PAWS Pet of the Week: Be a PAWS Foster Hero

Protection of Animals in Wakefield Society, Inc. (PAWS) fosters and adopts out hundreds of cats annually with the help of our volunteer network.  Summer is traditionally a busy time, with pregnant moms, newborn kittens, and current pet owners needing to re-home their pets. Since we are a foster network, without a physical shelter, the number of pets we can help is limited by the number of foster homes we have available at any given time.  This year, our cat intake requests are even greater than usual.  As a result, PAWS is seeking new foster volunteers to help care for local moms with litters and adult cats that are in need of a temporary housing while we find them permanent homes.    

Here are five reasons why you might want to consider becoming a PAWS Foster Super Hero:

1.  Fostering saves lives.  It is summer and the living is not easy for cats being abandoned and surrendered.  Animals on their own outside are especially vulnerable to summer’s extreme weather conditions.  If we do not have enough homes to help the many rescued or surrendered cats, we cannot take them in.  This means some pets may not survive either outside or in an overcrowded shelter.

2.  Fostering is fun.  Kittens can be a lot of fun.  It is heartwarming to watch them interact with their mom, their littermates and their human foster family.  Young adults often just act like big kittens and can be just as much fun to play with.  And, older adults can melt your heart as they cuddle near you to show their appreciation for your kindness.  Like people, each cat has its own unique personality.  It is amazing to see how quickly he or she can adapt to you and your household. 

3.  Fostering does not take much space.  All you need is an office, bathroom or quiet corner for a large freestanding cage.  Remember the alternative for these cats is a small cage in a shelter or worse.  The cats will be grateful for whatever space you provide 

4.  Fostering means freedom from vet bills.  PAWS pays for the foster cat’s veterinary care including vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and any other medical needs. PAWS provides all the training, equipment and help you need.  All you provide is food, litter, and love.  The money you spend on food and litter is tax deductable, so keep the receipts. 

5.  Fostering is good for the cats.  Foster cats are exposed to less stress and fewer illnesses than cats in shelters.  As a foster parent, you play a crucial role in learning about the specific needs and personalities of your foster pets.  This knowledge helps PAWS find the perfect permanent home for our pets.  Sure, you may shed a few tears when it is time to transfer your foster to a forever home, but you will have the satisfaction of knowing that the match is a good one and that you are bringing joy to both the cat and the cat’s new family.  Besides, there is always another cat waiting who could use your help! 

Fostering is a great volunteer opportunity for singles, couples or families with children. It is a wonderful and rewarding way to help your community and homeless animals.  Your acts of kindness will be repaid many times over with the satisfaction of knowing you have saved lives and with the ultimate joy of bringing happiness to others.  If you are interested in learning more about fostering cats, contact PAWS at 718-246-6111 or pawswakefield@yahoo.com.