Patti Paws Kitten Foster Program

Providing temporary care and safe housing
for homeless kittens and pregnant cats

The 'Patti Paws' Story

During 'Kitten Season' from early spring to mid-fall, over 100 kittens, ages 8 weeks and under, are euthanized as "unadoptable" every week in Clark County because there is no one to take care of them. Upon learning this shocking fact, volunteer Patti, who had raised many kittens in the past, knew something had to be done to save these babies. Of course, it is best if all pets are spayed and neutered before any litters are born, but once they are here, we owe them the chance to survive and find good homes. With Patti's donation to get the program started, the "Patti Paws Rescue Program" was born. You are invited to become part of this rewarding effort.


It's Your Choice

You can choose the length of time you wish to foster, and the age and number of cats you are able to take in for us.

We will match you with just the right ones.

You may help approve adopters and help place the right cat with the right home.

You can refer potential adopters to us for careful screening and home visits


West Columbia Gorge Humane Society Cat or Kitten for Adoption

We Support You

Foster families are introduced to other experienced foster parents in our network for advice and support.

We are available 24 hours a day to offer assistance.

We have a veterinary technician available by phone days and evenings to answer any questions.

We provide helpful written materials and hands-on training to get you started.



West Columbia Gorge Humane Society Cat or Kitten for Adoption

What makes a good foster home?
If you...

~ have a warm, quiet, clean, safe place such as a spare room or warm garage for your fosters to live.

~ have secure screens on all windows.

~ are able to attend to their needs, such as changing litter boxes, providing food and water, socializing and training with family members. It could include bottle feeding if you've chosen to shelter orphaned kittens.

~ are willing to keep all cats in your care as indoor-only guests.

~ will keep foster pets separated from your own as necessary.

~ have had your own pets vaccinated, and cats test negative for feline leukimia and FIV, fatal illnesses that can be easily passed to kittens.

~ have transportation to seek veterinary care as requested when needed.

~ have the patience and love to train and socialize the animals in your care.

~ will make the animals you foster available for adoption opportunities, and help approve new adoptive parents.

~ have some finances available to help with the expense of food and supplies.


A real partnership:

We Provide...

You Provide...

24-hour support
Materials to get you started testing for leukimia-FIV
prescribed medications
distemper vaccine
milk replacer

Loving care, shelter and training
cat litter and boxes
quality canned/dry food
transportation as needed
supplies (toys, blankets, beds, etc.)

Individual circumstances may affect your foster situation.
The items in our shelter and foster partner are usual and customary but may change with your needs and our available supplies and funds.

Foster Program Application


© 2004, 2005 West Columbia Gorge Humane Society, Washougal, Washington