Cat condos at Texas Humane Heroes give cats and kittens a safe place to play and rest. The felines also have access to an outdoor enclosed patio. Only two kittens remain from a recent adoption weekend.
“People and animals have that connection. They give you unconditional love and are so innocent. Our connection with our family pets is an unbreakable bond.”
— George Grammas
a foster parent through Texas Humane Heroes. But keep in mind these are mostly special-needs animals. “We foster for a few reasons like mamas-to-be, nursing babies, heartworm positive dogs, and behavior problem dogs. Humane Heroes pays all expenses for foster pet parents. If an animal becomes sick, bring it back and we will take it to our onsite veterinarian or to an outside veterinarian,” Rankin said. People cannot just say they want to foster a pet, Rankin explains. Prospective foster parents must complete a volunteer application and be
approved by the volunteer coordinator. A detailed foster training manual is provided to help foster parents understand the responsibility they will be undertaking. But beware, sudden love is a hazard for foster parents and Rankin said Humane Heroes loves what they call “foster failures.” “That means the pet has found a good forever home,” Rankin said. “Foster moms are so dedicated. They want to keep their guy or girl, but want to foster more.” Rankin said it takes discipline to let go of a foster pet when the time
comes, especially if the foster parent has become emotionally attached to it. “It takes discipline to let go,” Rankin said. “Know that it is going to a good home. Foster families are our lifesavers.” Saving lives The annual budget is $1.2 million, and is covered by grants and donations. Fundraisers are held on a regular basis, and last year they hosted their first Diamond in the Ruff Gala in Austin and raised more than $60,000 for the shelters. Monetary and in-kind donations of cleaning supplies, toys to keep the animals busy, canned dog and cat food, (no dry food please, the animals are on a strict diet), blankets, leashes, paper towels and hand sanitizer are welcome. With all of the help the shelter receives from the community they give back through educational programs. “One of the things we do is Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM
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