Spring has sprung and kitty season is starting up with a vengeance. As I write this, Judy already fell for an abandoned kitty story and took in two little 4-week old kittens (just two so far). Just as we even think about it, they appear on our doorstep – must be karma. If you haven’t had a chance to get a warm fuzzy baby kitten fix, check out this picture of the “stubbular stage” (and read how people dissolve into baby talk). http://cuteoverload.com/2009/01/18/rule-of-cutenes/

Lately I’ve seen so many emails pleading for help with overflowing shelters – it is just so sad. Especially for the babies who haven’t even had a chance to know anything outside a cage. But then what about those senior citizens who get booted out without a look back and are so confused and frightened at the shelter? We only have so many foster homes and openings to take them in – the same boat as every other rescue operation. We could save more if we had more foster homes – perhaps you would consider this if you are reading this. Foster homes are so important for the puppy or kitten/dog or cat because the experience makes them more adoptable. They are happier and healthier and are more inclined to be housebroken and a bit more “settled” because they haven’t been cooped up in a cage. People tell us all the time that they don’t know how we can foster so many and not want to keep them all – well, if you can see all the emails and the happy faces of those who just adopted one of your “special fosters”, it is just so worth it. Plus the puppy kisses! The short term nature of fostering also can suit your lifestyle especially if they are little ones that only require your love and regular meals and perhaps a lesson in housebreaking. Also if you have two legged little ones, it can be a great educational experience as well as a social one. Children need to be taught early to contribute to the community in a positive way so they can be great adults. (We have three teens that help us out regularly at Pet Smart who all want to be vets but volunteering is a blog entry for another day.) Please consider fostering for us or another rescue group – we promise that you will be hooked just like we are and you can really make a difference for one little dog or cat.