Meet Skylar: The 9-Year-Old Making a Big Difference
At Muddy Paws Rescue, we celebrate every volunteer who dedicates their time and heart to helping animals in need. But every now and then, someone truly extraordinary comes along and inspires us all. Meet Skylar, a 9-year-old fostering superstar whose energy, compassion, and love for animals are making a huge impact.
Skylar may be young, but she’s already a pro when it comes to fostering and volunteering. Whether she’s teaching a shy pup new tricks or remembering every foster dog’s name, Skylar approaches every task with enthusiasm and heart. Alongside her mom, she fosters dogs in need and brings smiles to everyone she meets at adoption events.
We sat down with Skylar to learn more about her journey, her favorite moments, and why she believes anyone can make a difference—no matter their age.
Skyler cuddling with Cindy Lou Who.
Q: How did you and your mom first start helping with Muddy Paws Rescue? Do you remember the first dog you ever fostered?
We started helping Muddy Paws Rescue by fostering. Our first foster was Uno. Her name was so special because Uno means number one in Spanish. If it weren't for Uno, we wouldn’t have all the amazing fosters after her. This is only the beginning.
Q: What do you love most about dogs?
What I love most about dogs is their different personalities; they are the best cuddlers, and they make me so happy. They are small, big, fluffy, playful… I love everything about them.
Q: Is there a dog you’ve fostered or met that’s your all-time favorite? What made them so special?
It’s hard because all of my fosters have been great. But if I were to pick, it would be Cindy Lou Who. Her name is so cool and is from my favorite holiday movie, The Grinch. She had these tiny little legs that were so cute. She was calm, loved to cuddle with me, and every time I looked at her, she gave me the cutest, biggest smile.
Q: What’s a normal day like when you’re fostering a dog? Do they follow you around, or do you have a special routine?
In the mornings, we take our foster dog out to go potty, walk, or jog around the park. Then, we come home and eat breakfast. After school, we go potty, play fetch outside, and walk around the neighborhood. Then, we eat dinner and cuddle together until it’s bedtime.
Q: Some dogs are nervous or shy when they meet new people. What’s your advice for helping them feel safe and happy?
Give them space, have treats around, and let them come to you when they are ready so they don’t feel like you’re hovering over them.
Q: What would you tell someone who thinks fostering might be too hard? How can they make it fun and exciting?
Take a deep breath, everything will be fine. Take it one day at a time, enjoy getting to know your dog, and routine is key! Give them space, a comfy bed, food, and water, and they will come to you when they feel safe. Be ready for all the love that will come your way.
Q: Why do you think kids can be really good at helping dogs? What special things do kids bring to fostering and volunteering?
Dogs are like kids. They are playful and want love and attention, so who’s better than us kids to understand them? Also, they remind us not to take life so seriously, to be silly, and to laugh through things.
Q: If you could make one magical wish for all the dogs you help, what would it be?
My only wish would be for all the dogs to have a safe and loving home that respects and cares for them every day. I just want the best for them. They deserve it.
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Skylar’s story is a reminder that making a difference doesn’t have an age requirement. Her dedication to Muddy Paws Rescue and the dogs she fosters has inspired everyone who knows her. From her playful energy at adoption events to her patience in training scared or shy pups, Skylar shows us that compassion and hard work can change lives—both for the dogs and the people around them.
Skylar, we’re so proud to have you in the Muddy Paws family. You’re proof that anyone can make the world a better place for animals in need, one wagging tail at a time!
Join us in celebrating Skylar! Be sure to follow along on our website and Instagram (@MuddyPawsRescueNYC) to see Skylar’s story, meet more inspiring volunteers, and learn how you can get involved.