23 Aug 2024
By Humane Society of Ventura County
In the world of animal rescue, there are stories that capture our hearts and remind us of the extraordinary impact that kindness and perseverance can have. Many of these comeback kid stories are those of helpless foster animals and the loving foster caregivers who help them reach their full potential. To finish off Foster Appreciation Week, we'd like to shine a light on just a few of our many foster parents who go above and beyond the call of duty to make a difference in the lives of these animals.
Meet Val and Julie, a compassionate couple with a passion for feline welfare. Their journey began when they decided to foster cats, driven by a love for animals and a desire to make a difference. Their lives took a turn when they encountered a sister duo, Buttercup, and Blossom, diagnosed with FIP, a viral disease that, until recently, was often considered a death sentence for cats. It can cause severe inflammation in various organs and is notoriously difficult to treat. The condition causes many other rescuers to shy away from due to the high stakes involved.
When Val and Julie first took in the FIP-positive sisters, they were aware of the immense challenges ahead. They were determined to give the kittens a chance at recovery, administering meticulous care and medication. Their efforts paid off as the kittens showed signs of improved health and vitality. Val and Julie grew deeply attached to the kittens during this time. When the time came to find permanent homes for the now-healthy cats, the couple decided to adopt the kittens themselves, feeling a profound sense of responsibility and commitment to their well-being. Their home was now filled with the joyous purrs and playful antics of the once-sickly cats. After successfully treating Buttercup and Blossom, they also fostered and later adopted another FIP-positive kitten named Stormy.
The tale of Val and Julie is a reminder that every effort, every bit of care, and every ounce of love counts. Their journey with the FIP-positive cats exemplifies the power of perseverance and the profound impact of fostering. By choosing to adopt the cats they had saved, they not only gave them a second chance at life but also enriched their own lives in ways they could never have imagined. In a world where stories of heartache and struggle often dominate, this story stands out as a shining example of the good that can come from compassion and commitment. It reminds us that behind every successful rescue is a story of dedication, sacrifice, and an unwavering belief in the power of love.
Honey was brought into Santa Barbara Animal Services after being found as a stray in Santa Maria. She gave birth to her eight adorable pups shortly after arriving, and all were named after sweeteners to go along with her name. Ann, a local animal lover, heard about Honey and her pups through the Nextdoor app and opened up her home to foster the bunch until they were ready to find their forever homes. The adorable brood grew before our eyes to become the most lovable and friendly fur babies who have all found their forever homes. Day by day, Ann saw just how special Honey was and it became clear that their bond was unbreakable. Now Honey has a permanent place to call home filled with love, laughter, and endless love. Here's to Ann and Honey proving that sometimes the perfect match is right in front of you.
Andrea is a true angel in our shelter community! Not only does she pour her heart into volunteering at the shelter, but she also has a special way with every cat that comes through our doors. Her dedication and kindness are unmatched. She is currently fostering Pino, a 3-year-old kitty who was struggling in the shelter environment. Thanks to Andrea’s unwavering love and incredible patience, Pino is thriving and ready for a forever home. If you’re looking for a special cat to add to your family, Pino would love to be yours! Andrea's story is a reminder of the incredible impact one person can make. Thank you, Andrea, for opening up your home for not just long-term fostering but for volunteering your time at the shelter with the cats and kittens.
