Since Deb began volunteering in 2004, her dedication to the cats and kittens at the Humane Society of Boulder Valley has been unwavering. Deb initially spent her time as a Cat Kennel Assistant, providing enrichment and care for the many cats in our adoption center. Her volunteer service advanced to caring for cats that weren't quite ready for adoption due to stress, health or other behaviors.
Seven years later, Deb's service touches the lives cats in every area of the building, including the most fragile lives under the care of our Veterinary Clinic.
"She is a very quiet, unassuming person, but she has the magic touch with our sick kittens who need extra special care and patience," says Victoria Mattoni, HSBV Veterinary Technician. "When Deb agrees to take them home, she will keep them for however long it takes to make them well – usually several weeks. By the time she gets them, they have very often been on every medication we can use, and very often there is never any diagnosis for these little guys. They simply need time and a chance to get over their intestinal difficulties."
Most recently, Deb has been volunteering as a Feral Kitten Friend in addition to her other volunteer roles, spending time with undersocialized kittens who arrive afraid of human touch. Deb's patience and commitment shows these kittens the positive side of a healthy relationship with people, and they enter the adoption center ready for new families. According to Bridgette Chesne, Director of Shelter Services, Deb is a "committed, steady unsung hero."
Thank you, Deb, for your invaluable volunteer service. You really are a lifesaver!
Did you know? The Humane Society of Boulder Valley has three times as many Dog Kennel Assistant volunteers than Cat Kennel Assistant volunteers. If you’d be willing to give your time to cats in need, please contact Lindsay Scott, Volunteer Services Manager, at Lindsay.Scott@boulderhumane.org or 303-442-4030 x654.
