When you think of a typical foster parent for kittens, a dog might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, for Raylan, a rescue dog himself, fostering kittens has become his life’s mission. He takes his job very seriously, never missing a beat when a kitten needs him. This pup has become an essential support and his mom, Laura, thinks it’s miraculous. Raylan, now 13 years old, has helped foster over 150 kittens in the past ten years. His heartwarming story of dedication to his feline friends is both inspiring and touching.
Raylan’s journey began when he was rescued from a shelter by Laura. He was on the verge of being euthanized due to lack of space, but his loving nature and adaptability quickly won Laura over. Soon after bringing him home, Laura began fostering kittens that were too young or sick to be in a shelter. It wasn’t long before Raylan’s ‘maternal’ instincts kicked in, and he started caring for the kittens as if they were his own.
From the very beginning, Raylan demonstrated an innate love for the kittens. He would carry them around gently, just as a mother dog or cat would do with their babies. Raylan has never hurt a kitten, and he is always attentive to their needs. If a cat won’t come to him, he has learned to pick up a cat toy and play with it to entice them. This unique bond between Raylan and the kittens has helped many of them come out of their shells more quickly, as they view him as a sort of “big mother cat.”
Raylan’s protective nature also extends to interactions with other dogs. While he is generally friendly with people, he can become defensive if he feels another dog is too interested in his kittens or giving off the wrong vibes. In these situations, Raylan will immediately place himself between the kittens and the other dog, growling and ensuring the kittens’ safety.
Raylan also takes on the role of a teacher, showing the kittens how to be brave and navigate the world. He enforces rules, such as not allowing kittens to scratch the couch, and can even understand some of their meows. If a kitten yelps during a disagreement with another cat, Raylan will quickly come over to break up the fight.
As a highly intelligent dog, Raylan requires mental stimulation and enjoys having tasks to do. Fostering kittens provides him with a sense of purpose and keeps him engaged. When a group of kittens eventually leaves his care, Raylan often becomes restless and bored, eagerly awaiting the arrival of more kittens to foster.
Throughout his life, Raylan has played a crucial role in the lives of over 150 kittens. His love, protection, and guidance have helped these young felines grow into strong, confident cats, ready for their forever homes. Raylan’s story is a beautiful example of the power of love and compassion transcending the boundaries between species.
Toledo, United States.
