September 15, 2005

Humane Society Silicon Valley overflows with cats and kittens

These days, Hu-mane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV) is one big MEOW zone. The shelter is buzzing with the sound of kittens and cats.

Kitten season typically begins in May and lasts through October. Cats are seasonal breeders and every spring and summer, thousands of felines are brought to the Santa Clara facility. During May, June, July and August alone, the shelter took in more than 2,360 cats and kittens.

“It’s been another busy season,” said Beth Ward, vice president of Animal Care for HSSV. “We struggle to find space for all of our foster kittens that are coming back from foster homes.” In the last two weeks, Ward has had to find space for 60 kittens returning from foster care.

Humane Society Silicon Valley’s volunteer foster program trains caregivers to provide a temporary home for kittens until they are eight weeks old, weigh at least 2 pounds and are socialized with humans. Individuals interested in becoming a foster parent for kittens, can visit the Humane Society’s website at: http://www.hssv.org/you_can_help/volunteer/positions/foster.htm, or call the shelter’s volunteer information line at 408.727.3383, ext. 742.

The adoption fee for a kitten or cat at Humane Society Silicon Valley is $155. The price includes:

- Professional health examination
- Spay/neuter
- First vaccination
- De-worming (for cats under 4 months)
- Microchip and pet ID tag
- Free access to an animal behaviorist
- Medical examination by a participating outside veterinarian
- Educational materials on the care of the animal

Ward notes that the shelter has a large selection of cats and kittens and adoption counselors to help people find the best cat/kitten to suit their needs. “We believe we are the best place to adopt a pet. We have nearly every color and breed you can think of. If anyone has ever thought of adopting a cat, they should definitely come to our shelter.