What's Happening?
A Tempe, Arizona, woman, Liz Schidler, who fostered dogs for nearly five years, was severely attacked by a foster dog named Benny, which she had saved from euthanasia. The incident occurred on July 8 in her backyard when Benny attacked another dog before
turning on Schidler. She sustained serious injuries, including an artery tear in her left arm, resulting in the loss of three units of blood and requiring emergency surgery. Schidler was hospitalized for four days and, months later, is still unable to use her arms. Benny, a stray, was placed on a euthanasia list by Maricopa County Animal Care and Control due to medical concerns but was transferred to a New Hope partner, Desert Dog Project, which Schidler worked with. The county stated that Benny did not exhibit concerning behavioral signs prior to the attack. Schidler is sharing her story to warn other foster volunteers about the risks and the importance of asking questions and being prepared.
Why It's Important?
This incident highlights the significant risks and challenges associated with animal fostering and rescue efforts in the U.S., particularly when dealing with animals with unknown histories or behavioral issues. While fostering is crucial for saving animals from euthanasia and providing them with temporary homes, this case underscores the potential for severe injury to foster parents. It brings to light the need for comprehensive behavioral assessments of rescue animals, transparent communication about an animal's history, and adequate support and training for foster volunteers. For animal rescue organizations, this event could prompt a review of their screening processes for both animals and foster homes, as well as their emergency response protocols. It also raises public awareness about the realities of animal rescue, balancing the compassionate act of saving lives with the inherent dangers that can sometimes arise, impacting the safety of volunteers and the public.
What's Next?
Liz Schidler faces a long recovery period, as she is still unable to use her arms and is relying on a friend for daily assistance. A GoFundMe page has been created to help with her medical expenses. Her decision to share her story is intended to educate and caution other foster volunteers, encouraging them to be more vigilant and prepared for potential risks. This incident may lead to increased scrutiny of animal rescue organizations' practices, potentially prompting them to enhance their behavioral evaluation processes, provide more thorough training for foster parents, and ensure better support systems are in place. It could also spark discussions within the animal welfare community about how to balance the urgent need to save animals with ensuring the safety of volunteers and the public.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate tragedy, this story delves into the ethical complexities of animal rescue and the emotional toll it can take on volunteers. Schidler's statement, "We forget our boundaries when we think with our heart," encapsulates the profound dedication and sometimes self-sacrificing nature of foster parents. This incident raises questions about the responsibility of rescue organizations to fully disclose an animal's history and potential risks, and the psychological impact on volunteers who experience such traumatic events. It also highlights the broader societal challenge of managing animal populations and ensuring the safety of both humans and animals. The case could influence legal precedents regarding liability in animal fostering, potentially leading to changes in contracts or insurance requirements for rescue groups and foster families. Ultimately, it serves as a stark reminder that while animal rescue is a noble endeavor, it is not without its inherent dangers and requires careful consideration and robust safety measures.
