Since Hands for Paws’ inception, local community members have been rallying behind the organization’s cause to help North Georgia’s cat population.
What Hands for Paws provides is a local alternative to putting the feral and tamed cat population out of harm’s way. The group spearheads efforts to collect cats in Habersham and surrounding counties that have been abandoned or whose owners are unable to care for them properly.
The organization also provides assistance to owners who may need help caring for their feline family and offers spay and neuter programs to avoid unwanted animals.
Grace Moore, HFP Public Relations member and cat owner, became involved after trying to help her friend, HFP President Donna Voll. It was as simple as temporarily caring for a few cats until they found a home. “I always want the best interest of the animal, whatever that may be,” says Moore.
Though the group spends countless hours trying to help these animals, more help is needed. More often than not, members’ homes become filled to capacity with the cats and kittens, both ill and well. HFP relies heavily on donations from the public, charity yard sales, and public events to cover the difference.
“Each time we transport a set of cats to a no-kill shelter out of state, it costs around $1,000,” says Moore. Additionally, the cost of supplies often runs in the hundreds of dollars. Another taxing expense is vet bills. The group often relies on the generosity of local veterinarians for assistance with sick animals to help their cause.
Moore remarks, “There is a major issue in the county right now. More frequently, we get cats with respiratory and eye illnesses. These animals are in dire need, and we will do whatever we can to help”.
The group is currently holding fundraisers for cats with Upper Respiratory Infections. Per Paws Vice President Patrice Lynn Young, these infections can cause a wide variety of issues for felines, such as pneumonia, mouth and nasal ulcers, and chronic lung and sinus damage. Also, the group is focusing on “means keeping the eyes and nose clear of discharge, regular application of eye medications and feeding with a syringe if necessary. Left untreated, many of these animals will suffer terribly and die.”
The organization is accepting donations online and in person.
To find out more about Hands for Paws or to make a donation, contact www.hands-for-Paws.org.
