Temporary homes for adult cats and dogs needed to ease burden on New York shelters.
By Stacy N. Hackett
Posted: July 19, 2008 2 a.m. EDT
Pet lovers that enjoy the company of cats and dogs but can’t commit to adopting a pet are encouraged to provide foster homes for adult cats and senior dogs as part of the ASPCA’s annual “Kitty Camp” and “Golden Oldies” summer foster programs. The programs provide temporary homes for pets in need while giving pet lovers a chance to spend time with a companion animal, said Gail Buchwald, ASPCA senior vice president of animal placement.
“These foster opportunities are great for people who have a little extra time in the summer to care for a pet, but who might not be up to the responsibility year-round,” she said. “It’s really a win-win for the person and the pet.”
The ASPCA conducts the “Kitty Camp” program each summer to ease the burden on New York City shelters that are flooded with litters of kittens. Many times adult cats cannot compete with kittens for new homes, as many potential adopters are charmed by the antics of the younger animals.
“Moving adult cats out of the shelter temporarily provides a welcome change of pace, especially during a time when they are competing with younger cats that tend to get adopted more quickly,” Buchwald said. “For every cat we place in foster care, we are able to make room for just one more at the shelter and save one more life.”
To become a foster pet parent, contact the ASPCA at 212-876-7700.