Hayley's Story

In the summer of 2025, I decided to start fostering because I saw how great the need was and I had an empty room so I thought might as well.  The process moved quickly, and within a week, I brought home my very first foster, Callisto.

When I took home my very first foster cat Callisto, I couldn’t believe how affectionate she was. From the minute I opened up her carrier, she wanted love nonstop. After just 18 days with me, I received a message from Jeffrey, the Adoption Coordinator, that someone submitted an application and wanted to meet her.

It was a bittersweet moment. I had poured my heart into her, and now it was time to let her go. But I reminded myself: that’s what fostering is. Loving fully, even if it’s temporary. Callisto may not be with me anymore, but she’ll always hold a special place in my heart.

The day I dropped her off happened to line up with an in-take day. I saw 15 cats packed into the Paws and Claws treatment room, waiting for foster homes. I told Scout, the Foster Coordinator, that I wanted to bring one of them home. I ended up leaving with three gray kittens. 

My foster journey has only just begun, but I already know it’s going to be one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. 

Love,

Hayley L.