Elizabeth started fostering for CARE in January 2023. She fosters cats and also has cats and dogs of her own. Her love of animals and the opportunity to help the community piqued her interested in becoming a foster caregiver. She knows from her own pets’ adoptions how important socialization is, and that having insight from the foster family into a pet’s personality and needs helps them make a good match with a forever home.

Did you have any concerns or hesitation before you began fostering, and if so, how has it played out for you?

We were worried about how hard it would be to say goodbye — and it is! It helps to see them go to wonderful homes that we have vetted and selected ourselves.

What kind of support do you receive from CARE?

CARE provides everything we need for our fosters’ care including food, toys, and medical expenses. Just as important, our foster mentor and the cat welfare committee are incredibly supportive and responsive, helping to answer questions, offer support, and think through any concerns we have for our foster kitties’ wellbeing.

What’s your favorite aspect about fostering? Why do you do it?

Kittens!!! It’s so much fun to watch them grow and thrive. It’s also really satisfying to know we’re giving these wonderful pets a great start in a happy life.

What advice would you give to someone considering foster caregiving?

We’re pretty new, so I feel like I’m still asking for advice more than giving it!

What’s your favorite story about one of your foster animals?

Watching our current babies take their first steps was pretty great!