Why I Volunteer
I am a volunteer at Stray Cat Blues and consider my job to be one of the greatest assets to our furry felines, once they make their way into our hands. I am a Cage Cleaner, which doesn’t sound all that glamorous, but to me it's a needed job and one that helps our cats and kittens get adopted.
After I retired I decided I wanted to do some volunteer work. My husband and I went on a great trip and when we returned, my beautiful Calico named Ginger had died. I was bereft. Not wanting to get another cat right away, I decided to volunteer with Stray Cat Blues and hoped to get my “cat fix” without a long-term commitment to allow us to continue our travels.
So what do cage cleaners do? We have an AM and PM shift with teams of 2 per schedule. We alternate between team members and our basic commitment is every other week. I have a morning shift which I love. I gather my supplies, unlock the door, and I am greeted by up to 10 cats. Each cat in turn gets clean water, refreshed kibble and wet food. I clean litter boxes, greet the kitty and if they want to leave the cage to stretch and roam, we allow them that freedom. I play with them if they are interested, I pet them and talk to them and try to make them feel comfortable in their new surroundings. We have a variety of personalities, some loving, some scaredy cats, and some with medical needs. Our goal is to acclimate all of our cats and kittens and help those that need special attention.
After everyone is fed and watered and back in their cage, I fill out a log for each cat, recording their dirt box habits, whether they ate, and make any special notes like “really love this girl!” or “doesn’t play well with others”, etc. Then I wipe down the outside of the cages with disinfectant, gather up the trash, lock up and leave. In total it can take between 1 -1.5 hours. Not a huge commitment to keep the mission moving.
So how did my “No cat” decision go? I’m sure you’ve guessed by now. There was an adult pair, mother and daughter, who were months-long veterans of the cage. I would let them out to wander and stretch, and I’d cry when I put them back in their cage. I told my husband we might have to bring them home. When he met them, the mother hopped right up in my husband's lap and started licking him and that was it. Carrie and Emma came home with us. They’ve been with us almost 6 years.
Give volunteering for Stray Cat Blues at try. There are many other ways to support Stray Cat Blues beyond cage cleaning. In fact, we have opportunities even if you are allergic or don’t like cats…LOL! If you have some time to spare time, inquire further. Volunteering is a purpose and a feeling that you’re doing something worthwhile, and who knows, maybe a new furry friend.
Leslie F., Cage Cleaner
If you are interested in volunteering, please visit our volunteer page.
