The Onslow County government meeting held on March 1, 2025, featured a detailed discussion on the county's Foster Program for animals, particularly focusing on the needs and opportunities available for community involvement. Melissa, the placement coordinator for bridal services, highlighted the importance of fostering as an alternative to full-time adoption, emphasizing that there are various ways for residents to assist local animals in need.

The meeting revealed that the Foster Program is currently experiencing a lull, with only one foster animal, Miss Holly, in care. However, preparations are underway for the upcoming kitten season, prompting a call for more foster volunteers and donations of supplies. The coordinator noted that the shelter also has dogs available for short-term fostering, encouraging community members to take them out for weekends or holidays.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the training provided for foster caregivers, especially for neonatal kittens that may require intensive care. Melissa explained that these "bottle babies," which can be as young as a day old, need to be fed every two to three hours, similar to caring for a human infant. The program also supports foster caregivers transitioning kittens from bottle feeding to solid food, which can be a messy but rewarding process.

The meeting underscored the critical role of foster caregivers in socializing animals, preparing them for adoption, and ensuring that both mothers and their kittens are cared for in a stress-free environment. The collaborative efforts between the shelter and the community were highlighted as essential for the success of the Foster Program, especially during the busy spring season.

In conclusion, the meeting emphasized the ongoing need for community support in fostering animals, with a particular focus on the upcoming kitten season. The county encourages residents to consider fostering as a way to contribute to the welfare of animals in Onslow County.