The Issue: Lack of Outdoor Access for Rescued Cats

Lake County Animal Services assists more than 1,450 dogs and cats every month, yet its cat area lacks natural light and air conditioning. Under so much stress, cats become sick more easily and often go without the chance to play and show their personalities to potential adopters. The shelter’s budget is small and relies on donations, but roughly 25% of the surrounding area's population is aged 65 or older, meaning many residents live on a fixed income.

The Campaign: Building an Outdoor Play Area for Cats

If 50 people donate $10 to this Grassroots campaign, then the Petfinder Foundation can build an outdoor play area for rescued cats at Lake County Animal Services in Tavares, Florida. The play area’s fresh air, cat trees, scratchers, and toys will exercise cats’ bodies and minds while letting them engage in instinctive behaviors to help prevent stress. With the cats calmer and able to display their personalities, they are more likely to find adoptive homes. Rescue U volunteers from Florida, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, and Kentucky will help build the play area. Each additional $10 raised will go toward painting and adding enrichment elements to the indoor cat room at the shelter.