Vince’s story is a cautionary tale of what can happen when cats are given away for free on the internet … and the healing power of a loving foster home.
This sweet boy came to Kitty Kat Haven & Rescue as a surrendered stray. Even with a microchip, we were unable to return him to an owner who wanted him. Adopted from a local humane society, rehomed for free over the internet, and found wandering the streets homeless and alone; this sweet 2 year old boy was understandably shut down and hiding at our sanctuary. Here begins the origin story of Vince’s own personal hero: Joshua.
“For my 40th birthday I decided I wanted to find a charity or a worthwhile cause I could be a part of. I also realized I was kinda lonely living completely alone for the first time in about 15 years, so I started looking into foster programs. I work quite a bit, so I decided it would be better to foster a cat rather than a dog and I started looking into local foster programs. I came across KKHR, where it seemed like the team were all in on making sure the cats were all taken care of really well. That was my biggest draw.
I submitted my application and heard back from the foster coordinator later that week. We discussed my lifestyle and mutually decided it would probably be best if I fostered an adult rather than a kitten or teen just because of the time I spend away from home. I also really wanted to foster an adult because they’re so often overlooked! She suggested Vince would be a good fit for me since he would be in a single animal home and he gets very stressed around other cats. I went a few days later and picked him up.
Since I brought Vince home he’s been the highlight of my day, every day. I’m excited to come home and spend time with him! He’s been so laid back and sweet since day one. He sleeps next to me every night and follows me around everywhere I go. He’s almost always within eye shot of me these days.
Fostering Vince also helped me realize how much I missed having a pet around. I struggle with severe anxiety regularly and having him around has also impacted my anxiety so positively my doctor suggested I look into an emotional support animal.
The KKHR foster team really cares and have continued to be responsive and helpful. Fostering has been far more rewarding than I ever expected it to be!”
To us, and especially to Vince, Joshua is the best kind of hero – a compassionate one whose quiet kindness brings out the best in those he cares for.
We are so lucky to have Joshua on our team. He reminded us how the culture of our organization permeates every aspect of our work and how even seemingly separate activities are critical to the attraction and retention of fosters. When asked why he chose KKHR over other rescues, Joshua responded: “I really paid attention to the facility and how everyone else was acting. When I arrived there were several people cleaning in every room of the building. It was obvious the team was focused on keeping the facility clean for the cats so they remained healthy. Vince was actually in the cabin in the back so I went back there as well and observed that it was also clean and well kept. I find that when there’s care involved, keeping the location clean shows a deep level of care, especially for animals. Cleanliness is often the first standard I’ve noticed isn’t met when there isn’t pride or care taken with a job or a task.”
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.