Dana Fine and Steven Blitzstein knew they’d be home all the time the moment the pandemic broke out. It was a stressful time for everyone, after all. So to help ease their anxiety, they decided to foster so they reached out to the Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter in Illinois.
It was great timing because the rescue group had two 7-week-old puppies that urgently needed fosters. They’d be perfect playmates for their daughter Betty, the couple agreed. So without second thoughts, they said yes and welcomed the pups into their home.
Betty loved Hansel and Gretel from the moment she met them. Even Dana adored the puppies a lot. But Steven was the one that formed an extraordinary bond with them. He valued them a great deal and they were obsessed with him.
Hansel and Gretel brought so much joy to their foster family. They calmed their nerves down despite driving them nuts at times. They were perfect no matter how much trouble they caused.
The couple was supposed to foster the sibs for two weeks but they’ve fallen deeply in love with them so they let them stay a little bit longer. They spoiled the puppies and gave them everything they wanted. Steven even woke up at 5 a.m. just to give them Kongs.
Dana and Steven knew the puppies would eventually leave once they find their new families. And before they knew it, it was time for Hansel to go. They were fine, but they couldn’t deny that it left a hole in their hearts.
It was hard for the family to see Hansel go. While they knew a full life awaited for the puppy in his new home, they still shed a tear when he left. And so, they decided to let Gretel stay.
Adopting Gretel was one of the greatest decisions Dana and Steven have made. She gave them so much happiness during a tough time. She’s an inspiration, that’s why she stayed.
Credits to Instagram@Raven Gretel