PHOENIX – In Arizona, where 41% of cats in shelters were strays in the first quarter of the year, numerous organizations are dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of these vulnerable animals. According to the latest Shelters Animal Count report, a significant number of cats find themselves without a home. Saving One Life, a nonprofit organization in Phoenix, is playing a crucial role in addressing this issue by rescuing, fostering, and rehabilitating cats found on the streets.
Saving One Life specializes in a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program, which involves humanely trapping feral cats, then spaying or neutering them to control the population. Anna Zhundrikova, a volunteer, manages the program and spends several evenings each week feeding homeless cats at various colony sites around Phoenix. “It’s about compassion,” Zhundrikova said. “Seeing the direct impact on our community drives my commitment to these animals.”
The organization is proactive in its approach, distributing around 1,000 pounds of cat food weekly to these colonies. Post-recovery, the cats are returned to their original locations where they were found, ensuring they can continue to live in their familiar environments with minimal disruption.
In instances where cats are deemed suitable for domestic life, they are fostered by volunteers like Kelly Stinson, who unexpectedly found joy in fostering. “The feeling of giving back, of providing a loving home even temporarily, is indescribable,” Stinson remarked. Cats in the foster program receive comprehensive care, including medical treatments, vaccinations, and regular health checks.
For those cats requiring more intensive care, the organization ensures they receive the necessary medical attention from veterinarians. All cats are spayed or neutered before adoption to prevent future increases in the stray population. Many of the ready-for-adoption cats are housed temporarily in local PetSmart stores or at the Kitty Pause Kitty Café in Mesa, where potential adopters can meet them.
Rylie Wangler, another volunteer, shared how working with the cats also serves as a bonding experience with her daughters. “It’s rewarding to see these cats go from being in need to finding their forever homes,” she said. Saving One Life prides itself on being a no-kill shelter, a policy that reflects its dedication to providing all necessary care for animals under its protection.
Volunteers like Stinson are often motivated by the harsh realities some animals face. She expressed sadness over the treatment of animals by some, emphasizing the emotional impact of rescuing animals from neglect or abuse. “Knowing we can change the narrative for these animals gives us a sense of purpose,” she added.
Through its dedicated volunteers and community-focused initiatives, Saving One Life not only enhances the lives of countless feral and abandoned cats but also enriches the Phoenix community, ensuring that these animals receive the care and love they deserve.