A few months ago, I had a total of 10 Ferals in my backyard -- 4 of them born in my shed which had a closed door, but a slight opening in a seam, through which the mother was able to enter. At my old age of 90. I was desperate to get help so that I would not have any more babies. I called, in tears , all the recommended agencies that I knew of, but no one was able to help me -- ( too many cats, not enough cages, doctors too busy with an overload already ). Fortunately, one of these agencies notified Jessica of Tucson Cares asking if she could help. Jessica was already on overload with all the many needy requests to her, but kindly came right over and checked out my situation. Within the next 2 days, Jessica had crated all 10 ferals and had them neutered.
Jessica is such a lovely lady, kind and caring to me and to all the animals -- genuinely devoted to her "mission" -- for which I am forever grateful, as she has definitely made life better for me and the ferals. She came at all hours of the day and night as necessary to get this done and was so gracious and caring. In addition, Jessica had such skill with what she did that she made this difficult situation as easy as possible for me and the ferals.
The 4 babies, all black with beautiful green eyes, born in my shed, have taken up permanent residence there and have become quite tame.. I wish that someone were able to adopt them -- I have 2 dogs, so that is not for me. The others come and go to other homes on my street. Thanks to Jessica, there is peace of mind and happiness to know that this important project was accomplished.
Chris Carson
This is the best rescue in Pima County. How they accomplish so much with so little is simply amazing. The CEO is a real dynamo and puts her heart, soul and life on the line to make a genuine difference in the lives of cats and dogs that otherwise wouldn't have a happy chance at life. Tucson Cares really believes in no-kill, setting an example for others. The volunteers really network with the community and other organizations to serve the best needs of everyone. As a former volunteer, I've never seen them turn anyone away.
If you are in Tucson, stop at their boutique called Kismet. The volunteers have done a great job of pulling together charming items, vintage clothing and natural products. Every single penny goes to support the good work of this small but powerful organization.
Tucson Cares is a superb animal rescue group. The organization accomplishes so much given its small core of volunteers. The volunteers foster many wonderful dogs and cats born or abandoned on the streets and in the desert. I especially like that Tucson Cares does not wantonly euthanize animals, so I know that every animal, no matter how healthy or disabled, has a chance at a happy life.
I also discovered that Tucson Cares – by means of several well-deserved grants -- traps, spays, neuters, and then releases many feral cats back to their territories but also keeps those they think will be adoptable. The volunteers ensure that adopted animals are properly vaccinated and micro-chipped, costly practices which make their adoption fee a “bargain”. In addition, many people interrupt the volunteers with all manner of questions about stray animals or pets with behavior problems. I, myself, asked for help when our last cat was old, fragile, and failing. In my opinion, the advice offered to the public and me is sound, thoughtful, and practical and guides us through some difficult situations.
When I visited the Tucson Cares cat habitat for my second cat from them, my visit immediately made me want to adopt all the available animals because they were so approachable and well-behaved. The animals are interacted with every day and given exquisite care, so I was consoled by the knowledge that the remaining animals had a wonderful (and hopefully temporary) home.
My own two “Tucson” cats are absolutely marvelous, and I am glad I made the long drive to adopt them. The female is an adorable pest so has managed to warm the heart of my big, athletic husband whose last "little girl" died a year ago. I didn't think any kitty could replace her, but this lovable diva has won him over. The newest cat, the male, “owns” me; what a gentleman and snuggler he is! Both cats are extremely affectionate, give us lots of laughs with their clownish tumbling, and are heartwarming additions to our home. They delight us in multiple ways.
I cannot possibly give any nonprofit a better recommendation. Please donate to Tucson Cares OR adopt one of their dogs and cats into your forever home; make room for other animals in need. OR -- better yet -- DO BOTH! And, oh, I recently learned that Tucson Cares has opened a resale boutique (Kismet on Broadway) to support their animal rescue efforts. You can donate things (clothes, household, jewelry, furniture, etc.) directly at the store. On my next trip to Tucson, I will happily take some items in honor of my two kitties and those fabulous volunteers.