Purrs In Our Hearts - Cat Forum UK

Cat Rescue & Rehoming => The Rescue Room => Topic started by: Teresa Pawcats on August 07, 2007, 02:00:42 AM

Title: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Teresa Pawcats on August 07, 2007, 02:00:42 AM: Running a Rescue is easy or at least most folks seem to think so; I`ve lost count of the times I have been told how lucky I am to sit and cuddle kittens all day while I wait and be grateful for the next unwanted love to be brought here to fill my never ending supply of available pens. In reality I began with 5 pens which simply wasnt enough,so we put up more and more still not enough,a spare bedroom was converted to a catroom,the office always manages to accomodate some golden oldie,theres a collapsible pen in the kitchen we share our house with Buster,Tula, Fuchsia,Ivan,Cat,Chat,Anastasia,Minimopsical and Tabasco,our greenhouse sleeps Hettie,Monica, Wilma,and Madison and is the feeding station for some 15 regular ferals. We are currently caring for 50 cats/kittens.
My day started just before 5am on Wednesday 1st August with the usual scrubbing out of pens,litter trays cleaning and feeding and yes of course the cuddling of cats. By 11am I was in the vets with Amelia who was in labour and having problems and I had the pleasure of a kitten being born in my car on the way home, spent the bulk of the day checking Amelia and helping deliver afterbirth which was stuck inside her as well as dashing round with the poop scoop and attempting to answer the endless ringing of the phone.
Think at around 8pm I took an urgent cry for help with ferals in Manchester and put an appeal out on forum for help; checked cats loaded car with equipment and off we went. Stayed all night trapping,home 7am -10 am to clean and feed and of course cuddle cats;then back to trapping in Manchester,dont need to tell that part its all written about on forum;what I will say what a rollercoaster ride,tears,joy,heartbreak that will not go away.Back home Thursday afternoon to an emergency call out to kittens supposedly found in a bag,they are 3 days old seriously dehydrated and in a bad way,I give them fluids in the car.
Back home for cleaning feeding and then off to Manchester again in a vain attempt to catch the kitten,think we gave up after midnight. I cant go to bed I have tiny babies who need hourly feeding so yet another day is one long continuation of Wednesday;on top of usual jobs have an hours journey to Congleton to try and trap a feral mother,then home to attend to cats and then back to Manchester, bottling feeding kittens in the car,poor babies have been on 4 feral trappings already.
Saturday continued much the same way except I had help from Claire and 2 grandchildren to entertain,family can be strange you know they seem to think they should come first yet people with cats think cats should come first;I end up feeling like a punch bag wanting to keep everyone happy.The rest of the weekend is totally lost to me as I have been caring for my fosters and nursing a very sick kitten who needed a Sunday call out as well as an appointment today. I know I havent seen my bed since 5am last Wednesday,I have had a total of 6 hours in catnaps and I`m sitting here cuddling a kitten because by morning he will be at the Bridge.
Still think its easy? why not give it a try,offer to help at your local rescue; chances are - like me you`ll end up starting your own.

Cos we all know how easy it is
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Pinkbear (Julie) on August 07, 2007, 04:15:06 AM: I don't know what to say to you, but I know I need to say something, so here goes an attempt...

Love is what separates good from evil. With the love that you've shown and the sacrifices you've made, you've taken us ALL one step back from the madness and the chaos. Without you, and people like you, Teresa, humanity is damned.

And don't think that acts of mercy, courage and sacrifice go unnoticed, because they don't. Life always balances, although you may not think it now - it'll come in the shape of something quite unexpected, I'm sure.

Take care, Teresa. You are never alone really, you know... :sneaky:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on August 07, 2007, 07:44:46 AM: I hope that this makes people realise just how hard doing rescue work can be - as Ela said on a different thread, even fosters dont always truly know the extent of things, and one man bands do have things a lot harder than other rescues. At least with people like you and Dawn posting on forums, it shows everyone what things are like, even if we can't truly understand the heartache, as I dont think you can unless you have experienced it. So thank you for sharing, and we are all here to support you, and people like you.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Sabrina (Auferstehen) on August 07, 2007, 09:04:03 AM: Quote from: Pinkbear on August 07, 2007, 04:15:06 AM
Take care, Teresa. You are never alone really, you know... :sneaky:

Couldn't have said it better myself.

I've only done a bit of rescue work in the US for 3 months when I was a teen and every day I went home in tears and after the summer was over I had to go back to school. It was a no kill shelter thankfully, I would have snuck out all the animals if it had been the other kind.

Fostering so far has been rewarding and I hope to keep doing it, though my heart will break when these two kittens finally get a home.

Still, we know you guys go above and beyond when it comes to the cats and for that you're all amazing.

Now someone please remind me to get a box of tissues for my desk! I'm constantly here in tears without a blasted kleenex ;)
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Teresa Pawcats on August 07, 2007, 10:35:48 AM: Been up all night cuddling Minbuster,he went to the Rainbow Bridge this morning;his sister is a little brighter; do I sit and grieve NO, I`ve cuddled every cat that wanted it this morning and Thanked God for their little lives and present health and happiness.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on August 07, 2007, 11:02:01 AM: T, I'm sorry he couldn't be helped but as I said last night we can't work miracles no matter how hard we try. He'll be on the bridge now with my 2 little ones, and they can grow stronger together.

Take care hun, and you know where I am if you need me, xx

:RIP: little ones and sweet dreams, xxxx
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Kittybabe (Ruth) on August 07, 2007, 11:09:10 AM: I've seen first hand like other on here what you do every day Teresa and even then there is no way I can appreciate the hours that you put into the care of these little ones. Not to mention the emotions.

I saw what you were like with poor Cringle, and the love you give Anastasia (by the way Pav is still so in love...) who poor mite has been dealt a hard blow and still all she wants is a lap to cuddle.

That's all down to you.

Yes people do think about how great it is to cuddle them, to be fair, that's what we visitors do, give them a cuddle. We have no real idea T. We really don't until we have to live in your shoes.

You know I am one of your biggest supporters and will do anything I can to help. I only wish I lived nearer to help lighten the burden of some of the routine things you need to do every day.

:hug: :hug: :hug:

RIP little one xx
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: MBll on August 07, 2007, 13:07:14 PM: I dont know what to say on this, i know rescue is hard fustrating work more so on the human side. Im so sorry about minbuster :'(
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Teresa Pawcats on August 07, 2007, 13:42:49 PM: Well just had the vet round to do 11 vaccinations, Busters monthly jab and check on all else.
In some respects things were good he is pleased with the progress all have made including Angelica but now says that he hopes for my sake its not fading kitten syndrome.He says it could be something passed on from mum.
Worst news of all, Isabella,I knew she was pregnant and she is currently sharing a pen with her 2 kittens Larry and Rory, the plan was to split them next week when Jessica goes to her new home as I thought babies would be a couple of weeks away; Andy`s just examined her and feels that my midwifery skills may be needed in next few days,so here I am pen juggling again.
Life is never dull and I dont know the meaning of the word bored and there are thousands of people all over the country in just the same boat as me. I feel better for getting it all off my chest instead of bottling it up.
Thanks for all the support :Luv:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Christine (Blip) on August 07, 2007, 17:39:43 PM: Quote from: Auferstehen on August 07, 2007, 09:04:03 AM
Quote from: Pinkbear on August 07, 2007, 04:15:06 AM
Take care, Teresa. You are never alone really, you know... :sneaky:

Couldn't have said it better myself.

Nor could I.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Tan on August 07, 2007, 19:51:56 PM: T you are one of our and to be quite honest the Worlds angels on earth. I love and have sooo much respect for you T and all the rescues on Purrs and everywhere. Yours and their devotion, the total love and care you give uncondisionally to every babe with no thought to yourselves, the time the engery every day every hour purely for thier happiness. You in rescue are my heros and always will be. I am soo proud to know you. :Luv: :Luv: :Luv: :Luv:

This is exactly why Purrs is here for wonderful people in rescue like yourself any many more on here and anyothers we can help. I get such a buzz to have set this up and with all of our absolutely fantasic members raised money to help angels like you cause that's something we can do, we can help take some of the strain of finding funds away. We can be here for support whenever any of you need it.

Thank you all of you for being who you are. :Luv: :Luv: :Luv: :Luv: :Luv: :Luv:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Christine (Blip) on August 07, 2007, 19:57:04 PM: Quote from: Tan on August 07, 2007, 19:51:56 PM
I am soo proud to know you. :Luv: :Luv: :Luv: :Luv:

And I couldnt have put that better, either :Luv:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Kittybabe (Ruth) on August 07, 2007, 19:58:00 PM: Quote from: Christine (Blip) on August 07, 2007, 19:57:04 PM
Quote from: Tan on August 07, 2007, 19:51:56 PM
I am soo proud to know you. :Luv: :Luv: :Luv: :Luv:

And I couldnt have put that better, either :Luv:

That goes for me too. We love you T xxx
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Gill (sneakiefeline) on August 07, 2007, 23:00:59 PM: I third that :hug: :hug:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Teresa Pawcats on August 08, 2007, 08:52:59 AM: I feel embarassed now; thank you all for your support. I do feel better now.

Like so many others I`m just a very ordinary person trying to make a difference.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Ela on August 10, 2007, 09:12:54 AM: Quote
Like so many others I`m just a very ordinary person trying to make a difference.

Just like the poem I have posted a couple of times and is on my site:-

IT MATTERS
As I walked along the seashore
This young boy greeted me.
He was tossing stranded starfish
Back to the deep blue sea.
I said "Tell me why you bother,
Why you waste your time this way.
There's a million stranded starfish
Does it matter, anyway?"
And he said, "It matters to this one.
It deserves a chance to grow.
It matters to this one.
I can't save them all I know.
But it matters to this one,
I'll return it to the sea.
It matters to this one,
And it matters to me."
I walked into the shelter,
Ginny greeted me.
She was helping Hope learn to trust.
She was struggling I could see.
I said, "Tell me why you bother,
Why you waste your time this way.
Hope's only one of thousands,
Does it matter anyway?"
And she said, "It matters to this one.
She deserves a chance to grow.
It matters to this one.
I can't save them all I know.
But it matters to this one,
I'll help her be what she can be.
It matters to this one,
And it matters to me
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Ellie on August 23, 2007, 09:12:59 AM: Just found this thread T and I think you are one in a million :hug:

Unlike some rescues that have funds and support from headoffice (bet I get slated for that but he ho) you have to find every penny by yourself. I don't know how you do it but there are thousands of wee furbabes out there who are so pleased you do :hug:

Susan calls you the cat's Fairy Godmother :Luv:

As the others have said we love you T :hug: :hug:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Ela on August 24, 2007, 22:07:27 PM: Quote
Unlike some rescues that have funds and support from headoffice (bet I get slated for that but he ho

Not at all, as long as you realize that last year we spent over £49.000 and receved from Head office enought to pay less than one weeks vet bills. The rest well over £48.000 we had to raise ourselves.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: ccmacey on August 25, 2007, 10:37:29 AM: I don't believe running a rescue is easy, not when its concerning the things you love the most, there are hard decisions to make and lots of heartache to take too.

I think all you lovely people that do rescue are wonderfull, where would all those kittys be without you.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Bazsmum on August 25, 2007, 17:34:14 PM: Quote from: ccmacey on August 25, 2007, 10:37:29 AM
I think all you lovely people that do rescue are wonderfull, where would all those kittys be without you.

Here, here!

Your all worth your weight in gold :Luv: :Luv: :Luv:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: JackSpratt on August 28, 2007, 19:10:59 PM: I don't normally read this section, not being part of any specific rescue.

But I just wanted to say, Teresa I don't think it's easy. I think all you people do an amazing job and it must hurt like hell when you lose one of your rescues.

I get up daily at 8am to give my little Junkie his jab, whilst trying to pacify my Old Mog. The other two aren't amazingly demanding, but this means I have to make more of an effort to ensure they know they're loved! (If you can understand what I mean by that!) The kitten that I got off Freecycle (because I was worried where she'd end up!) is currently causing havoc....climbing curtains, jumping on my older cats backs....you get the idea! And this is for cats that I consider to be my family - even then it can sometimes be tough going. So for you to do what you do....well, I can't say it enough.

I think you're all amazing!
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: lisa77 on September 13, 2007, 12:03:47 PM: I take my hat off to you. You do such a wonderful job.... :hug:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Andrew on November 25, 2007, 20:42:13 PM: It is NEVER easy to run a rescue, especially with Paws Inn, without any umbrella above it... To be honest, I don't think many people can do it, be it financial reason, emotion, dedication etc.

I don't know Teresa well but I know she has a great depth of knowledge regarding cats and I know she is very busy with the rescue most of the time.. It's not like sitting in an office doing paper works all the time or cuddling cats all the time... Teresa literally has to do EVERYTHING... from all the bookkeeping, driving to the vets, hand rearing, cleaning, taking phone calls, worrying about where the money will come from, feeding, giving pills etc.. And it is not like she can just sleep for 8 hours a night and leave everything in the morning -- cats aren't only sick during daytime..

It saddens me that she has only one volunteer over the weekends. It also surprised me that the local rescue centre only charged me 50 pounds for my two cats. I calculated -- vaccinations, wormers, vet bills, food and accommodation in Mount Noddy, it was surely more than 50 quid for two cats. I gave more. I felt rather sad if not angry that that seems to be the 'market' price as if they charge more, it will discourage people from adopting.. I do not understand in any way that why people don't pay a bit more toward rescue centres when getting animals..

And there are people saying the same thing to Teresa that 'it's easy to do a rescue because all you do is to cuddle the cats everyday and night'. Sometimes I wonder if they are nutters.. Another mentality I can't stand is those who say things like 'there are enough dying children in Africa already, why help cats?' I can only reply those who do not care about animals do not care about dying children in Africa.

For someone like Teresa (Dawn, Ela and others), they have my deepest respect. They do everything themselves and not just sitting around and doing bits here and there.

Teresa, you're doing a wonderful job and without you, I don't know what the world would be like.

Andrew
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on November 26, 2007, 08:24:27 AM: Here here Andrew - we ask a £35 donation as we daren't increase it in case it puts people off, we get very few people give more (can only think of 1 when I went through last years adoption papers, and nobody who has adopted my fosters this year has given more, although one has said they will in the future), and that nowhere near covers things, even with Gift Aid on - we are lucky we are registered and have perks like Gift Aid, I can't imagine how hard it must be if you can't set an adoption fee or have 'extra's like that.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn F on November 26, 2007, 13:27:39 PM: do you really think that would put people off Des? We paid 65 for each of ours
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: LesleyW on November 26, 2007, 13:41:45 PM: The money side is awful. I ask £60 for a re-homing donation. I know it seems alot but I get them vaccinated, microchipped, de-flead, de-wormed, veterinary health checked and if old enough, they are neutered. Most of my kittens come to me at a couple of days old so it is intensive care, and there are so many that need extra medical care on top of the normal.

My hubby says if people are not prepared to pay this they should not have a kitty as this is not extortionate and shows they are committed pet owners, but it does put some people off.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Teresa Pawcats on November 26, 2007, 13:58:58 PM: :rofl:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: puddypaws on November 26, 2007, 14:01:04 PM: One thing you are not T is an ordinary person You are very special and so are all the others who spend so much of their lives caring for these poor cats. :Luv:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on November 26, 2007, 14:02:13 PM: I don't set a charge, I ask for a voluntary donation and keep my fingers crossed that they realise how much I pay out and how much my vet bills amount to. Sometimes people do take the mick though and I remember rehoming Cleo and Holly a couple of xmas's ago, they were vaccinated, wormed and deflead and I spent about £20 on fuel and the lady gave me £5......what a :censored: cheek, I did get these babes back though ;) I get a lot of people moaning about the cost local rescues charge for cats/kittens but I do tell them that it would cost more than that if they did everything themselves. I think the only time where I have my doubts about set prices, is when you have 2 in together, if they charge £65 per cat/kitten, I think these animals are more likely to be split as people can't or won't pay £130 for 2 cats/kittens. Sometimes I've been put off taking them into the rescue if I've been chocca and squeezing them in here myself because I know they are likely to split them which to me isn't in the best interest of the cat.......they say, we will try and keep them together but can't guarantee it :sneaky:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Teresa Pawcats on November 26, 2007, 14:11:59 PM: :rofl:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: LesleyW on November 26, 2007, 14:17:28 PM: Unfortunately, as I state in my leaflets I give to people, I have to make a charge otherwise hubby would not let me do this. I find that genuine prospective owners do not mind paying and multiple cats does not seem to bother them - I had one family come to look for two kittens and actually reserved four! and never flinched at paying the full donation for all of them.

I hate the money side but I think I am fortunate that here in the South people are more willing to pay. I do not think of it as payment, maybe that is naive of me, I think of it as contributing to the continuance of the rescue.

Some owners send me Christmas donations every year and drop food etc off during the year.

The other fact down here is people are selling kittens on pet shop noticeboards and some of the on line "stickybush" sites for over £100 with no vaccinations or anything so for the donation I am asking for I hope they consider they are getting a good, healthy kitten.

I now feel a bit awful charging what I do, after reading the other posts, but I honestly could not keep going if it were not for these funds and I certainly couldn't hope to keep the long term residents up to date with the medical requirements.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Gill (sneakiefeline) on November 26, 2007, 14:22:37 PM: I think Lesley has a good point about location and know around here they will charge a donation for dogs but not for cats, cos nobody will pay to take a cat on here, which is very sad.

Yes in the south of england I am sure its easier to get the donations and each rescue has to look at what they can do where they live, there is no right and wrong.

I love all you rescues and the number os cats you help is an inspiration :hug:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn F on November 26, 2007, 14:28:34 PM: I think we definately looked on the money as something we owed the rescue for feeding, spaying and vaccinating our babes before we knew them, we are in a fortunate position I suppose and didn't really think too much about the cost I know that pet shops locally charge just as much for kittens
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on November 26, 2007, 14:38:13 PM: Quote from: Lesley (Eight Lives Left Kitten Rescue) on November 26, 2007, 14:17:28 PM

I now feel a bit awful charging what I do, after reading the other posts, but I honestly could not keep going if it were not for these funds and I certainly couldn't hope to keep the long term residents up to date with the medical requirements.

Lesley :slap: how dare you feel awful :sneaky: Money doesn't grow on trees, the money has to come from somewhere and I honestly don't think people realise how much we go into debt to help these cats. Apart from vet bills, you have to cover fuel costs.......mine are horrendous and some weeks I put in well over £100 with running back and too doing trapping, you have flea treatments, worming treatment, food, cat litter etc etc........where does it all come from if you can't get donations!! I don't get any help whatsoever with the cats, now and again if I'm lucky my kids will top up a food dish :tired: I don't get any sleep and I go to sleep thinking about cats, dream about cats and wake up thinking about cats and worry about my bills.......I always say rescue will be the death of me and I have a horrible feeling it will :shify:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Teresa Pawcats on November 26, 2007, 14:49:32 PM: :rofl:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: MBll on November 26, 2007, 21:02:24 PM: Jan from cupar animal trust shelter would say ...the 'donation' is not for buying a cat/kitten or other animal its to help keep the rescue running ....you could look at it that way.

I think the word 'donation' would confuse folk as a donation would be what 'they' want to pay but its 'fixed' by the rescue so probably the wrong word to use if im puting this over right?
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: LesleyW on November 26, 2007, 21:04:22 PM: I see it exactly how Jan does then.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on November 26, 2007, 21:06:25 PM: Definitely, the donation side of things is to help pay towards all the cats that are still currently in your care, not the one's that you've rehomed.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on November 26, 2007, 21:09:47 PM: Dawn, I personally dont, but i dont set the rules, I personally think we could ask for more, as I point out to people who get females, if they had to pay for the neutering alone at my vets, it would be more than the adoption fee, and a male is only slightly less - we cover neutering on kittens, all they have to do is mention us when booking in and take their adoption paper.
I do hate asking for money though, and it is even worse now we can't accept cheques (sadly, we had a few bounce last year), as you have to bring it up, and I have covered part of a couple myself when I have known it would be a good home - I am proof that not having money for adoption fees doesn't mean no money for vets. I am iffy about asking for donations when people drop cats off as well, would much rather fundraise.
I like Jan's way of looking at it, very true - if we dont have the funds, we can't help the cats.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: MBll on November 26, 2007, 21:23:07 PM: When folk are willing to reply to ads with kittens selling at £60, £80, £100, £150, £200 & £220 these are moggies ...then there should not be any issues with rescues. Yeah i have seen these ads
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on November 26, 2007, 21:24:53 PM: Never thought of that RR, might mention it when I am at the rescue tomorrow.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: MBll on November 26, 2007, 21:29:55 PM: Just want to add here .... there are rescues that take a 'donation' from folk that hand in their animals aswell as rehoming/keeping the rescue going....ponderosa in leeds iv been told do also edniburgh cat & dog home......in my oppinon i see that as necessary & right.

Especialy for the small rescues ...which i think are hell of a lot more in need
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on November 26, 2007, 21:32:08 PM: The person I foster for says she should start doing that, but I can't bring myself to do it, so the lady who dropped Marmalade off just gave me her bowls, food and carrier, I didn't ask for anything else (she is spayed, wormed and de-flead though, which is a help).
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Gill (sneakiefeline) on November 26, 2007, 21:33:53 PM: I think that woud just mean more cats dumped and therefore more expense and heartbreak for cats and their rescuers
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on November 26, 2007, 21:36:02 PM: I think it depends on the reason for giving them up, the bloke I had on the phone last month wouldnt even get his cat neutered while he was on the waiting list, cos he didn't want to spend money on something he didn't want. Some definitely would though, although I have been promised money more than once for helping out and it has never happened.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: LesleyW on November 26, 2007, 21:41:28 PM: I never ask for a donation from people who bring kittens and cats to me but, surprisingly, they often offer money or food, litter, baskets, toys etc. I even had one family who asked me to take a mum and her five kittens who had moved into their garage and they gave me a donation of £50 to cover the cost of spaying the mum, which I thought was really good of them as it was obvious it was not their cat but just a visitor.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on November 26, 2007, 21:41:58 PM: I took in a black/white girl called Jasmine from the vets earlier on in the year. I made the lady give me a donation........she had taken her in to be pts, and she was a heartless :censored: , I was fuming and thought there was no way she was getting away with it. I would have taken her anyway but she was treating her like you would treat garbage and she would have had to have paid for euthanasia anyway.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Teresa Pawcats on November 26, 2007, 21:42:36 PM: :rofl:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on November 26, 2007, 21:45:28 PM: I dont know T, but the problem is you dont find out for a while due to the time it takes for cheques to clear. I am sorry you are unhappy with the way the thread has turned out though. I dont think any rescues are about money, but sadly it is a necessary part of looking after animals.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on November 26, 2007, 22:14:48 PM: Quote from: Desley (booktigger) on November 26, 2007, 21:45:28 PM
I dont think any rescues are about money, but sadly it is a necessary part of looking after animals.

I totally agree Des. I'm sorry T but it would be great if we could all rely on the good lord but you know as well as I do that that is a load of nonsense, he doesn't pay my bills. I know things usually work out in the end but without the fantastic peeps on Purrs and others, dipping into their pockets to help us out financially and also donations from cats we rehome, that is the only reason us rescues can keep going. I do good work, I go without, my kids go without but I still worry from day to day where the money is going to come from to pay for it all. I don't go on holiday, I don't go out anywhere other than when it's to with cats, I don't buy new clothes for myself unless I need them......most of my jeans at the moment have knackered zips on them, has the good lord provided me with any more, no. I'm sorry for sounding off but we need money to function, without it we can't do what we're doing, we can't feed them with nothing!!
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: LesleyW on November 26, 2007, 22:24:56 PM: I am totally with you there Dawn, I had to try on four pairs of jeans this morning before I found a pair that actually did up probably and they have a hole in the knee, but I made sure I paid the Vets bill this evening so I could pick up George's medicine. I would love to say I could do rescue without charging anyone for a kitten but for me that is a fantasy and, whether I liked it or not, the kittens would ultimately suffer, I can't magic up money from nowhere to pay for medical necessities, food, etc, etc.

We are always stating on this site that people should not advertise cats as "free to good Home" as it encourages the wrong type of person. Could this not be said to be the same with regard to rescues.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on November 26, 2007, 22:27:11 PM: Quote from: Lesley (Eight Lives Left Kitten Rescue) on November 26, 2007, 22:24:56 PM
I am totally with you there Dawn, I had to try on four pairs of jeans this morning before I found a pair that actually did up probably

None of mine actually do up :-[
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: LesleyW on November 26, 2007, 22:28:22 PM: Yeah, but my hubby says your backside looks good in them. :rofl: :rofl:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Christine (Blip) on November 26, 2007, 22:29:21 PM: Quote from: Lesley (Eight Lives Left Kitten Rescue) on November 26, 2007, 22:24:56 PM
We are always stating on this site that people should not advertise cats as "free to good Home" as it encourages the wrong type of person. Could this not be said to be the same with regard to rescues.

I am sure that all responsible rescues vet every prospective home very carefully.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on November 26, 2007, 22:30:11 PM: Quote from: Lesley (Eight Lives Left Kitten Rescue) on November 26, 2007, 22:28:22 PM
Yeah, but my hubby says your backside looks good in them. :rofl: :rofl:

Tell him thank you :bum:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: MBll on November 26, 2007, 22:30:21 PM: Teresa, well look at it this way.....this 'donation' goes towards....food....vet bills, worming, defleaing, petrol etc etc etc etc etc etc....all which helps the rescue run as without it you can do nothing.....your not selling anything.

Helping stray and abandoned animals in rescue care means that you need 'donations' how can you provide food, vet bills etc without this? Yes ok so you take money out of your own pocket but theres is a limit to this as you cant do this permanent. And if your waiting for the 'good lord' to provide assistance to you then dont hold ya breath.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Gill (sneakiefeline) on November 26, 2007, 22:34:23 PM: I think Teresa is more than well aware of what running a rescue means and entails ;D

I think that all rescues must do what is purrrrrrrsonally best for them in their own situation and circumstances.

There are not black and white rules that the independents on Purrs adhere to and thats why they are independents and they make their own choices as to how to the run and what is best for the cats in their care ;D

They all do a great job too :wow:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Millys Mum on November 26, 2007, 22:38:07 PM: Dont feel bad Lesley, charging what i consider a small amount (a full vax course could come to that) means you are able to help many cats a year, that otherwise would have nowhere to go :(

Quote
We are always stating on this site that people should not advertise cats as "free to good Home" as it encourages the wrong type of person. Could this not be said to be the same with regard to rescues.
I agree, if someone cant find it in their hearts/wallets to give a reasonable amount to the person who has spent £££'s getting their new pet fit and healthy, then what happens in an emergency vet visit.
Put ya money where ya mouth is i say :shy: they get the credit with friends/family for saving some poor kitty with a sad story and they pay nothing >:(
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Kittybabe (Ruth) on November 26, 2007, 22:39:17 PM: We all know rescues are in need of funds to continue the good work you all do, that's a fact and the reason this forum is alive and well today. I don't feel that there is a need to debate what each rescuer feels is their driver and motivator, whether it be money or their personal faith. Questioning what these are, in my opinion, only serves to take away from the good work people do.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Teresa Pawcats on November 26, 2007, 22:41:39 PM: :rofl:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on November 26, 2007, 22:50:53 PM: Quote from: Teresa Pawcats on November 26, 2007, 22:41:39 PM
If you choose to do Rescue what is the point of complaining about lack of clothes/holidays etc- its a fact of life and the cats dont care what a human is wearing anyway.

I don't complain apart from not having any jeans with zips in, it's getting a little cold at the moment and I hate flashing my knickers even if it is just to the vet and the cats :evillaugh: , this is something I choose to do and something I love doing, all I'm saying is we can't rely on the good lord to provide. I am quite happy going without, if I wasn't, I would have given up doing this a long time ago.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Teresa Pawcats on November 26, 2007, 22:57:27 PM: :rofl:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: MBll on November 26, 2007, 23:02:59 PM: Teresa im not aware that i was .
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: madkittyrescue on November 27, 2007, 11:17:47 AM: Quote from: RatiesRule on November 26, 2007, 21:02:24 PM
Jan from cupar animal trust shelter would say ...the 'donation' is not for buying a cat/kitten or other animal its to help keep the rescue running ....you could look at it that way.

I kinda not up to date on following this thread folks.... and don't beat me up for saying this... but I think that this topic is kinda getting a bit off track and 'squabbling' over donation policies is irrelevant.

Each rescue has to do what is right for them to be able to keep going.

Ratie - Yes you are right... we do have fixed donation and our homing form / contract states this as well as notices throughout our premises. These clearly state our homing donation policy to the public that

" donation is not payment for the animal but a donation to CATS to allow us to continue our work for the needy cats in Fife and surrounding areas."

This is essential. Without it we couldn't function and any donation given is cancelled out immediately for the new owner as they have no need to neuter, vaccinate, etc etc etc. That said we could count on less than 1 hand the number of people who quibble this.

On committee approval we can reduce the fixed donation for instances where people are taking more than 1 cat.

But.... again our own particular policy is irrelevant to other rescues (who charge more than we do in our area). Trying to get a moggy kitten in the ads papers in central scotland will cost you £100 + :doh:

If Teresa can find a way to manage her funds so that she can stay open, help cats and find them homes without having to set a fixed donation ... then great! ;D

If other rescues or independents need that extra funds then do it.... and don't feel guilty about it. ;)

It is good business sense to run an organisation with a mind set for obtianing a regular cash flow. :)

So, please don't point the fingers at others who do or don't charge. Its not about putting a price on an animals head its about using common sense to ensure you can keep the organisation going and if you can do that without charging ... then fabulous. ;)

Lets just concentrate on what's important.... the great job that all the rescues do for the cats who need us ;D
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Ela on November 28, 2007, 05:28:22 AM: Quote
It also surprised me that the local rescue centre only charged me 50 pounds for my two cats.

Cats Protection branches are not allowed to charge but they can ask for a minimum donation. I think unless it is suggested some people are just so excited when they are to get a little one that they tend to forget. Although on the adoption form it does have a little box to put the amount in, but as they seem to miss out other bits as well perhaps it is just an oversite. I know some branches, have strict rule no donation, no cat but with us a good home is far more important than a donation, although I have to be as sure as I can that the little one can be afforded they lifestyle it have come accustomed to with us. All our cats are homed Chipped. flead, wormed, injected and all those 6 months and over neutered/spayed.

Quote
I think the word 'donation' would confuse folk as a donation would be what 'they' want to pay but its 'fixed' by the rescue so probably the wrong word to use if im puting this over right

Registered charities can claim ‘Gift Aid’ (28p in the pound for the tax man on donations by tax payers). I am not sure we would be able to claim that if we sold cats for a fixed fee.

I have to say that I fully understand why Leslie needs to charge, quite simply she would be unable to help the little ones if she didn't.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: radcliffeanimalhelp-han on December 29, 2007, 17:25:24 PM: I UNDERSTAND COMPLETELY WE RUN A HOME RESCUE AND HOUSE AT THE MOMENNT 6 CATS 2 DOGS AND ABOUT 8 RABBITS IT DOESNT SOUND ALOT BUT FOR A 3BEDROOMED TERRACE HOUSE....ITS HARD THERE ARE ONLY 2 OF US THAT DO IT AND I WOULDNT CHANGE IT FOR THE WORLD WE HAVE 2 FERRALS IN AND ITS MAD...BITES N SCRATCHES N ALL ITS SO REWARDING I WOULDN'T CHANGE IT FOR THE WORLD :]
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: JackSpratt on February 24, 2008, 22:28:18 PM: Blimey! I've not been in this section for a while, but there seems to have been a huge spectrum of opinions on here.

I figure each rescue knows which way works best for them personally - and at the end of the day, I wouldn't have a clue how to go about what DD, Lesley or Teresa do.

I admire each person that is either involved in or runs a rescue because they're all amazing; and are regularly quite literally lifesavers.

:)
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: CurlyCatz on February 27, 2008, 15:52:34 PM: I agree with you JS

I am of mixed opinion...the rgt (dogs) had an optional donation, at the time i would have preferred a fixed price as i didn't have loads of money but could offer a greyhound a very good home, at the same time i would not have wanted to show myself up by offerering a pitence. I gave them 75quid for my first grey and the man was bowled over, some folks dont bother giving anything others give a fiver he told me :scared:

Is it possible to have some sort of guideline donation figure but "at new owners to be discretion ? "

Felt abit bad reading some peeps beliefs being knocked though, abit uncalled for imo and each to their own.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on February 27, 2008, 19:32:23 PM: Quote from: Teresa Pawcats on November 26, 2007, 22:57:27 PM
:rofl:

Why have most of the posts been deleted and edited with smileys :Crazy: :Crazy:

Quote from: CurlyCatz on February 27, 2008, 15:52:34 PM
Felt abit bad reading some peeps beliefs being knocked though, abit uncalled for imo and each to their own.

Probably because most of the thread is deleted, so the whole context of the thread has now changed.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Teresa Pawcats on February 27, 2008, 19:44:34 PM: Quote from: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on February 27, 2008, 19:32:23 PM
Quote from: Teresa Pawcats on November 26, 2007, 22:57:27 PM
:rofl:

Why have most of the posts been deleted and edited with smileys :Crazy: :Crazy:

[

I am a little busy caring for my cats at present but will be happy to provide an explanation when I have a little more time.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Teresa Pawcats on February 27, 2008, 21:46:27 PM: Sorry for the delay only I had to dash off to attend to a new rescue.

I decided to delete my posts because they were quite simply off topic of the original thread which I began which concerned the emotive and stressful side of rescue.
When I deleted I got message saying message blank so thought I would put a happy face in to cheer everyone up :)
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on February 28, 2008, 01:20:26 AM: Quote from: Teresa Pawcats on February 27, 2008, 21:46:27 PM
I decided to delete my posts because they were quite simply off topic of the original thread which I began which concerned the emotive and stressful side of rescue.
When I deleted I got message saying message blank so thought I would put a happy face in to cheer everyone up :)

I can't see how it was off topic somehow, financing rescue is also stressful so it is all part and parcel of the same thing. Putting the smiley you used had the opposite effect as it didn't quite fit in with the responses, so appeared to be mocking :tired:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: LesleyW on February 28, 2008, 20:03:14 PM: I think this thread should be deleted now because it makes no sense at all as so many of the comments have been deleted.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: ccmacey on March 15, 2008, 23:26:19 PM: My local cp lady said she asks for a donation of £50.

I dont really know about donations, I think fair enough to ask for the cost of the neutering as the new owner would have to pay it anyways. But for food already eaten then no. I think the cost of flea and wormer is ok if they have been recently done as it make sure your not bringing a cat home with these.

I do agree with rescues charging an adoption fee, I dont see how they could work propperly without it?

If a rescue does not charge this fee does that also mean they dont take donations? Same difference I guess.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on March 16, 2008, 03:54:33 AM: Quote from: ccmacey on March 15, 2008, 23:26:19 PM
I dont really know about donations, I think fair enough to ask for the cost of the neutering as the new owner would have to pay it anyways. But for food already eaten then no. I think the cost of flea and wormer is ok if they have been recently done as it make sure your not bringing a cat home with these.

If a rescue does not charge this fee does that also mean they dont take donations? Same difference I guess.

The donation helps to cover the cost of the cats that are still in your care, not for the one you've adopted. I don't charge an adoption fee but I do ask for a voluntary donation but I sometimes wonder if having a set price is the best way. I rehomed a couple a few weeks ago, I received no donation whatsoever. Within a day I was bringing one back as he just wouldn't settle and he was petrified, I then had to travel back to get him which I didn't really mind as I know he was stressed, I then got another phone call as the other hadn't been to the loo and they were getting worried :tired: It meant another journey over there and I just ended up bringing him back as I was sooooooo :censored: off as they were expecting me to do all the running about, and me ending up out of pocket >:( When I picked Toby up, I told them if I was going over to pick him up, I wanted my fuel covering, the guy asked if a tenner was alright as I'd already been over once, when I got there, he scraped together a fiver which didn't cover my fuel for the one trip, never mind the two. Some people do take the :censored: but I usually say, at the end of the day, as long as they get a good home, that's what matters but some people really want everything for nothing >:( The woman said her mother was looking for a cat and they would take on Toby, and as far as I'm concerned, no chance if she's anything like the tight :censored: daughter and son in law ;) These people were definitely taking the :censored: and they probably thought they'd got a soft touch even though I explained that everything came out of my pocket and the laugh of it is, they try to make you feel, they are doing you the favour for taking on the cats :Crazy: :Crazy:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: madkittyrescue on March 16, 2008, 09:17:28 AM: some people just always want something for nothing Dawn.

Another way to look at it too is; If they are not willing to pay a reasonable adoption donation.... does this mean that were the time to come would they stump up the cost of neutering??? i.e. if homing a kitten.

All cats we home have everything already done, no outlay for the new owners hence we never quibble over the rehoming fee. That said it is extremely rare that anyone does quibble it... possible 1 in every 50 people -ish... if that.

you're always going to bang your head on a brick wall with some people no matter how accommodating you are ;)
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Christine (Blip) on March 16, 2008, 14:46:23 PM: In some cases I do think it may be genuine lack of awareness of the costs and work involved. When we adopted Blip, I honestly did think we were doing the rescue a favour by giving her a loving home and that our donation was "extra" so that the rescue could carry on the good work. So we only gave £50 or £60. :-[

I know better now of course but I think it is probably a good idea to tell people what is involved. Then folks might be more likely to be generous - even sponsor the rescue with a regular donation each month perhaps?

Rescues with resources could do a little info sheet with FAQs to give to potential adopters. Some probably already do. For smaller rescues, I wonder if Tan could put up a similar notice on here that new adopters could be referred to?
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on March 17, 2008, 12:13:56 PM: Quote from: Christine (Blip) on March 16, 2008, 14:46:23 PM
I know better now of course but I think it is probably a good idea to tell people what is involved.

This all fell on deaf ears :tired: They had also seen Vita the Bengal on my homing page, and the guy said "Do you give Bengals away for nothing as well" >:( I should have known that they were after a freebie when he said this >:(
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: JackSpratt on March 17, 2008, 12:15:10 PM: I've never had a lot of money to give - but I have and still do have a lot of time, affection and patience. I would always like to give more but usually am unable to.

Regardless of my personal opinion on set donations, I still think you guys are all amazing. :)
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: JackSpratt on March 17, 2008, 12:15:38 PM: Quote from: Dawn (DiddyDawn) on March 17, 2008, 12:13:56 PM
"Do you give Bengals away for nothing as well" >:( I should have known that they were after a freebie when he said this >:(

Charming. :tired:
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on March 18, 2008, 08:20:21 AM: Christine, please dont feel guilty - if people didn't adopt from us, then we couldnt continue our work. I have only 'paid' for one of mine, and that was cos I did it as a surprise. I think I have more than paid for Molly's adoption fee in other ways though, and while I didn't 'pay' for Snowy, I also didn't take advantage of their offer to cover the vet care apart from her dental (and that was only cos I had just paid for Ginger's and couldn't afford both in the same month), and with her liver issues, she did cost quite a bit.
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: murtle on May 05, 2008, 10:48:56 AM: As a non rescue person, but as jo-public I am more then happy to pay a donation/set amount of money to rehome. This amount I guess will reflect the amount people in the area can afford, but if they can't afford a reasonable amount to rehome an animal, can they afford for the animal to become poorly?? In this area £60 for a kitten £100 for two, and slightly less for older cats is the *norm* and many many people pay it and are happy to, discounts can be given in certain situations!!

I see the payment, not to pay for what has been, but for what will come in the future, so it's there for the next kitten/cat that needs rescuing.

I'm sure rescue work is tiring, emotional and also very happy, each in their own amounts.

xx
Title: Re: Running a Rescue is so easy
Post by: Ela on May 08, 2008, 08:14:41 AM: Quote
I see the payment, not to pay for what has been, but for what will come in the future, so it's there for the next kitten/cat that needs rescuing.

If only more people thought like that it would be wonderful.