Mitchell, SD — The Mitchell Animal Rescue TNR (MAR) is grappling with an unprecedented crisis, having taken in a record 60 cats from a severe hoarding situation. The rescue group is calling for community support to address the financial strain caused by this massive undertaking.
The situation unfolded in late August when MAR received an urgent call about a severe hoarding case located just outside the city. This plea for assistance came at a challenging time, as the organization had recently announced a reduction in services due to funding limitations.
Robyn Jones, the owner of MAR, explained the dire circumstances: “We felt it was imperative to step in despite our constraints. This situation resulted from the illness and subsequent departure of the property’s original owner. The current caretaker is fully cooperating to resolve the issue.”
The rescue’s response has been methodical and prioritized. Initially, MAR focused on the most severely ill cats, transporting them to a veterinarian for immediate treatment before relocating them to Jones’ home for ongoing care. The next priority was the youngest cats, deemed more likely to be adopted and help offset some of the costs through adoption fees. The remaining cats will be evaluated based on their health and adoptability.
“This scale of operation is unprecedented for us,” Jones remarked. “We are committed to addressing each case one animal at a time until the situation is fully resolved.”
Hoarding cases of this magnitude are rare but not unheard of, often starting with a single act of kindness towards stray cats that quickly spirals into a larger problem. Jones noted, “Feeding a stray can unintentionally lead to a breeding ground if not managed properly.”
As of last week, MAR had managed to raise funds to cover roughly half of the expenses incurred. Each cat requires comprehensive veterinary care, including spaying and neutering, to prevent further proliferation. The rescue estimates the cost to fully vet each cat at around $120. All donations in the coming weeks will be directed towards these veterinary expenses.
Despite the immediate challenges, MAR remains dedicated to its broader mission. “We are committed to continuing our work with the feral city pound cats and the community of Mitchell,” said volunteer Rocky Von Eye, reflecting the organization’s ongoing commitment since its establishment in 2008 by Megan Luther and Laurie Martin.
Operating on a shoestring budget, MAR relies heavily on donations and volunteers, including Jones and Von Eye. The organization’s efforts are crucial, especially given local regulations that allow for the euthanasia of unclaimed strays after just five days.
The rescue’s dedication was recently recognized at the Corn Palace, where MAR, alongside local group Purr ‘N Ruff, received Hometown Hero awards. Michelle Sheesley of Modern Woodmen presented the awards, highlighting the significant impact of these groups on the local community. Each organization received certificates, $100 for their charities, and supplies for their animal care.
Gail Hahne, founder and president of Purr ‘N Ruff, expressed her gratitude: “We are honored to receive this award. Our work, like MAR’s, relies heavily on community support.”
Founded in 2012, Purr ‘N Ruff shares a similar mission with MAR but focuses on rescuing animals outside city limits. Hahne, a former MAR volunteer, started Purr ‘N Ruff to address the need for additional resources and often collaborates with MAR on mutual initiatives.
The current hoarding case has posed unique challenges, particularly as many of the rescued cats are young and developing ringworm, which has temporarily halted adoptions. Despite these setbacks, MAR remains steadfast in its commitment.
“We are determined to see this rescue through,” Jones assured. “Every animal will receive the necessary veterinary care and be placed in a loving home. We are fully committed to this mission.”
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