The results are in on the age-old question of “cats or dogs” — cats are the winners in the United States. According to the American Humane Society, as of 2015, 95.6 million U.S. households had cats whereas 83.3 million had a dog. National Kitten Day, on July 10, was established to both celebrate these creatures and raise awareness about high numbers of homeless kitties at shelters, in need of adoption. We talked to a volunteer at Marin Humane who regularly offers a foster home. For information about volunteering at Marin Humane, visit marinhumane.org.
Janet Valette, Kentfield: Volunteer Kitten Foster
What inspired you to be a volunteer?
I’ve always been a huge animal lover, especially of cats. The idea of working with kittens on an ongoing basis was like a dream come true.
How long have you been volunteering?
Almost four years.
Any special stories you can share?
I’m currently fostering a mom cat who gave birth at the shelter on Easter. I was caring for her and her kittens when the shelter called about a unique situation. Two tiny orphaned kittens had been brought in and were not doing well. The staff asked if I’d be willing to foster these two others if the momma cat took to them. After getting the OK from the shelter veterinarians and with careful introductions, the mom started nursing and caring for them as if they were her own.
Most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part is seeing kittens who’ve had a rough or shaky start in life blossom and go on to live in loving homes.
