Audrey Valentine

How long have you been a PAWS Chicago volunteer?

My son and I began volunteering as a part of PAWS Chicago’s Family Service program as a way to get him involved in something other than video games. Then, I decided to continue on as a volunteer in Kitty City and as a foster for cats. I like dogs, but for me, it’s all about the cats. I have been a volunteer for a little over a year.

Is there a favorite experience that has stood out during your time as a volunteer at PAWS Chicago?

Fostering cats can make you both happy and sad.  I’m happy to take cats in, but sad when they go back and return to start their new lives. All of the cats bring joy to my life, but Ari is one that stood out. We miss that little man, but I was happy to see that he was adopted by his second foster.

Why do you volunteer for PAWS Chicago? 

I volunteer because PAWS Chicago does its best to make sure that the cats and kittens have a clean, safe place to stay while they search for their forever home. I love spending my time with the kittens and like that the Adoption Center houses them in cageless suites.

Do you have any pets at home?

I have two paws cats at home - Peaches and CiCi. Peaches was my first foster and she came in to our life by chance. I went to PAWS Chicago to foster an older cat, but my son had an idea to see some other cats. One of them was Peaches. CiCi was at PAWS for more than a year because she had some behavior issues and had trouble finding a home. It would surprise people to know that CiCi is a very affectionate cat when she wants to be – all she needed was a place where she could be herself..

Have you participated in any PAWS Chicago special events that support animals?

My son and I volunteered at the Cindo de Mayo parade in 2012 and helped distribute information about the importance of spay/neuter.

What value has volunteering at PAWS Chicago brought you? 

 

That having an animal around can be good for your health.