MusicCityNashville.net: Music City Animal Rescue Seeks New Fosters and Volunteers as Second Decade of Regional Service Begins in Nashville

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Music City Animal Rescue Seeks New Fosters and Volunteers as Second Decade of Regional Service Begins in Nashville

by Rich and Laura Lynch

Music City Animal Rescue (MCAR) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that rescues abandoned, abused or neglected animals in and around the Middle Tennessee area. They are a network of devoted animal lovers who foster pets in their homes until they can find their forever families. In addition to placing cats and dogs they help other critters such as goats and rabbits. When an animal enters their program it becomes part of the MCAR family to be socialized. All animals adopted through MCAR will be altered prior to adoption as well as fully vetted.

Music City Animal Rescue Seeks New Fosters and Volunteers as Second Decade of Regional Service Begins in Nashville

Lara Germony and MCAR Director Vickie Harris in Hermitage.

Last fall, we found ourselves at a joyous celebration marking the organization's first ten years of service in Nashville. But, it was back to work for everyone when we attended an MCAR meeting at the Hermitage Library on February 04, 2024 to learn more about fostering. Author Lara Germony was their guest speaker. Lara runs the "Doodlebug Manor" animal rescue in Murfreesboro and she published her book Divine Felines a little over a year ago that documents many of the supernatural occurrences that she has experienced while helping many animals - especially cats - extend their lives and opportunities.

Germony also shared many helpful tips for those who are considering becoming a foster. First - she advised to find a solid group that has a process. In response to that statement, MCAR Founder and Director Vickie Harris handed out an outline of their requirements and mentioned that they have a procedure book, plus comprehensive information for interested volunteers on their website.

Second, like most things in life - Lara emphasized the importance of clear communication and explained that potential foster care providers should understand an organization's vison and rules before jumping in. Also, know what tools will be provided. For example, MCAR generally gives fosters supplies and helps with medical expenses.

Third, it is good to have a mentor. MCAR has Team Coordinators for cats and dogs who are there to facility adoptions/fostering, answer questions and assist during an emergency. Vickie also does her best to be available 24/7.

Other important things to think about are: Time - can you give what is needed to help an animal acclimate. Remember that rescue is a community. Groups should be helping one another as the main goal is to find homes for foster pets. Attachment - learning how to let go maybe the hardest part as you are likely to form a strong bond but remember that it is a privilege to prepare a pet for a loving home. Every animal saved is special and you can make a difference one cat or dog at a time. However, on Sunday we met a number of very loving volunteers who provide homes for multiple animals. So, it really depends on your expereince, ability and availability that will dictate how many fosters you can help at one time.

Since MCAR is a foster-based home network events are an important part of their work. Currently, PETCO and Pet Smart regularly host adoption events. Other businesses also support MCAR. Total Wine is sponsoring Wine & Whiskers on February 17, 2024 from 10 am - 2 pm at the Total Wine Place Shopping Center (Franklin Road #306C) in Brentwood, Tennessee. Animals, goodies and wine will be part of the festivities. MCAR can always use volunteers to assist with social media, events, transport and if you are able - FOSTERING. Financial support is also always appreciated.