Melissa Jackyra
   Foster Guardian

Melissa is one of Animal Alliance's long-time volunteers and foster parents, having been with us almost from the very beginning.

From the time she was a child, Melissa loved animals and had an affinity for cats. In addition to having pets at home, she and her sister were constantly rescuing stray cats and taking care of them.

No matter where she is or what she's doing, Melissa always seems to find or hear about a cat who needs her help (or did the word get out about this kind person and the cats found her?). From abandoned cats at her college, at a carwash, to stray cats in her own backyard and cats living in feral colonies, you name a place and chances are she's rescued a cat from there!

Melissa has worked tirelessly to place Animal Alliance cats in loving, foster and forever homes, and prides herself on finding the very best adopters for our little friends. She keeps in regular contact with her adopters and enjoys getting updates about her former foster cats.

Melissa is interested in many animal welfare/animal rights issues with a focus on animal overpopulation, promoting and doing spay/neuter and feral cats. She is an experienced feral cat caretaker and currently assists with the care and management of two sizeable colonies. When she gets some free time in her busy schedule, Melissa would like to take a vacation to Italy and visit Torre Argentina, a world-famous sanctuary for feral cats nestled among the ancient Roman ruins. Until then, she's happy just doing what she does best- lending a helping hand and giving love to any animal who needs it.

Melissa has 3 cats at home, all of whom were rescued and are very spoiled: Pepper, Cinnamon and Olivia.