In 2007, more than 781 animals were placed in foster care by the Hawaiian Humane Society. Foster families nurse the ill animals back to health and help the young become socialized. In addition, the volunteers help animals when their owners cannot — for example, caring for pets of the elderly, disabled, temporarily hospitalized, victims of domestic violence or deploying soldiers. The length of time an animal is fostered can range from two or three weeks to one year.

Over the past two years, foster caregiver Jerry Gue has nurtured 15 animals. Currently, he's watching seven puppies.

"I decided to become a pet foster parent because I have the time to dedicate to these animals who often need round-the-clock care," said Gue. "I enjoy watching the animals grow during the month that I typically have them. I provide them with a happy and healthy start and am pleased knowing they'll eventually get placed with a loving family."

The Society offers various fostering opportunities.

The Pets of Patriots program, for example, offers pet assistance to qualified military personnel deploying to war on immediate notice. Suzanne Nakano happily serves as a Pets of Patriots volunteer as a way of supporting the military. For the past eight months, Nakano cared for Gypsy, whose owner was deployed overseas. During that time, Nakano sent Gypsy's owner photos and updates so she wouldn't feel so far away from her beloved dog.

For those who are elderly, temporarily hospitalized, disabled or victims of domestic violence, the Society's Pals Program helps people and their pets stay together.

Fostering animals is ideal for those who aren't able to make the 10- to 15-year commitment of pet ownership or who are deciding what type of pet, and what age, is suitable for their family. In addition, families who want to volunteer together make excellent foster caregivers.

Volunteers have the option to specify their fostering preferences; for example, they can choose what type of animal they're willing to foster, the animal's age and the length of service they can offer.

"Foster volunteers give homeless animals a second chance at life, especially those that need medication or socialization," said Kay Watanabe, volunteer program coordinator. "With our peak kitten and puppy season approaching, foster volunteers are in high demand."

The Hawaiian Humane Society provides basic care necessities — such as food, medicine or cat litter — for fostered pets. Animal care costs for pets fostered through the Patriots and Pals programs are the owner's responsibility.

ANIMAL COMPANIONS

CALLIE

TAG NO. 08-2322

What exquisite markings on this young counter stray. Swirls of black, orange and white — scrumptious! Though life on the lam is no fun for any of God's creatures, pretty Callie does not seem any the worse for her experiences thus far.

TRIXIE

TAG NO. 08-897

Trixie came to the shelter as a stray on Jan. 17. She's rambunctious, tends to jump on people, and has heartworm (a vet-treatable disease). The good news is that this 4-year-old mix is confident, smart and certainly not too old to learn a few new tricks.

These animals already may have found homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open weekdays from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., weekends and holidays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For directions, special events and to see more pets available for adoption, visit www.hawaiianhumane.org or call 946-2187.