Fostering has taught me how big the problem is and how much fosters and volunteers are really needed.
What inspired you to foster for KKHR?
I had lost my first pet- my cat, Tonto. He was my snuggly purr monster. Since I wasn’t ready to adopt, Tonto came from a rescue (and my other cat, Hershey), so I thought I would apply to foster in his honor.
What do you love about being a foster?
You get to constantly have this lovely kitten energy in your life. You get all the firsts- their first purrs, their first snuggles and the first wins- whether it’s litter box training, earning their trust or just seeing them play. It’s so fun getting to learn each of their personalities. Everyone thought I would immediately “foster fail” (adopt my foster)foster fail. It was hard- but it was so satisfying seeing my first kittens adopted. I jumped right back into my next batch.
What has fostering taught you?
How BIG the problem is because people don’t spay/neuter their cats. How MUCH fosters and just volunteers are really needed to help.
When things get difficult, what keeps you going?
That no matter what- these kittens are going to know love. It can be bittersweet handing over a kitten that you have helped flourish to someone else to love. However, I know each time I do that the next kitten that needs me is (unfortunately) just a day or two away from being at KKHR.
How has fostering changed your life?
It’s brought laughter and joy to my life. It’s definitely a bit more chaotic sometimes, and probably messier (oh the cleaning!). It’s really opened my eyes to how dedicated people who run rescues have to be. It’s a whole different world and commitment. It’s every emotion- joy to heartbreak, frustration to elation.
Ready to make an impact?
Foster: Fostering a kitten, teenager, or adult cat can be one of the most rewarding things you ever do.
Volunteer: Lend a helping hand at a local shelter or rescue organization.
Adopt: Open your heart and home to a furry friend in need.