Feeding Frenzy

If you happen to be out at HSAPL’s feline sanctuary at 8:30 on a Friday morning, you may think the Cat Whisperer has dropped by for a visit—two Cat Whisperers, actually.  Brenda and Gloria, both volunteers, never fail to attract a crowd of about a dozen cats when they step into the campground to begin their morning feeding.  With ears perked and tails waving happily in anticipation, the crowd of cats follows the ladies in a friendly feeding frenzy to oversee the preparation of their breakfast.

Gloria is a 2-year veteran of the drill and comes twice a week, devoting anywhere from 3-8 hours at a time to the care and feeding of her “babies”.  Brenda joined her about 8 months ago on Fridays and sometimes shows up on Tuesdays as well.  Both ladies are filled with energy and enthusiasm, despite the cold mornings or hot, sticky afternoons outdoors that are part of Florida’s unpredictable weather.

Although their work is accompanied by much laughter, “conversations” with the cats, and even singing, both women are actually doing serious socializing during the time they spend at the sanctuary.  When asked why she chose this area of volunteer work, Gloria responded, “I truly feel that I make a difference with the 150 cats that we have and most [of them] will probably never know another home.  My favorite part is, of course, socializing the babies and watching the ferals become sweetie-pies.”  Brenda expressed similar feelings, “The progress the cats are making is [happening] right before our very eyes.  You can see them trying to figure out how to trust us!  . . .Many of them were pets at one time, and since they don’t currently have a forever home, our human contact . . .is making them trust and love people again!”

Such dedication to HSAPL’s mission of helping cats in need is what has enabled the organization to succeed.  Cats who came to us as frightened, skinny orphans, now join the throng of happy kitties who follow the ladies around, seeking breakfast and perhaps a little scratch under the chin.  Carry on, ladies!  We are fortunate to have such cat whisperers as part of our team!

To learn more about volunteer opportunities with HSAPL, please call 772-463-7386