At STARelief, we understand that very often, emergency animal fostering services are needed. Because fostering pets for people in crisis is just one of our commitments to the community we serve, here’s the touching story of Ernie, a one and one-half year old Pit Bull who needed help—fast!

Ernie belongs to a woman facing a horrid situation that we all hear too much about—spousal abuse. STARelief was able to step in and offer Ernie safe harbor while his owner and her three children found their own protection in a domestic violence shelter.

Ernie’s family had a tough decision to make and, while they found a safe place to stay, unfortunately the domestic abuse shelter couldn’t take this adorable Pit Bull. With no other option, Ernie’s owner left the animal with her abusive spouse.

Afraid the abuser would take out his frustrations on poor Ernie, Ernie’s owner contacted her caseworker and told her the story. STARelief was contacted and stepped in to find a foster home for Ernie.

Today, we are happy to say that Ernie has been reunited with his family!  While Ernie’s family got the help they needed to ensure their safety, Ernie was placed with one of our volunteers who offered foster care. Our free emergency boarding/foster care program was setup for purposes just like the one Ernie had to endure.