Battersea fosterer celebrates 140 cat milestone
Tina Moore, a Battersea volunteer and cat fosterer, has reached the milestone of fostering over 140 cats for the charity.
The achievement comes as the animal welfare charity also celebrates its 140th anniversary.
Ms Moore began fostering Battersea’s cats in 2015, after her own pet cat passed away. In the eight years since then she has cared for cats of every age group, including senior cats and kittens.
Among her charges have been new mothers, who needed a place to care for their kittens.
This has included one-year-old domestic short-hair Ariel, who was heavily pregnant when she was brought off the streets to Battersea’s Old Windsor rescue centre. After giving birth, Ariel needed a peaceful home to care for her young kittens.
Ms Moore provided a safe home for Ariel and her litter, where the kittens quickly displayed their unique personality. This included Dave, who soon revealed himself to be the most energetic and playful kitten of the litter.
Ms Moore’s fostering meant that all of the cats, including Ariel herself, were soon adopted into permanent homes.
Tina Moore said: “Being there for cats like Ariel is really what it’s all about, especially helping young kittens like Dave get used to new people so they can explore the world around them. You do end up having your favourites such as a recent litter of kittens I looked after called Rock, Paper and Scissors whose playful antics made me fall in love with the three little bundles of fur!”.
“I’ve fostered so many cats over these past eight years, and it’s so special knowing I’ve played an important part in helping them find the love that they deserve, especially as Battersea is now celebrating its 140th anniversary of being there for cats.”
Rosy Price, interim head of volunteering, fostering and communities, said: "We’re always on the lookout for caring animal lovers who may not be able to commit to permanently rehoming one of our rescue animals, but can provide a temporary home for one of our cats or dogs so we can help identify the quirky personality traits that help match them with a forever family.
“If you think you could help by fostering your first rescue animal with us, we’d love to hear from you.”
Battersea foster carers must live near one of the charity’s centres in London, Windsor or Brands Hatch and have access to a car. They will receive support and training from Battersea, as well as pet care supplies.
For more information, visit their website.
Image © Battersea