Fosters Needed During Humane Society Construction
FOSTER HOMES NEEDED DURING
HUMANE SOCIETY CONSTRUCTION
Kristi Lausch, for the Humane Society of Otter Tail County
It’s an exciting time for the Humane Society of Otter Tail County as we plan for the ground breaking of a 3400 square foot expansion (at the existing location). Yes, you read that correctly …. After 4 years of planning and fundraising, the HSOTC is finally set to break ground June 2nd and we could not be more grateful to everyone who has helped to make this happen! But before we can truly celebrate, we still need YOUR HELP. During shelter construction phase, the need for reliable foster homes will be critical to our operations. For the safety and well-being of both the animals and staff, we will need to completely move out of the current building and into a temporary location for approximately 6 months. Beginning early May, the HSOTC will be housed in old Companion Animal Clinic, located at 1505 W. Lincoln Avenue in Fergus Falls. Would you consider becoming a temporary foster home for a dog, cat or pocket pet? Would you consider donating to help pay for the necessary upgrades and additional expenses of the temporary space (with an estimated cost of $30,000)?
The requirements of fostering are similar to our adoption application process. All current animals in the home must be current on all vaccinations, you must own or have landlord approval to add animals to the household, there is a background check, and we ask for references. We have a very detailed foster handbook available at the shelter and we are happy to visit with you about all of the details involved. And of course, all pet food, supplies and necessary medical services are provided to you, at the expense of the HSOTC.
HSOTC foster extraordinaire, Lori Kettner, has been fostering cats/kittens for the HSOTC for the past nine years. Lori says she especially loves taking in families of newborn kittens and “watching them grow and develop unique personalities. You get attached and cry when you bring them back to the shelter but the satisfaction of giving these delightful creatures a better life overshadows all else. The joy you get in knowing you have given them a positive start and a better chance to get adopted is worth every sacrifice.” Lori’s husband Matt has been a huge source of support and they love the way fostering gives their two sons the opportunity to serve others, both humans and animals. The Kettner family has had a total of 80 feline families come through their home and it’s truly a “family affair” they enjoy together.
In addition to fosters, the HSOTC will also need MANPOWER to help with the transfer of shelter animals, kennels, equipment and supplies. The construction of a temporary outdoor fenced area will also be needed as well as walking and socializing of dogs and cats. Yes, gifts of money are critical to our goal but never underestimate the VALUE OF YOUR TIME! Could you PARTNER WITH US FOR THE NEXT SIX MONTHS as we work hard to build a bigger, better shelter? Please contact Executive Director Chris Cannon at 218-739-3494 to find out how you can help. And please note that shelter services may be limited during this time. Follow updates on the Humane Society OTC Facebook page or check the website at www.humanesocietyotc.org.