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Several of RAPS’ rescued cats have recently given birth, bringing the total number of cats up to 60.
Photo submitted
Kittens just keep coming
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The kittens and cats that the Regional Animal Protection Society rescued at the beginning of April have presented challenges, but have also provided a perfect example of a community coming together.
On the last day of March and the first days of April, as reported here last issue, RAPS rescued 30 adult cats and 20 kittens, in three litters, from a situation in Richmond where a well-meaning individual was feeding stray cats until the numbers got out of hand.
Already, 10 more kittens have been born since the rescue and at least four more mothers are pregnant. (The situation changes by the day. Follow our social media for the latest!) This rescue has really brought our organization back to its roots.
RAPS was founded 25 years ago—it’s our anniversary—as a few deeply dedicated volunteers who trapped and spayed/neutered feral cats in Richmond. Because we have been trapping for decades in Richmond, and while other municipalities are dealing with tens of thousands of stray feral cat colonies, Richmond rarely sees a situation like this in our city anymore because of RAPS.
Nevertheless, while we as an organization have been dealing with this influx of dozens of cats, we have been thrilled and overwhelmed by the positive, supportive reactions from people in our community. People stepped up immediately to foster the kittens and their mamas and the applications to adopt the kittens and cats have been flowing in.
The health of the cats is overwhelmingly good. Veterinarians at the RAPS Animal Hospital examined and treated the animals and staff at the RAPS Richmond Animal Shelter are assessing the personalities of the adult cats to determine suitability for their forever homes. Even so, this unexpected springtime surprise has created a burden. We estimate each animal will cost about $1,000 to care for, including veterinary treatments and routine care. This comes at a time when, like most businesses and charities, RAPS’ revenues are down. The RAPS Thrift Stores, which are an important source of revenue, are closed due to the pandemic. The RAPS Cat Sanctuary is likewise closed to the public. The Animal Shelter is open for emergency responses. The RAPS Animal Hospital, an essential service, is fully operational, with extraordinary protocols in place to limit human-to-human interactions.
As a result of this situation, we have put out a call for support. Everything we have ever done has been possible because of the support of animal-loving people in our community. Now, more than ever, this is true.
The need to help community organizations now is why Giving Tuesday has been moved up to May this year. Giving Tuesday was founded in 2011 to encourage people to consider philanthropic giving amid the commercialization of the holidays between U.S. Thanksgiving and Christmas. This year, recognizing the need of charities facing the unprecedented economic impacts of COVID-19, it has been moved to May 5.
The human world may be slowing down, with people staying home and businesses shuttered. But animals continue to need the care and support they expect and deserve. RAPS is trying to do more with less.
If you are in a position to support a local charity at this time, please take time in the coming days, in honour of Giving Tuesday, to make a contribution to a cause of your choice. We hope you might consider RAPS.
Eyal Lichtmann is CEO and executive director of the Regional Animal Protection Society.
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