelter, but it also makes room for the shelter to rescue an additional pet. The cherries on top are all the joyful and rewarding moments foster parents share with their new four-legged friends!
Dog mom Jen began fostering shelter dogs from the Seattle Humane Society after her soul dog, Maggie, passed away from cancer in August 2025. Since then, she’s helped foster dogs like Toby find their confidence and curiosity with lots of unconditional love. On February 16, only two days after bringing Toby home, she shared the adorable moment when he began demanding pets in the most irresistible way.
What a charmer! Toby is a big love bug who knows exactly what he wants, and he isn’t afraid to ask for it. Considering it’s only been a few days since this foster dog left the shelter, he must be feeling so safe and loved with Jen around!
“2 days?” commenter @spitfire_sandy17 asked. “Oh, honey, you have such a pure heart, and that baby can feel it. Thank you for saving this sweet, deserving soul.”
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It’s safe to say that Toby is grateful, too. Dogs only roll onto their backs when feeling safe and secure, but this rescue dog took it one step further by demanding to be pet. How could anyone say no to that?
Most of Toby’s new fans were too enamored with the affectionate pup to realize what he was doing, but @tinkbad13 noticed his ulterior motive. “He’s training you,” the commenter joked. “You’re learning quick!”
Fostering Shelter Dogs
Jen and Toby’s sweet moments are perfect examples of what a little love and time can do for a foster dog, but it’s important to remember that no two pups are the same. Some fosters, like Toby, will warm up to their new friends instantly, but others need more time to adjust.
Animal adoption advocates recommend pet parents follow the 3-3-3 rule when bringing home a foster or rescue dog. This guideline explains how long it can take for a new dog to reach certain milestones in their new home, but it’s always important to remember that every individual pup is on their own timeline. Some need weeks, even months, to show their true colors, while others, like Toby, only need a day or two!
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This story was originally published by PetHelpful on Feb 19, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.