I’ve recently had the good fortune of becoming a foster parent for AlleyCATS Alliance, a local animal rescue society. It’s given me the joy of caring for orphaned kittens and rescued older cats, many of whom were abandoned for reasons I can’t begin to understand.
Because I’m committed to responsible pet ownership, I have always spayed or neutered my own animals. Consequently, I haven’t had the joy of rambunctious, carefree kittens gambolling about the house only to fall asleep in my lap, all tuckered out! I’ve also fostered some very sweet, adult cats who were left behind when their families moved away. Every one of them was clearly happy to be safe, warm and well fed once again.
The best part is that AlleyCATS Alliance maintains full responsibility for all of the kitties. They provide everything foster families need from food and litter to scratch posts and vet care. When they’re ready, AlleyCATS has every one spayed or neutered, vaccinated and so on and then they arrange for adoptions into forever homes. All a foster family really needs to do is enjoy them!
If you love animals but aren’t interested in a lifetime commitment or perhaps you like to travel, or whatever your circumstance, fostering may be for you. I’ve heard the AlleyCATS directors say that they could help more animals if only there were more foster homes. I recommend it wholeheartedly!
Taylore Forrest, Summerland
