Deanna De Cou and her family have long embraced the charm of pet companionship. With two older cats, Bijou and Fredonia, adopted from no-kill shelters and cherished for years, the family has recently added a new twist to their household routine by fostering kittens. Mike, Deanna, and Shea have welcomed three litters, totaling 11
playful kittens, into their home. The journey into kitten fostering began with a visit to Heidi’s Village. Eager to support a 501(c)(3) organization known for its innovative animal welfare model, the De Cou family took a tour that left them inspired. The nursery’s expert care for newborn
kittens impressed the family, and the idea of fostering became irresistible. At the Smitten Kitten nursery, caretakers assign names to the kittens, adding a personal touch to each bundle of joy. The playful energy of these kittens is infectious. As Deanna observes: the foster kittens sprint, pounce, then suddenly drop into the sweetest, instant naps. Their talent for wrestling, playing,
and then instantly dozing off has quickly become a household highlight. Not only do the kittens bring laughter with every leap and tumble, but their antics have
also brought unexpected fun, endless energy, and tenderness. The initiative that has captured the love and enthusiasm of Deanna and her family—Heidi’s Village—aims to lead an initiative fundamental to the heart of the community. Their goal is to ensure that every animal is healthy and well-adapted/socialized so that they are adoptable and make the perfect pet. They are equipped to take in just-born kittens and have staff working 24 hours
a day, 7 days a week, to care for these tiny lives. Constant attention is required, as newborn kittens need to eat every 2 to 3 hours. Their most relevant and highlighted message is that they are promoting and fighting for these kittens, because newborn kittens are the most euthanized animals, but if the kittens achieve eight weeks, they become the most adoptable pets—and you are saving the lives of these beautiful and joyful creatures. One memorable time, which is close to Deanna’s heart, occurred just as the family was being introduced— the kittens attacked a simple ball with such gusto that their bounding leaps
turned into a coordinated game of tag. Watching the tiny creatures scurry around before collapsing in a fluffy heap never fails to bring a smile to all who witness it. Such moments provide a refreshing break from mundane tasks
and remind the family of the pure joy that animals can bring into a home. Heidi’s Village made it really simple
for the De Cous to become a foster family. They provided everything needed to get started. Deanna and her family just needed a place for the kittens to eat, sleep, and play, and lots of love to give. Since starting to foster, the De Cou
family now spares no expense when it comes to keeping the kittens they have fostered well entertained. Spoiled much like cherished grandchildren, the kittens enjoy cozy beds, specially designed cat- themed placemats, and a series of little tents and tunnels that create a miniature
playground. This thoughtful care reflects the family’s deep love for animals and commitment to nurturing every pet that comes through their door. Living in Black Rock has only enhanced this experience. After 21 years in Las Sendas, the De Cou family still counts on neighbors with whom to share wine and watchful care, and they cherish the warm community spirit as much as their beloved pets.

The close-knit neighborhood offers support, shared stories, and impromptu gatherings that further enrich the
family’s life—this tight-knit community being the perfect background for spreading love and generosity. Thanks to Deanna De Cou for sharing their heartfelt story of fostering kittens and celebrating the joy that pets bring to their home and community. And as the De Cou household states, “We believe that if everyone had kittens, there would be world peace!”