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lindaszumny

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1 reviews

Review for Animal Rescue and Adoption Society, Denver, CO, USA

Rating: 5 stars  

Vinnie and I came to the shelter around the same time - April 2011.
I was looking to volunteer my help...he was just looking for help.
The first time I saw Vinnie, the FIV+ orange tabby looked like one scruffy cat you did not want to aggravate: eyes warily assessing the new surroundings through thin slits, ears plastered against his head, crouching in a corner of the shelter, daring anyone to come close. He was unhappy and little did we know - in pain - due to infected teeth. The staff immediately brought him to the dentist who took care of Vinnie’s teeth. But his angry disgruntled behavior hung on. I couldn’t help but take in interest in this hurting little furry. At first, I was unsure if he would accept the attention but Vinnie slowly came around with some gentle scratching behind the ears, a little petting and of course, my treat bag. After 4 months of visiting with the little orange guy - he will suddenly appear at my feet in the FIV room, looking at me with wide open eyes, expecting a little love and a treat which, of course, he gets. Then he follows me around as I clean litter boxes and visit with all the other cats. I love my Vin-Muffin! Although I suspect he is cheating on me as other dedicated volunteers have invested their time with Vinnie and gotten the same results!!
Each and every one of the cats here are special and so deserving of finding a home. Vinnie is just one cat with one story. There are over 160 stories here. Some will break your heart - but the return of their love is inestimable. That is what Vinnie has taught me and what is waiting for all who enter - even if you are not looking. That furry love will find you.
The staff encourages all volunteers to get hands on with the cats and their daily care which the volunteers embrace. Successful adoptions are the result. Even though we might be losing a special friend with each adoption - one more cat has found a home.

I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...

Seeing the many successful adoptions over the past few months.

If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...

Win the lottery to help build a new shelter for the best no kill, cage free, FIV+/FELV shelter in the Rocky Mountain area: The Rocky Mountain Feline Rescue (formerly Animal Rescue & Adoption Society)

Role:  Volunteer & Volunteer at the shelter: feeding the cats, doing laundry, cleaning litter boxes, working at adoption sites and information fairs, and my favorite - playing with the kitties!.