YAKIMA, Wash. – Ten cats and a baby kitten were discovered abandoned in a field and brought to the Yakima Humane Society by animal control. The mother and her kitten were transferred for special treatment, leaving the nine remaining cats at the shelter.
Recently, the two oldest cats, who are brothers and grew up in the same kennel, found a new home together. Next week, Calvin, the one-eyed cat, will also be adopted into a loving home.
“These animals are domestic. We created them. They cannot live on their own despite what many people think,” said Kelli Peal, Director of Shelter Operations for the Humane Society.
The society is committed to helping these cats find their forever homes. Peal has worked with the facility for over 20 years. She explained the shelter is designed to house roughly 35 dogs and 20 cats but is currently housing around 65 dogs and 35 cats.
“Overpopulation has been a problem the entire time. We really haven’t seen a decrease. This facility has never been empty,” she said. “Right now, it seems that we are seeing a lot more publicity about animals being dumped and we love publicity because it really draws people’s attention to the plight of these homeless animals,” said Peal.
Peal advised on what to do if you find an abandoned animal. “You need to know your restrictions. Can you help it by taking it into your home and keeping it? Or can you help it by taking a photo and posting it on Facebook, listing where it’s at so other people might be able to come get it or even the owner sees it? Or can you just call animal control and report that you saw it? So, it’s really going to depend on your situation,” she said.
Peal emphasized that the Humane Society does not judge those who choose to purchase pets instead of adopting. However, she personally believes in the difference adoption makes.
“Adopted animals just know they’re adopted. If you experience adopting one over a purchase, you experience an animal that went from the streets and they really appreciate that,” said Peal.
The cats rescued in this recent incident love space, baths and interacting with humans. Six of the nine cats are still available for adoption, as well as several other animals. More information can be found on the Yakima Humane Society’s website.
Animal abandonment is currently illegal in the state of Washington.
