The Capital Area Humane Society (CAHS) is a beacon of hope for animals in need. While the organization is renowned for its dedication to animal welfare through adoption and rehabilitation efforts, it’s their fostering program that truly shows their commitment to saving lives and nurturing compassion within the community.
At CAHS, fostering isn’t just about providing temporary shelter for animals; it’s about offering them a chance to thrive in a loving environment while awaiting their forever homes. Whether it’s a litter of kittens needing round-the-clock care, a shy dog requiring socialization, or an injured animal in need of medical attention, CAHS fosters step up to provide the individualized care and attention these animals deserve. One of the program’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to connect animals in need with the right caregivers.
Michigan State student Elliott Oliverio, fostered an older dog named Rosie in November 2023 and had very high praise for the fostering process. “Fostering was incredibly fun and gave me the opportunity to see if I was ready to fully care for a pet. Having a dog is a big responsibility and I quickly learned that,” he said.
Ellen Gratch, one of the adoption staff members, created the fostering program at CAHS three years ago.
“It has been an unbelievable joy helping these animals and putting them in the hands of good people,” said Gratch. “I started this program to alleviate the overcrowding of animals in the shelter, which allows us to be able to rescue more animals, but it also gives some of these high-stress animals a chance to break from the shelter and into a loving home.”
Kitten season is right around the corner, and this presents tons of new opportunities for people to foster, adopt or volunteer to support these animals. Getting involved in the fostering program is extremely easy and rewarding. Interested individuals can start by joining the CAHS Foster Group on Facebook and submitting an application. After submitting the application and any necessary training, volunteers can choose an animal that is in need of a temporary home based on their preferences and availability. In Lansing and beyond, the fostering program at The Capital Area Humane Society stands as a shining example of the transformative power of love, one foster pet at a time.