We met Julia and Roy at a volunteer event and our immediate impression was “Yes!” Although they didn’t know much about animal care, they wanted to learn. Several months and two foster-fails (Simba and Nimbus) later, here’s what they have to say about being a Ruff Patches foster.
What made you decide to open your home to fostering animals?
In the beginning it was general curiosity to get a feel for what it is like to have a pet. Now that we have some experience, we can´t help but have an emotional motivation to foster animals. With the new knowledge we have about homeless cats and other animals, we feel like if we can do it, why not?
How do you think the animals benefit from your foster home?
The animals in our foster home get all of the love and attention that they would in their future forever homes. By fostering, we make that transition into their forever homes more seamless.
How do you benefit from the animals?
By enjoying their company and having an overall personal feeling of fulfillment.
What have you learned through the process?
A lot of random cat facts that are very interesting. Also, animals have different personalities just like humans do.
What’s your favorite part of fostering?
The cute videos and pictures of all the memories we make.
What would you say to encourage your friends to foster animals?
Never write something off until you try it! Fostering is very fun and rewarding.
What would you warn them about?
That it will not be easy at first, but if you are willing to learn and have an open mind, you´ll end up loving it!
How did it feel to adopt two of your foster cats?
Amazing. We love our cats! We both shared moments where we realized that the cats belonged in our home.
What else would you like to foster besides cats?
Dogs in the future when we have a larger home.
Anything else you want to add?
[Roy’s] creativity has gone through the roof with all these crazy ideas he has for cat toys.
More on Roy’s cat toys later! If you would like to foster cats and/or dogs for Ruff Patches, sign up on our volunteer page. Listen to Julia and Roy. It’s a rewarding experience that helps you as much as it helps the animals!