It’s the bottom of the 9th and the Bluffton High Bobcats are looking to pull out a win. Cheering them on are the Frye family and their two foster kittens. Wait. Kittens in baseball? Yes, there are kittens in baseball!
Melissa Frye and her family started fostering kittens about a year ago, and they’ve already helped Palmetto Animal League save 12 precious lives. Their foster kittens, Emerald and Lilac, frolic in the grass with the Frye’s daughter Molly while their son Miles pitches for the varsity team.
“They are bottle fed babies and need to be fed quite often,” says Melissa. “Our school plays teams over two hours away. The kittens come along, so we can keep them fed properly.”
While the real action is on the ball field, the Frye’s foster kittens have amassed a following of their own.
“Everyone loves their adventurous antics when they play in the grass,” says Melissa. “They love all the attention, and they are accustomed to being around lots of different people.”
Socialization is an important part of PAL’s no kill rescue mission.
“Introducing foster pets to new people and places helps prepare them for adoption,” explains PAL Foster Coordinator Sally Dawkins. “It’s very important to expose them to as many experiences as possible so they can fit into most households.”
The Fryes initially began fostering because of Molly’s immense love for cats. The first three kittens they ever brought home still had their eyes closed and only weighed about 7 ounces. The family got so attached to Boots, Brandy, and Mittens, they decided to adopt them.
“There is definitely a special bond you have with an animal that depends on you completely,” explains Melissa. “As fosters, we feel good knowing that we can make a difference, even if it’s just one little kitten at a time.”
While the Bobcats may not always win, having foster kittens at their games is a win-win for everyone!
“We own multiple cat strollers,” says Melissa with a smile. “Taking the kittens to the ball field has always been very easy.”
While it’s hard to say goodbye when your kittens are ready for adoption, you will know in your heart that you gave those tiny little creatures a great start to a wonderful life.
For more information about fostering for PAL, please click here.
Lindsay Perry, Palmetto Animal League Marketing Coordinator
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