'We need you now:' Milwaukee animal rescue issues urgent plea for foster homes

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A local animal rescue group is facing a shortage of foster homes, and the clock is ticking.

With four cats in need of placement in just less than a month, Milwaukee Pets Alive (MPA) is calling on the community to help spread the word and find two homes, one for each of two bonded pairs, by Oct. 5. 

MPA is a No-Kill 501(c)3 nonprofit that is entirely volunteer-run. The organization rescues animals from Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission (MADACC) that are passed over by other organizations, including many with special needs. Since the group doesn't have a physical shelter, they rely on fosters to house all rescues as they await adoption.

MPA Executive Director Dr. Lisa Grabowski says they've been pleading for additional foster homes for months, with no leads. No foster applications have been submitted, and time is running out. 

"Baba" and "Ivy," mother and daughter, are 2 1/2 and 1 1/2 years old, respectively. Grabowski describes them as playful, quiet, shy and sensitive. 

Sisters "Pip" and "Baloo," both 1 1/2 years old, are "sweet, loving, playful, charming and funny" cats, who like to cuddle.

Both pairs need to be relocated by Oct. 5 when their current foster moves, and each pair is looking for a peaceful, adult-only home without other animals.

Grabowski says Pip and Baloo could succeed in a home with older, high school-aged kids if the home is tranquil overall. A home with one young, male cat who is active and easygoing would also be considered.

MPA says they're looking for fosters who will commit to these animals until they're adopted. They'll provide fosters with whatever the animals need during that time -- from vet care to food, supplies and toys.

"Village - we need you now more than ever," Grabowski wrote in a social media plea. "We have to get the word out."

Fosters must be located in Southeastern Wisconsin, in the counties of Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha, Ozaukee or Waukesha.

If you think your home might be a fit, click here to fill out a foster application.

Additional questions may be directed to [email protected].