Of the Last Chance Cat Ranch

The Last Chance Cat Ranch, a rescue-group and shelter for cats in Lethbridge, Alberta, burned to the ground two weeks ago. I reported it on my blog and the Cat Blogosphere spread the news, for which I am grateful. Here is the latest news on that disaster.

Of the cats being cared for at the house, forty-seven died. Twenty-seven survived, though many were injured in various ways and to varying degrees. There are still animals missing, while three have been seen in the neighbourhood, and traps have been set out to capture them. A large sum of money has been donated, some of it through Paypal accounts, some through the Lethbridge PAW Society, with whom I volunteer; a local radio station has set up a fund, and other businesses, and many individuals, have given freely, including people who likely would have heard of this event through the Cat Blogosphere.

Though a very generous amount has been given, more is needed. Everyone reading this knows how expensive veterinary bills are; some cats are being boarded at a clinic because they have no where else to go. All of this costs money. Some donations were meant to help Ms Ginn, who runs the Last Chance Cat Ranch, and her son, who lost all their possessions.

I learned this weekend that there will be a fund-raising event for The Last Chance Cat Ranch on April 13th, at the Royal Canadian Legion, starting at 6 p.m. If anyone in or near Lethbridge reading this will be available then, his or her presence would be welcomed.

The fire was an upheaval that will be felt by many, and for a long time. A number of the surviving cats have been taken into foster-homes, others are still looking for residences, however temporary. Your warm comments are just as important as money, so please keep Ms Ginn and her charges in your thoughts - along with all the others in the Cat Blogosphere who are in need of sympathy and support.