2009.05.27
Lots of need for foster families
The cup runneth over at the Roanoke Valley SPCA with too many puppies and kittens.
I get periodic e-mails when the no-kill shelter is looking for foster homes, usually for babies that need to gain weight and get old enough to have their sterilization surgery before they can find a forever home.
The one I got today was filled with cute faces that need a little help in life. Included was a litter of fluffy pups, one pictured here, from Lee County that would not have any chance to grow up if the RVSPCA did not open the door to them.
Another puppy in need of fostering was turned in by a young boy because his mother could not overcome her fear of dogs. The boy knew the pup deserved a home where the dog could be inside the house and loved by an entire family.
And there are always kittens, some with moms, some alone, that need a place to grow and fatten up until they are big enough and old enough to find their own families.
If you can take in a wee one for a short time, usually just a week or two, please reach out to Anne Marie Sweeney at the RVSPCA. There are so many adoptable babies that just need someone to love, feed and socialize them so they can have a chance at a good life.
My little Stormy is a former foster pup, and I will be forever grateful that a kind-hearted person gave him the headstart he needed to be a great dog.
I'm sure it takes a very special person to foster pets (and children) then give them up to a forever home. I have a friend in NC that fosters baby kittens and bottle feeds them. She does dog and turtle rescues too but mostly its the kittens. She has a BIG HEART! She is a veterinary assistant and has a hubby in the Army. They are great people.
Also, I received an email today from Ms. Nelson awarding me The Cat's Pajamas from the trio of books she had to give away. I am tickled pink to get that. Better than winning the lottery. (well, maybe...lol)
Thanks so much, Nona!
Comment by Debi — May 27, 2009 @ 8:12 pm
It does appear at the outset that fostering baby puppies and kittens would be tough but, in reality, it is a wonderful experience for the humans as well as the little ones. Other than a lack of sleep at the beginning because of their scheduled feedings, they are usually absolutely no trouble and the rewards are great. Not only do they have the nutrition that they need, but also they become much more socialized and friendly to humans than they might be otherwise. Go for it!
Comment by Ellen — May 30, 2009 @ 8:58 am
I have had the pleasure of fostering 11 dogs for and it is a very rewarding experience. I encourage everyone to consider taking an animal in need into their home. A perfectly healthy dog or cat is killed every 40 seconds in out country due to lack of a home. 25% of animals in shelters are purebreds. So please, foster a dog or cat and adopt, don't shop!! Thank you for publicizing this need in out communities.
Comment by martha — June 1, 2009 @ 5:00 pm