Christy Forman has a special place in her heart for puppy dog eyes.

Forman fosters cats and dogs for the Humane Society of Freeborn County while they wait to be adopted.

Forman started volunteering with the Humane Society by getting involved with fund-raisers. That eventually gave way to her being asked to keep small animals for a few days at a time. Now she has numerous cats and dogs scrambling through her Albert Lea home.

Since the Humane Society has no kennels in Freeborn County, it relies on volunteers to house the animals. Forman believes this is actually a benefit for the animals.

“It makes them more adoptable. They will be more calm,” she said.

When a pet is adopted, it can be hard for Forman to see the animal go.

“It’s really hard to give them up because you get attached to them,” she said.

Forman said some of the new owners keep in touch with her and e-mail updated photos of the animals.

When an animal is dropped off with the Humane Society, different fosters are called until a home can be found. The fosters will keep the animal until a new home is found because none of the animals will be put to sleep.

Forman believes her animals know that she is helping them.

&uot;When you get (an animal) from the Humane Society, it’s like they are most appreciative,&uot; she said. &uot;It’s like they know you’re saving their life.&uot;

The Humane Society of Freeborn County is in need of more foster homes; if you would like to volunteer, call 377-8501 for more information.