Deirdre Campbell, Caithness Branch Coordinator for Cat Protection, at a 2019 fundraiser.
A cat charity is looking for volunteers who can help give unwanted cats “a second chance in life”.
Cats Protection’s (CP) Caithness division would like to hear from people who can help in a number of roles – such as: B. Nurses, drivers, fundraisers and administrators.
Volunteers are also required to perform trapping, neuter and return (TNR) work to manage wildcat numbers.
Branch Coordinator Deirdre Campbell said, “I want to encourage all local people who love cats and help the charity to consider helping us by filling one of the vacant roles.
“Volunteering for CP is a rewarding experience as it gives you the opportunity to be part of a truly rewarding cause. The volunteers are very happy to give unwanted cats a second chance in life. So if this is of interest please contact us. “
Caregivers look after cats and kittens in need in a garden shed provided by CP or in a special room in their house until the foster cat has found its perfect home, Deirdre said. She said it was hands-on work and very rewarding.
“We also need people who can occasionally take the cats to the vets or to their new homes, either in their own car or in one of our branch cars,” she added.
Branch transporters are often used by wild cats during TNR. Deirdre explained that neutering, screening, and returning cats like this one is not only a humane way to manage them, but also ensures a healthy and stable local population and reduces its impact on nearby residents.
The branch also needs to recruit fundraisers. Kerri Ronaldson, from the fundraising team, said, “We need people to become part of our fundraising team. This way we can continue our work on site and help cats and owners.
“Although Covid-19 means that much of our fundraising drives are currently online or virtual, the role is diverse and includes organizing sweepstakes, attending festivals and fairs – if restrictions allow – and helping local businesses.”
Because the charity has implemented a “hands-free homing” process to minimize the risk of Covid, the branch needs staff who can help with a variety of administrative tasks, including virtual meetings.
Deirdre added, “We’re sure anyone who takes on any of these roles will find them incredibly rewarding. It’s also a great way to make new friends – both humans and cats! “
For all roles, CP will provide equipment, training, and support, and there are Covid protocols for all volunteers.
The Caithness office is part of a national network of more than 250 volunteer offices and 34 centers that help around 190,000 cats and kittens annually
Anyone interested in learning more about volunteering at the Caithness office should email bsunorth@cats.org.uk or call 03000 12 12 12.