Meet Jayne! Jayne is one of RASKC’s longest serving volunteers, working in a variety of roles. Jayne began fostering about 24 years ago, and she continues to foster. Jayne helped launch RASKC’s Tukwila Petco Cat-Care Team in 2013, and she has been serving as Lead Volunteer of the team ever since. Jayne also fills in on Early Morning Cat Crew. Jayne worked several summers in RASKC’s Mission Reunite: Help & Hope for Lost Pets program. For many years Jayne worked a weekly shift on the Dog Team. She served as a Dog Team mentor and helped out with special adoption events. Jayne still helps with dogs for Comcast filming. Thank you, Jayne!

Q: How did you hear about RASKC?

A: I was aware that King County Animal Care & Control existed [later named RASKC], but I didn’t volunteer there until my then 11 year old daughter asked if we could foster puppies. A teacher at her school fostered puppies and brought them to school to let them socialize with the students. We first fostered six puppies and then went on to fostering kittens and cats. Over the years I was a volunteer dog walker and did offsite dog and cat adoptions. Most recently I volunteer as a Lead at Tukwila Petco with cat adoptions.

Q: What made you want to volunteer, especially to work with animals?

A: I have always loved animals and grew up with various cats, dogs, and birds. Volunteering is a fun way to help homeless animals and meet some great people in the process.

Q: What do you do when you aren’t volunteering at RASKC?

A: When I’m not volunteering, I love spending time with my family, friends, and pets. I love to read, garden, and enjoy nature. I like watching Animal Planet, especially the vet shows and animal rescue.

Q: What have you gained and hope to gain from your experience as a volunteer with RASKC?

A: I’ve met many wonderful volunteers and compassionate shelter employees. I have a lot of respect for those who care for animals.

Q: What is your life motto?

A: My life motto is to be kind to people, animals, and our beautiful planet. Be grateful for what you have and help out everyone you can.

Q: What is your favorite park to take your dog for a walk?

A: We have a beautiful lab/ Irish Setter named Neci, who is nearly 14 years old. She still loves to go on walks, but her crazy ball-chasing days are over. We frequented Grandview Dog Park when she was younger, and she could run for two hours and still not be worn out. She loves everybody and is very sweet.

Q: What’s the best thing about your cats?

A: The best thing about being owned by a cat is having them climb on your lap and purr. No wonder they lower your blood pressure! I also like to watch them sleep (they look so relaxed and content). It’s also fun to watch them play with toys and chase imaginary bugs! They really seem to enjoy life.

Q: How would you describe your cats’ personalities?

A: We have three cats. The oldest, 13 year old Christo, is semi-feral. He’s pure white and enjoys being petted, but is ready to run if you move too fast. Itty Bitty is 10 years old, a Siamese mix who rules the roost (even the dog respects her). She’s super affectionate. If you sit, she’s in your lap. She likes to be carried around on your shoulders. Our youngest (a former foster) is nine months old, Chase. He’s grey tabby and super sweet. He’s also very high energy and eats a lot!

Q: What is the best advice you would give people who want pets?

A: My advice to anyone considering adopting a pet is to do your research. Know what the pet requires and the cost and time involved. Factor in who will care for the pet when you go on vacation. I can’t imagine not having pets in my life.

Q: Describe a memorable moment you’ve had with an animal?

A: One of my most memorable moments was taking a shelter dog, a badly matted Shih Tzu, to the groomer and bringing her back to the shelter transformed. She was gorgeous and got adopted the next day. I got attached jus spending that day with her. Every adoption makes me happy.