I first spoke to Nurul Hidayah when I was looking for an adopter for the Sunnies. Nurul called saying she wanted only Honeybear. But I wanted all three to be adopted together, so the Sunnies later went to Rozita instead.
Recently, I was in touch with Nurul again when she offered to be a fosterer for KTAJ’s three kittens whose mum-cat was sick and hospitalised. Nurul is a first-timer, and has no prior experience in fostering kittens, what more such young ones.
While many would not trust a first-timer, I’d say it does not necessarily mean a first-timer cannot do a good job. In my opinion, what it takes is the commitment and willingness to learn, and most importantly, to go all the way and give it all we’ve got. Also, the willingness to ask and learn when in doubt.
After all, my first-ever experience in fostering kittens was only five years ago when I picked up Cow, Bunny and Pole from the roadside. They were only two days old. Before that, I had never even touched a cat all my life. And what did I have then? Absolutely nothing except the 2-minute advice from an officer from the local shelter whom I had called. He said the most merciful thing would be to bring them to the shelter and have them put down. Kittens this young would never survive without the mum. But I said, “I want to try, please teach me what to do.” And he did. And miraculously, Cow, Bunny and Pole survived. But that’s also because I kept consulting vets to ask and learn. Years later, I met this shelter officer – he turned out to be the shelter manager and is now a very helpful friend and adviser.
So, I would never doubt a first-timer as long as that first-timer is willing to learn and to seek advice.
When Nurul called me two days ago; she was quite frantic because one of the kittens had diarrhoea and another “was not moving”. I only managed to give advice over smses because I was at work. This was followed through to the next day, and I’m really happy the kittens survived and Nurul is now….an “experienced” fosterer, who, in turn, can guide others to be a fosterer just like her. Nurul also brought the kittens to the vet. That’s something I believe in – we are not vets, it’s dangerous to self-diagnose (and get it all wrong). Always consult a vet. Money can be earned back, but lives, once lost, are lost forever.
Here’s something from Nurul Hidayah:
Do you have a story to share and inspire? Leave a comment here or better still, write to me with photos, please. Let’s spread the word around and encourage more people to care for animals.
Comments
6 responses to “Geng Gebu – it always begins with a first-time experience”
Dear Dr. Chan,
Two weeks ago I volunteered to foster 3 month-old kittens who had been abandoned by their mother. While I have 2 adult cats of my own, I have never had any prior experience caring for kittens. However, reading your blog inspired me to take them in as I have learned so much about kitten care just from reading your posts on the Blueys (coupled with additional independent research and advice from my vet).
I'm proud to say that the kittens are now much healthier, happier and tubbier today compared to their first day with me. One of them has already found a good forever home. Thanks so much for sharing your animal stories with us as they are very helpful and inspiring. 🙂
Thank you, Yanna, and congratulations to you, too! I'd like your permission to blog your story to inspire others (some people don't read the comments here). If you can, please send me a photo of your kitten so that I can blog it. Keep up the good work. We definitely need more people like you!
Awww… good job Nurul. There's so much love in your pictures! Keep us updated on your Geng Gebu, pleeeaase.
To Dr Chan, tq for all that u had done.. cheng, u can follow them on my blog http://www.wnhidayah3.blogspot.com
Quote: "After all, my first-ever experience in fostering kittens was only five years ago when I picked up Cow, Bunny and Pole from the roadside. They were only two days old. Before that, I had never even touched a cat all my life."
Dr Chan, Can you share your history more regarding your involvement in animalcare and starting to care & adopt.? Your short stories really make us wanted to know more about your involvement history. Or is there previous post we can read and know you / involvement more? Really inspired us.. Thanks 🙂
Hi Owner of 13 Cats,
There are thousands of blog posts you can click on to read in this blog. My earlier stories can be found in these e-books: https://sites.google.com/site/kindnesstoanimalsinc/ (Click on Pawprints on My Heart for the story of my very first experience with newborn kittens.)
The books are also available in hardcopy, for free.
Hope this helps.
ky