An older retiree in Peru, Indiana, has found a new calling visiting the nonprofit Scratching Post Cat Rescue every other day to cuddle the facility’s residents.
The Scratching Post Cat Rescue operates as a safe haven for over 250 needy cats. Most of the animals share difficult backgrounds, having been dumped by the road, abandoned during moves, or left behind when owners died or entered nursing homes, according to April Withrow, a board member at the rescue, who spoke to The Dodo.
More than two dozen community volunteers keep the shelter operational by cleaning facilities, feeding animals, and providing care. Some visitors take on a more specialized role several times a week.
“They take the time to just sit and love on these cats,” Withrow told The Dodo. “That’s why people like them are so important.”
Among those frequent visitors is an older gentleman named Jim. “He is retired. He comes to the rescue every other day,” Withrow told The Dodo.
Jim adopted a cat from the rescue previously. He felt the remaining animals could benefit from individual attention and continued his visits.
“He is a kind-hearted fella, and we appreciate him doing what he does,” Withrow told The Dodo. These snuggle sessions help nervous cats adjust to humans and prepare them for future adoption.
The human volunteers also experience personal benefits from the arrangement. Tammy, another participant, has spent more than five years volunteering as a cat cuddler at the shelter.
“She is disabled. Coming in helps her emotionally,” Withrow told The Dodo. Her behavior support specialist brings her to the facility during difficult days to help calm her.
| Rescue Detail | Metric |
|---|---|
| Total Cats Housed | Over 250 |
| Community Volunteers | More than two dozen |
| Jim’s Visit Frequency | Every other day |
| Tammy’s Tenure | More than five years |
Local shelters routinely look for community members willing to spend time socializing animals. Interested individuals can contact nearby facilities directly by phone or email to determine current volunteer needs.
