The folks who volunteer at S.A.R.A's really go above and beyond. As a local business owner dedicated to the ethical treatment of animals, I greatly appreciate what they do - they really go above and beyond. My family donates all of our gently used items that we no longer want to S.A.R.A.'s. Please support them!
I volunteered with S.A.R.A's last winter at their booth at the Holiday Market, and shortly thereafter visited their store on River Road. Everyone who ran the store was kind to both me and the animals in their care, knowledgeable about all aspects of their cat's lives and willing to help and answer any questions. Their store is clean and well-run despite the 10+ cats living in the store at any given time. All the furry friends there seem happy and healthy despite some having serious health issues (such as asthma), and my desire to adopt them all was through the roof!
As an adopter, I have seen first hand just how much the people at S.A.R.A. care about the animals they rescue. They take the time to explain everything they know: from a cat's medical and behavioral history to their favorite foods and toys. Before adopting, the staff helps guide you to find a cat that's compatible with what you're looking for in a pet (lap cat? playmate for your younger cat? dog friendly?), and then you sit down for an interview so you can learn everything you can about the animal you are interested in. They also provide support after you take the kitty home, calling after a few days to make sure everyone is settling in/eating okay/etc. All of their cats are obviously well cared for, and they run a thrift store (where the cats live) that raises money for their medical treatment. They even sell all of the food and supplies you need to keep your new cat happy. A great organization!
The animals are the best cared for animals in oregon. The animal's welfare always comes first. The store is very cute and has great merchandise. The store is clean as well as the area for the animals. The expense to care for these animals is very high as some require medical treatment and special food. If you want to adopt a cat, this is the place to do it!
Shelter Animal Resource Alliance (S.A.R.A.) does amazing work in our community! I have been donating to them for almost 10 years now and they work tirelessly to raise money to care for the animals the rescue from death at the shelters. They have many cats up for adoption in the thrift store and many others in foster care. I will continue to donate to them as I can directly see where my money goes by the great care they give the animals there. They are open everyday unlike most other non-profits so their animals get lots of love and attention! If you are looking for a great place to shop and donate S.A.R.A.'s is the best choice!
This appears to be a for profit business posing as a non profit. They take donations, and run a thrift store, but by their own admission, they adopt out and care for less than 20 animals a year. Does it take over $200,000 each year to care for 20 cats? If you care about animals, I'd advise donating somewhere else.
