At Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS), there is a dedicated group of volunteers that foster and take care of animals that come through the shelter. Sometimes, these animals need a different environment than the one provided at SAS. Other times, an animal may need extra one-on-one training that can be provided by a foster parent in their own home.
Foster parent Kari P. is one the valued Critter Foster Parents that helps the shelter’s smaller animals (think hamsters or guinea pigs) on their journey to a forever home. We had the chance to chat with Kari recently about her SAS fostering experience.
How long have you been fostering?
I only started fostering formally in 2019. I moved from Kitsap County in fall 2016 and started volunteering with SAS in 2018.
What drew you to fostering or made you want to foster?
I adore critters; when my boys were growing up, we had almost every pet possible. It seemed like a logical volunteering step for me once our boys left the nest.
What is your favorite thing about fostering?
I love knowing that I am preparing, socializing, and keeping a critter healthy for someone to love.
Why do you believe fostering is important?
I think it’s helpful for critters to live in a home, with people, with both the quiet and activity that comes in a family environment. I think we also get crucial information about the animals themselves when we live with them and observe them in a home environment.
How has fostering changed or made a lasting impact on your life?
Being an “empty nester” (our youngest children are at university), it’s brought some fun, some excitement, and some unexpected joy to our home. It also sometimes brings the “kids” back to the house so they can meet the critters… 🙂
What advice would you give to first-time fosters?
Try something new! Fostering is a great way to learn about new species of animals. Lean on the knowledge of the experienced fosters — don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Any fostering story you’re particularly proud of or excited about?
I’ve fostered different critters, but guinea pigs tend to be my favorites; this summer, I was able to host Beatrice and Daphne — who were part of a large mixed group. Daphne gave birth to four pups in my care and it was so much fun. All four babes, including the runt, thrived. The whole lot (6 piggies total) are now either adopted or getting ready to be available for adoption.
To read more about what it was like for Kari to care for expecting guinea pig mothers, click here.
How has fostering changed for you in the time of COVID?
It has kept me busy. So thankful!
Anything else you’d like to share about your experiencing fostering with SAS?
I have hosted guinea pigs, hamsters, and a leopard gecko — and so far, I’ve not had a “foster fail.”
If you’re interested in supporting Seattle Animal Shelter and its programs, consider donating to the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation.