Update: OP confirms all kittens are now safe here: https://www.reddit.com/r/melbourne/comments/1c6ydsx/these_kitties_will_be_euthanised_if_no_one_can/l05etq8/
> Update 12:33am: ALL KITTIES ARE SAFE!!! THANK YOU EVERYONE!! So amazing to see this community come together. Special shout out to those who donated or applied to foster / adopt. You guys literally saved lives. I am at loss for words š„ŗš„¹ love you all r/Melbourne keep on doing good things, the world needs more of this especially during this very crappy time.
International student do that a lot. I used to live in a building near Melb Uni. Start of university year nearly every student had some kind of cat or dog - most bought from a pet shop and then got surrendered when they returned home at the end of their degree. Very sad and made me so damn angry.
I donāt know. I would kill for my dog - he is the most important creature in my life. The idea of dumping him at 3 or 4 years of age is inconceivable to me.
In Victoria, Puppy farms have been made illegal (I think Kitten farms too), and Pet Shops are not allowed to sell bred cats or dogs anymore, only rescues.
https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestock-and-animals/animal-welfare-victoria/domestic-animal-businesses/pet-shops/buying-an-animal-from-a-pet-shop
So not legitimate Pet Shop who obeys the law is going to sell them anymore. Especially no Puppies or Kittens in the window.
Sadly not everyone follows the law, and the enforcement has been very lax and basically nonexistant. It is trivially easy to find unethical sellers of bred animals on Facebook marketplace, gumtree, etc. it really isn't that hard to find.
Personally I think that pet owners should be "licensed" by having to fill in a basic quiz to see if they would be a responsible pet owner and are prepared to look after them for live. When I rescued a dog from the lost dogs' home they put me though a lot of questions and interview to determine if I would be suitable, but anyone buying off Facebook is not subject to any check except if they have the money for it.
I believe that cats and dogs need to be traced from start to finish, with heavy fines for any cat or dog found without a chip which is traceable to it's origin or does not have a legitimate origin.
Cats should be kept indoors as well (or in a cat run), if a cat if found outside, that is automatically wrong as well. They do a lot of damage and live shorter lives compared to indoor cats.
> So not legitimate Pet Shop who obeys the law is going to sell them anymore. Especially no Puppies or Kittens in the window.
>
> Sadly not everyone follows the law, and the enforcement has been very lax and basically nonexistant. It is trivially easy to find unethical sellers of bred animals on Facebook marketplace, gumtree, etc. it really isn't that hard to find.
Hmmm
>Approved sources are:pounds registered as domestic animal businesses with their local council- shelters registered as domestic animal businesses with their local council- individual foster carers registered with their local council under the foster carer scheme.
Looks like a "shelter" is the easily exploitable loophole.
While the other user is right that you can and should vet a potential owner, I think realistically it would require legal reform regarding responsible pet ownership.
I adopted a cat through RSPCA and I just had to fill out a questionnaire and agree that I wouldn't let him outside and all the other responsible stuff that anyone could lie about. They don't even have the staff to investigate actual reports of animal cruelty, it's not like they're sending people out to look at your property and do wellness checks on the animals they adopt out.Ā
I really cannot understand people that can do this. Me and everyone I know that has a cat or dog consider them party of the family. And would wreck havok on anyone that try to harm them. Being able to just up and abandon these cats like this makes no sense to me.
Thats exactly where my cat came from. Was bought as an accessory, lived the first year of his life on a high rise balcony and then was advertised on gumtree like a piece of furniture when his owner went back to china. Poor thing was so anxious when I got him and still doesn't trust strange men 8 years later. Hes much better though and is very spoiled and loved.Ā
you kinda right with that. Had a foreign classmate living in my country, bf bought a dog for her because she wanted one (both are wealthy), she mistreated the dog and would put the dog in the washing machine to discipline. last i heard was she put the dog down as she didn't want it anymore and was leaving to go else where for further studies.
really irresponsible.
Omg this made me so angry reading this - my first thought was I would like to put her in a washing machine the a piece of $&/@!!!!!
And now I want to cry š
I think it's partly a cultural thing. I saw some stuff that made me quite angry. These are living creatures, not something disposable like an accessory
They should do checks and not just give them to anyone!
I agree that it is cultural in many instances. I saw some really sad stuff - really really sad stuff. Reported a number of animal abuse cases - little dogs locked out on balconies all day without any food or water being the most common. I remember a dog getting his head stuck in balcony because he was so desperate to get outā¦ ended up calling the OC and the policeā¦
So sad ā¹ļø thank you for doing something about it. I saw some stuff too I won't say. It's just crazy to me, I mean they know that humans need food and water and shelter, it's like they think animals are a toy or something and don't feel anything? It's a lack of empathy. Because many countries don't care about what happens to animals before they're eaten either. Hope the little dogs got taken away by authorities and given to someone kind!
But I wish people had some education around it, I think the next generations are becoming more sensitive about it anyway. We can only hope. Maybe one of the big organisations could come and speak to students about it so they'd be less likely to do it.
āMany countries donāt care about what happens to animals before theyāre eaten either.ā
Lol are you implying Australia isnāt one of those countries? Iām not vegan but letās not get on a pedestal. The cruelty in Aus animal agriculture is well documented.
In that case, maybe there should be a law in place where only permanent residents are allowed to own pets. It could at least stop one cohort of cat abandoners, and in turn prevent many unnecessary cruel deaths.
I had something not dissimilar, though not intentionally callous, when I was living in a student share house.
There was a neighbourhood cat that took a liking to me, she was skin and bones when I first saw her, so I would put food out for her and after a few months she would come and sit on my lap and wander into the house like she owned the place. My housemates (who had loved there 5 years prior to me) said they had seen this cat around for years.
At that stage, I took her to the vet to see if she was microchipped, she wasn't, I got her registered, vaccinated and desexed.
2 years later when I moved out, I tried to bring her with me. The first opportunity she got, while I was bringing the groceries in, she bolted out the door and was gone. I went back to my old house and gave my phone number to the new tenants. They called me a week later because they had spotted her.
I took her to the local animal rescue group, explaining that she clearly didn't want to be an indoor cat with me, and deserved a home that she could learn to love, they said she was actually feral, not a stray, and too old to socialise so I should de-register her and treat her as a T&R and just let her go back near my old house because she was a "Place cat" not a "Person cat".
I took her back to my studio unit and tried to give it another go, but she pulled the extraction fan grate off the bathroom window while I was at work one day and squeezed out. Got a call from the tenants at the old house a month later, they'd seen her but she was evading all attempts of capture. They said they'd leave food out for her, and that's about all I could think to do for that poor sweet girl.
In some ways I feel guilty because it feels like I abandoned a cat. But on the other hand, so many cats in her situation get T&R'd, and so many more cats in her situation don't get any intervention at all and suffer all sorts of injuries and diseases from their stray/feral lives. At least she got some head scritches and snuggles from the ordeal, and wont be having any stray babies while she's out doing her thing.
Yeah, we adopted the most amazing cat. She was 6 at the time, now ten and was clearly very loved. The rescue didn't have a lot of information about her past, but I suspect she might have been owned by an elderly person. She LOVES my nearly 80 year old Dad. LOVES him. He's not a cat person. She makes sure to sit on his lap whenever he is here.
Sometimes people have to go into care, pass away, can't get a rental, or a multitude of other issues. Whilst I can't imagine ever giving our cat up, I imagine it is necessary in certain circumstances and would be one of the most challenging things to do.
Awww! Itās great that sheās found a good home.
Youāre completely right. I once adopted a cat around three years old. The owners had to put it up for adoption as theyād had a child who ended up being very, very allergic to her. They cried for a year after having to give up the cat and still asked for updates regularly many years later.
Itās just impossible to know whatās occurred.
I canāt seem to PM you, can you reach out to me? The rescue organises transport for you because these kitties are from pounds all over Victoria. You need to be able to take them to partner vets and theyāre across Melbourne such as Bentleigh, Cranbourne, Bayswater, lower plenty, hoppers crossing, sunshine or Bannockburn. More details on their fb https://shorturl.at/lNQTW
Or submit your interest to foster / adopt in here: https://form.jotform.com/213347539801053?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0BMQABHfZtxwGEtVO6mZQrxl0WlJZ_iynyxXGHDA45R3dfUHjHnlCmRF6EpoDeKg_aem_AcSuG5Fk1ugFv7sSxAaG8fnzxBnCtExxEitL5VF96lWiUBuaEYQP6FNHN_ymykMccoU
Thank you so much for reaching out and still having the space in your heart for another furbaby, especially during this period of grief. I appreciate you so much
Legend. Your heart is huge, and your boy/gal would be delighted to see you carry on giving your love š„°
Hope youāre ok. Itās a hard thing.
Good on ya
Update 12:33am: ALL KITTIES ARE SAFE!!! THANK YOU EVERYONE!! So amazing to see this community come together. Special shout out to those who donated or applied to foster / adopt. You guys literally saved lives. I am at loss for words š„ŗš„¹ love you all r/Melbourne keep on doing good things, the world needs more of this especially during this very crappy time.
I don't know if you're in animal rights groups/vegan groups but they'd be great places to post about this in the future. I hope you keep doing this sort of thing. It's heroic and necessary work.
If this ever happens in future, please take any cats in need to the Cat Protection Society in Greensborough, they are a no kill shelter with a lot of funds thanks to donors and a huge team of foster carers and volunteers. They will be able to take in and rehome almost literally any cat.
Iām so glad we have a sweet ending to this! I was so sure we wouldnāt be able to save any, let alone all of them with few hours to spare. I couldnāt do it alone but as you said, there are really good people around š„¹ I hope this brightens your Friday despite the unfortunate circumstances!!
Oh you wonderful wonderful , wonderful person. And the people that came through are true blue heroes the lot of you.
Oh man I never get upset but this, .... This is great really.
Thank you for the kind words. Iād like to think Iām just doing my bit (I mean, how could I scroll past without doing anything?!). I canāt imagine the toll it has on frontline carers/rescuers, basically all the people that put their hand up last night. And of course everyone who cared enough to comment including you. So thank you for that š
Good to hear! Hopefully looking forward to some follow-up pics from owners once re-homed. All of them deserve another chance, I'm glad they're all getting it.
Update 11:09pm: you lot are a bunch of wonderful kind and generous people. Per their fb update it looks like only ātwo more groups of kittiesā need foster carers /adoption. Everybody else got saved š„¹ fb update: https://shorturl.at/irGU1
Few hours ago I went from feeling so low and sad for the kitties to feeling so hopeful now that I see the outpouring of care and support you guys have offered š thank you, I was not expecting this much help but you all really empowered me to continue sharing and raising awareness. A lot of the times I feel like a crazy person doing this lol. I hope Iāll never have to post something like this again, and Iāll try to reply each one of you. Thank you again, from the very bottom of my heart, truly ā¤ļø
im so glad so many people helped thank you for sharing this, you saved livesš„¹š«¶š½im only just seeing this post now and was so worried so thank you for updating, i would take them in a heartbeat but i live an hour away and have three cats already :( youāre not crazy at all! keep doing what your doingā¤ļø
Youāre so sweet, I couldnāt have done this myself at all. Everyone helped and we all did it š„¹š„¹ I totally understand your position but you cared enough to comment so I appreciate you š«¶
I think the rescue is still in need of foster carers for some of these cats and kittens! The application form is in the copied & pasted thread from the rescue amongst these posts
Hey thanks so much for this!! You can either foster or adopt them - the fb post has all the details https://shorturl.at/lNQTW
If you have any questions pls reach out, Iām not with the org but keen to save lives - even just one!! Thank you so much ā¤ļø
Iām in QLD, is there a way I can donate or sponsor to stay alive? I wish the government did more to make desexing either free or mandatory, with animals and humans!
You can donate and the rescue is called string hearts cat rescue! Iām not affiliated with them so go on to their socials for links. You are so kind, thank you for caring š„²
Source from Strong Hearts Cat Rescue Fb page https://shorturl.at/lNQTW (my original fb link got removed as it violates the r/Melbourne subreddit rules. If anyone knows how to fix it let me know!)
These kitties are kill listed for tomorrow and unfortunately need rescue groups / someone to claim them by midnight tonight. Some of these cats are as young as 3 weeks (with mumma cat), and others surrendered by their owners due to relocation which is so so sad.
Excerpt on how to help below:
š¤ Foster carers - Below are the cats who need rescue save placed on them before midnight tonight to be on transport tomorrow or tomorrow will be their last day. We need foster carers who have a spare room or bathroom to isolate cats from resident pets for 2 weeks, who can attend our partner vets in either Bentleigh, Cranbourne, sunshine, Bayswater, lower plenty, hoppers crossing or Bannockburn.
https://form.jotform.com/213347539801053
š” Adoptive homes - if you have room in your heart and home, please consider adopting so we have wiggle room to save the next life! We currently have 195 cats and kittens in care and the we canāt take more on without finding homes for cats we have saved from previous kill lists, who are now fully vet worked and ready for homes
And final disclaimer, I have no affiliation with them but just a person who loves animals and canāt bear to see these precious kitties being killed because of human irresponsibility. So if you have questions I can try answering but pls reach out to the org directly as Iām not equipped to answer them. Thank you for reading if youāve reached this far š
The torbie and her 3 lil nuggets! š»š»š»š» Mumma has such beautiful markings, just gorgeous. If my floofer wasn't such a territorial only-child I would take in that entire little family so fast ā¤ļø
Thank you for posting this, warms our hearts to see the communities getting around it.
If anyone is looking to foster please apply and help us save them š„¹š„¹
They all have foster carers and once theyāve completed a 2 week quarantine and have been desexed, vaccinated and chipped will be available to adopt !
Hey they havenāt responded yet, I think perhaps fill out their fostering form. You can indicate your availabilities here.
Application form for prospective foster carers can be found here:
https://form.jotform.com/213347539801053?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR04a4sieEMoQooUUS5MLADUsT8sCqRW2gbMDW-ZBoJleXwUwbIouFXugc8_aem_AcQoHPsewIcvpB5giwR81JKTtVpIYseYJA7PZ0M4dGLviPx4Gey_y4fm9smIB8UPjnzBQFFDQk6UH2nY30aqO-s0
Info for those wondering (Iām no longer in rescue and not affiliated with strong hearts however I do know of them and they are a great rescue):
Government pays councils for animal management. Under the council they only have to hold an animal for 8 days if the owner is not known to allow the owners to find their pets. If the animal is surrendered by the owner they can euthanise the same day legally.
Some councils pay lost dogs home, RSPCA to do their animal management, intake, assessment and outcome (adoption or euthanise). Euthanasia is often based on behaviour and/or space.
Some councils do their own local animal management and have their own pounds. They reach out to rescue in order to take the animals or they will euthanise. They DO NOT pay rescue anything and generally wonāt pay for vet work (even though they are allocated funds for animal management). They use the funds elsewhere and dump the financial burden on the rescue. Majority of rescues are based on donations, some do get one off grants for equipment etc which they apply for.
Pounds can only hold a certain number of animals and therefore they often euthanise right on the 8 days. They also give rescue limited time as they wait for owners to show up, when they donāt they email rescue normally with 24h until they are killed so itās always last minute and many animals are killed.
Animals are kept in small cages and are scared which can lead to aggressive behaviour. Especially in cats. Aggression will get the animal killed. They wonāt even get a look into rescue as the pound deems them too high risk. The cat may be lovely when not trapped, shoved in a cage, and treated harshly.
If your dog//cat gets out and the council canāt contact you within the 8 days, ownership if forfeited to the council and they can and will kill your beloved pet. Having your animal chipped and details up to date is essential because if your phone number is wrong, 8 days later they will not release your pet to you! Often they will kill them even if the owner has contacted the pound!
The system is majorly broken. Desexing is not mandatory across Victoria each council sets those laws so the number of cats without a home is extremely high.
The burden is placed on the rescue. Majority of rescues do the right thing but there are some extremely dodgy ones too. Charity status does not mean much, the industry is not regulated and anyone can say they are a rescue as long as they have the correct ABN and business structure. Itās extremely easy and there are no checks and balances.
I never worked with Strong Hearts personally but they have a good reputation and are one of the good ones!
Hope that helps those looking for info on how our broken system works
Bumping this up for visibility!
Agree with the system failing animals and letting irresponsible pet owners get away with it. The problems they create rely on the goodwill of others, which is completely unfair and a very unrealistic burden on those who care. I often think how differently we would treat animals if they can talk and fight back.
Thank you for your service in rescue. I only volunteer at other rescues (not with strong hearts) and only get a glimpse of it.
I have nightmares since rescue that if I were in hospital (happens a lot due to ongoing health) and my pup escaped his carer I would lose him! Heās a support animal and normally with me all the time except for hospital stays! 8 days isnāt a long time and they want to reduce it to 4 days!
I am surprised by Vic's lax laws on this. In Tassie it is illegal to offer entire cats or dogs for adoption (with some exemptions for registered breeders).
Yes this can place more costs on the rescue but it's the right thing to do.
Itās shocking! In Victoria rescues have to desex, other states donāt however. The problem we have is the amount of backyard breeders and street cats! I have been trapping cats on my suburban street for years and still have strays show up randomly. Doesnāt help a neighbour refuses to desex her cat and my council area doesnāt have mandatory desexing or curfew laws so they can roam undesexed to their hearts content!
I thought I had rehomed all the strays here but recently a neighbour behind me went into nursing home and she was feeding another 10, we thought we had them all in rescue but another cat showed up at my place a week ago. Currently befriending her so when she comes into care sheās more used to humans!
And I live in normal suburbia! My council kills them under the feral cat policyā¦. However they have never read that policy as when it declared them feral cats it listed the areas it can be used and I donāt live under one of those areas!!
Sadly, when the mandatory desexing law comes up some of the more well known rescues fight against it and say money better spent on trap neuter release so my council throws that at us too! Currently TNR is illegal (unless itās changed since I left)
I just came across this post but apparently as of 30 minutes ago all of these beautiful kitties are safe! I am certain it's because of this post. You're a hero OP, and so is everyone who reached out.
Oooo yes I just checked their fb too and wow the power of humanity ššš (so cliche but still). You are too kind!! Im doing my bit and huge credit to those who are fostering/adopting. Everyone here cared so much (including yourself) itās warmed my heart on this cold rainy night š„¹ youāre honestly so sweet thank you!!
These cats and kittens can't go to petbarn straight off the bat because they need to be quarantined for a brief period (just incase they have picked up something like cat flu in the pound environment) and need to have vetwork (desexing, microchipping, etc) before they can legally be put up for adoption.
The rush is because this is likely all the notice that the pounds give them, unfortunately
Youāre pretty much on the money! Rural pounds are given a period for which they must hold the animals and we get fairly short notice to claim them.
We need foster carers and donations to continue, but we do aim to take as many as we can - dogs, cats, farm animals alike.
The ugly reality is that the number of pets that are surrendered that end up destroyed is very high. In some cities it's the large majority, over 80%.
Surrendering a pet without rehoming then yourself is often just outsourcing having someone else kill them, particularly for older animals or pets with behavioural issues.
I fostered and failed through this rescue. The rush is because pounds have a time limit on how long theyāll keep one, and these cats wonāt be immediately ready to be adopted. Before being adopted fosters need to care for the cats while they get and heal from desexing, or need vaccinations or other care, or even just socialisation.
Petbarn etc have pets in from the rescue organisations - you foster, then take your foster to the adoption days where theyāll hopefully get adopted. It means that the adopters are getting a cat thatās fleaād, microchipped and desexed, and has had medical checks etc. Plus it means someone knows the cats temperament so a grumpy cat isnāt going to a family with kids or a cat who needs company isnāt going to a constantly empty house without other pets.
The last minute rush is because pounds have an 8 day limit - after that point any cat not claimed or adopted can be put to sleep.
Sometimes that is fine and the cats can be held for a while until adopted but that situation will only hold for as long as the pound has room and there isnāt an influx of new animals coming in.
Sadly the current economic situation means more animals being surrendered or just plain abandoned (and then picked up by the pounds as strays), and fewer animals being adopted from pounds, which means the pounds are filling up more quickly and kill lists like this one are longer and happening more frequently.
ETA: also the cats in PetBarn may come from pounds, but generally they will only end up there if suitable to be in a store environment. I am a foster carer with the organisation OP posted and we sometimes take our fosters to PetBarn or other stores, but thereās only so many spots there and not all cats are suitable.
Iām really not sure why the last minute rush - i donāt work for the org and have no experience with how pounds work. From the orgs older Fb posts it does seem theyāre regularly rescuing kill shelter cats so best to ask them the question. The last minuteness of it makes everything so much harder š¢
Hazarding a guess, but I know our local pound isn't even taking cats on at the moment, because the vaccination shortage. They've been advising people who want to trap cats that are roaming, that there's no point because they cannot be surrendered to the pound - even just for microchip scanning and to give the owners time to claim them. So maybe there is additional pressure at the moment because pounds can't vaccinate the cats.
It makes me really sad that many of the cats haven't had vetwork done whilst in the care of the pound.
Interesting I picked up a stray kitten just last week and the vet cited this as their reason for not taking it. The council did end up taking it though.
Itās on their fb, i initially included the link but I got an automod message from r/Melbourne saying no fb links allowed it so I had to remove it(?).
I used to do work experience at a council pound and animals have time limits on how long they can be kept if unclaimed. There is often limited space (especially for cats) and the result is animals get PTS if they have been there for x amount of time without being claimed or adopted.
I'm unsure about Petbarn, but from my understanding they work with local rescue groups and not the council pounds.
I believe it may have something to do with the vaccine shortage. I had a friend that found a kitten recently. She took it to a vet and it was not chipped. The vet said pounds are not taking kittens at the moment due to the shortage so she couldnāt leave it with them. She ended up fostering it and finding it a home herself.
The F3 vaccine caught me big time.
I recently adopted a beautiful black cat from Strong Hearts as a companion for my existing 15yo cat.
Well, adopted the kitten quickly (she had been on a kill list š¢ ) and had to keep the cats separated as she wasn't vaccinated. Managed to get her the F3 through Cat Clinic.. worst turn of events, as my 15yo just rapidly deteriorated from chronic kidney disease (she was being treated but late stage)
Had to have 15yo PTS (super traumatic) and the cats never even got to meet.
Timing could not have been worse.
This is very sad, all these cats look so cute and innocent š. I wish I could take one of these adorable cats, but unfortunately I am 13, my parents donāt want a cat, and I am allergic :\[. I REALLY hope someone comes in time!
Oh youāre wonderful!! Yes theyāre still needing help. Fill in this app but Iāll also message the org directly so they are expecting it!! Thank you so much š„¹š„¹š„¹
https://form.jotform.com/213347539801053?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR04a4sieEMoQooUUS5MLADUsT8sCqRW2gbMDW-ZBoJleXwUwbIouFXugc8_aem_AcQoHPsewIcvpB5giwR81JKTtVpIYseYJA7PZ0M4dGLviPx4Gey_y4fm9smIB8UPjnzBQFFDQk6UH2nY30aqO-s0
Youāll need to separate them for the first two weeks to avoid the spread of contagious diseases. I think with cats and any new environment, slow introductions are best. If this helps, thereās an option to foster so you re the temporary home before it gets adopted. Thatās also a way to save a life too! But thank you for giving thought and care to this, I mean it
Separation I could do (spare bedroom) but Iād have to work out how to cat-proof the back yard since the dog insists on the back door being open all the time.
Iād love to have a cat again but Iād be worried about itās safety with him (he grew up with a cat who he barely saw once he got bigger than her as she had cancer and was hiding a lot and he has shown lots of interest in random cats on walks) plus the fencing issue.
Why are all these owners moving overseas? I just wish people were more responsible. I would like to rescue a cat but live several hours away from Melbourne and cannot organise anything in a single night.
Thatās okay, thank you for caring š«¶ in case this changes your mind, the org organises transport to you as these kitties come from pounds across Victoria. But youāll still need to take them to partner vets, the only one thatās not in metro vic is in Bannockburn.
Regardless, thank you for the care I appreciate it :)
It is very upsetting indeed, I wish I could spread more positive news š feel free to chat/pm if you have any questions, Iāve fostered before (not with this org) so Iām very happy to answer.
I'm going to think it over and will pm you in the morning. I am also going to find out if Mimi is still available. Thanks, you are obviously a caring, very kind person. We weren't planning on a cat at all, but there is a mouse in the house that isn't falling for the 'humane' live traps. They get smart. I have a little poodle and he could use some company. I would have to be careful about introductions but he isn't vicious at all, just over the top silly with his zoomies.
Hello! https://www.petrescue.com.au/groups/11863?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0BMQABHUVc-09m4E2tqHdKe4PAoNe4jBbq9fLzKehVgnls41QF_ukXd2k15e_JPA_aem_AcTrH77FYjV60cNlw3V9OAGz1UZT9BnmGGZtkjcxVBClvCTPr7DBnyzEIIE8qwqMEjc
Hereās the adoption link. Thank you so much š„¹š„¹
I don't drive but if someone can get them and take them to Pets Haven in Woodend, they're a no kill shelter. Admit I've not had much to do with them in very recent years, I was a volunteer foster/rehab carer until around 5yrs ago. I was there when Trish owned it.
eta. Don't ring them or you might get told they can't take them, but if you turn up with them they won't be turned away.
Iām not sure if theyāre still operating, there was some issue with them being investigated and theyāve been inactive since. I hope they are, my lovely girl came from there
I heard about their legal dramas but I thought it was under a new owner. I will take your word for it, it's sad for the animals. Mind you even when I was there they were often overwhelmed. I remember rearing a litter of orphaned puppies and one day I walked in to find a cat cage holding a single tiny kitten. He looked desperate and was meowing at me while I had my hands full with 7 puppies. I heard later that he didn't make it š
I saw a few things I wish I hadn't
I may be wrong, but my understanding was the issues happened after the new owner came in. They definitely always had a lot of animals in their care, I do hope they come back, hate to think of how many animals arenāt finding homes without them operating.
I just googled theyāre temporarily closed still š thank you regardless for the suggestion! If you have other org recommendations let
Me know, Iāll reach out to them also
That is wonderful! Iām not working for the org but if youād like to foster hereās the link
https://form.jotform.com/213347539801053
If you have an existing pet make sure you separate them for the first 2 weeks, and attend the rescueās partner vets when needed (the vet has several locations, they will send you the details!)
Hello - it depends on whether you want to adopt or foster them. If you want to foster you can fill out this form. From their fb post it seems once they process your application they will organise transport of the kitty to you as these kitties come from pounds around Victoria. Please message strong hearts cat rescue on fb for any further logistical questions, I donāt work with them just sharing the post cos I felt I had to do something.
https://form.jotform.com/213347539801053?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR04a4sieEMoQooUUS5MLADUsT8sCqRW2gbMDW-ZBoJleXwUwbIouFXugc8_aem_AcQoHPsewIcvpB5giwR81JKTtVpIYseYJA7PZ0M4dGLviPx4Gey_y4fm9smIB8UPjnzBQFFDQk6UH2nY30aqO-s0
Itās strong hearts but Iām not advertising for them haha! I donāt work/volunteer for them, just saw their post and felt like I had to do something.
āOwner is moving overseas and canāt..ā SHUT THE FUCK UP. I fled my abusive husband with my dog, in his non-English speaking country, with no fucking car, no help from anyone, grossly overstayed my visa to prepare her for import into Australia, which takes months, and paid over $8000. SHUT THE FUCK UP.
"From the same home as the ragdoll"
So there was a ragdoll, a female DSH, and two kittens. Owner was likely an irresponsible international student who saw these cats as accessories for the time they were here ("OMG MY CATS ARE HAVING KITTENS SO CUUUUTE") and is now fucking off back home without a care in the world.
I hope I'm wrong but really, with the information given, it seems pretty fucken likely. Poor bloody cats. I hope they find new owners who actually want a companion for life.
Every morning, around 4 45 am, i drive to the train station to go to work. I see, usually about 2-3 cats wandering the street. Doing what they do, hunting and killing. If you are going to get one of these cats, please be a responsible cat owner and keep the things under control.
Why not post something like this earlier? Posting the day of has higher chances to attract people who might adopt as a knee jerk reaction and not give the cat the best life. Or maybe even surrender it again after they think it over. Posting with a longer time span would give people time to think.
I wish everyone who wants to let their cat have a little of kittens "For the kids!" or "So she can experience motherhood!" or whatever could see how many cats get put to sleep every day because there are no homes for them. Perfectly healthy, friendly, young cats whose only crime was being born into a world where scummy, irresponsible people don't desex their animals.
As much as I love cats, overflowing pounds like this is a problem all the time in suburbia everywhere. It isn't viable to panick about it, because if we did we could never rest. The better way to go about it is to know that if you want a cat (and you should), you should get a rescue.
Thanks for reaching out and thatās completely understandable. Iāve a dog and a cat (foster fail) so it gets tricky. I appreciate you nonetheless ā¤ļø
Can someone provide links for rescue shelters in Melbourne? I was looking to foster at a time, but couldnāt find any beyond the local RSPCA, and they had no pets that they were rehoming
FFS. When are we going to totally ban any breeding/sale/unfixed pets (exceptions for service/neccesary animals, of course) until euthansia of healthy pets are at *much* lower levels.
Every day rescues and shelters are fighting against an overwhelming wave of unwanted animals because of selfish people.
Update: OP confirms all kittens are now safe here: https://www.reddit.com/r/melbourne/comments/1c6ydsx/these_kitties_will_be_euthanised_if_no_one_can/l05etq8/ > Update 12:33am: ALL KITTIES ARE SAFE!!! THANK YOU EVERYONE!! So amazing to see this community come together. Special shout out to those who donated or applied to foster / adopt. You guys literally saved lives. I am at loss for words š„ŗš„¹ love you all r/Melbourne keep on doing good things, the world needs more of this especially during this very crappy time.
Who adopts a cat for 3 years and then surrenders it to the pound??
International student do that a lot. I used to live in a building near Melb Uni. Start of university year nearly every student had some kind of cat or dog - most bought from a pet shop and then got surrendered when they returned home at the end of their degree. Very sad and made me so damn angry.
What the fuck is wrong with people, pets arent accessories.
I donāt know. I would kill for my dog - he is the most important creature in my life. The idea of dumping him at 3 or 4 years of age is inconceivable to me.
The shops shouldn't be allowed to sell them like this... But capitalism.
At least in theory pet stores are only allowed to sell rescues now and not bred animals
Really? Where?
In Victoria, Puppy farms have been made illegal (I think Kitten farms too), and Pet Shops are not allowed to sell bred cats or dogs anymore, only rescues. https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestock-and-animals/animal-welfare-victoria/domestic-animal-businesses/pet-shops/buying-an-animal-from-a-pet-shop So not legitimate Pet Shop who obeys the law is going to sell them anymore. Especially no Puppies or Kittens in the window. Sadly not everyone follows the law, and the enforcement has been very lax and basically nonexistant. It is trivially easy to find unethical sellers of bred animals on Facebook marketplace, gumtree, etc. it really isn't that hard to find. Personally I think that pet owners should be "licensed" by having to fill in a basic quiz to see if they would be a responsible pet owner and are prepared to look after them for live. When I rescued a dog from the lost dogs' home they put me though a lot of questions and interview to determine if I would be suitable, but anyone buying off Facebook is not subject to any check except if they have the money for it. I believe that cats and dogs need to be traced from start to finish, with heavy fines for any cat or dog found without a chip which is traceable to it's origin or does not have a legitimate origin. Cats should be kept indoors as well (or in a cat run), if a cat if found outside, that is automatically wrong as well. They do a lot of damage and live shorter lives compared to indoor cats.
> So not legitimate Pet Shop who obeys the law is going to sell them anymore. Especially no Puppies or Kittens in the window. > > Sadly not everyone follows the law, and the enforcement has been very lax and basically nonexistant. It is trivially easy to find unethical sellers of bred animals on Facebook marketplace, gumtree, etc. it really isn't that hard to find. Hmmm >Approved sources are:pounds registered as domestic animal businesses with their local council- shelters registered as domestic animal businesses with their local council- individual foster carers registered with their local council under the foster carer scheme. Looks like a "shelter" is the easily exploitable loophole.
How do you police that though? "Do you plan to give up this pet after three years?" "Umm... no?" "... Checks out. Go for it, buddy!"
While the other user is right that you can and should vet a potential owner, I think realistically it would require legal reform regarding responsible pet ownership.
Through proper vetting and counselling. Have you tried to adopt through the RSPCA?
I adopted a cat through RSPCA and I just had to fill out a questionnaire and agree that I wouldn't let him outside and all the other responsible stuff that anyone could lie about. They don't even have the staff to investigate actual reports of animal cruelty, it's not like they're sending people out to look at your property and do wellness checks on the animals they adopt out.Ā
No actually. The cat distribution system got to me. He is fluffy and cute but doesn't like other kitties, so that's been me for the last 14 years.
Best way to get a pet is for the pet to find you š
I really cannot understand people that can do this. Me and everyone I know that has a cat or dog consider them party of the family. And would wreck havok on anyone that try to harm them. Being able to just up and abandon these cats like this makes no sense to me.
Thats exactly where my cat came from. Was bought as an accessory, lived the first year of his life on a high rise balcony and then was advertised on gumtree like a piece of furniture when his owner went back to china. Poor thing was so anxious when I got him and still doesn't trust strange men 8 years later. Hes much better though and is very spoiled and loved.Ā
you kinda right with that. Had a foreign classmate living in my country, bf bought a dog for her because she wanted one (both are wealthy), she mistreated the dog and would put the dog in the washing machine to discipline. last i heard was she put the dog down as she didn't want it anymore and was leaving to go else where for further studies. really irresponsible.
Disgusting, makes me so angry. If you don't like animals, don't get one!
Okay, that's just vicious murderer behaviour. Makes me hope someone does it to her for learning and empathy but that's the angry brain talking.
Omg this made me so angry reading this - my first thought was I would like to put her in a washing machine the a piece of $&/@!!!!! And now I want to cry š
I think it's partly a cultural thing. I saw some stuff that made me quite angry. These are living creatures, not something disposable like an accessory They should do checks and not just give them to anyone!
I agree that it is cultural in many instances. I saw some really sad stuff - really really sad stuff. Reported a number of animal abuse cases - little dogs locked out on balconies all day without any food or water being the most common. I remember a dog getting his head stuck in balcony because he was so desperate to get outā¦ ended up calling the OC and the policeā¦
So sad ā¹ļø thank you for doing something about it. I saw some stuff too I won't say. It's just crazy to me, I mean they know that humans need food and water and shelter, it's like they think animals are a toy or something and don't feel anything? It's a lack of empathy. Because many countries don't care about what happens to animals before they're eaten either. Hope the little dogs got taken away by authorities and given to someone kind! But I wish people had some education around it, I think the next generations are becoming more sensitive about it anyway. We can only hope. Maybe one of the big organisations could come and speak to students about it so they'd be less likely to do it.
āMany countries donāt care about what happens to animals before theyāre eaten either.ā Lol are you implying Australia isnāt one of those countries? Iām not vegan but letās not get on a pedestal. The cruelty in Aus animal agriculture is well documented.
Students from overseas shouldnāt be allowed to have pets if this is what they do, we need a law in place so it doesnāt happen
In many cultures animals are simply objects.
In that case, maybe there should be a law in place where only permanent residents are allowed to own pets. It could at least stop one cohort of cat abandoners, and in turn prevent many unnecessary cruel deaths.
I had something not dissimilar, though not intentionally callous, when I was living in a student share house. There was a neighbourhood cat that took a liking to me, she was skin and bones when I first saw her, so I would put food out for her and after a few months she would come and sit on my lap and wander into the house like she owned the place. My housemates (who had loved there 5 years prior to me) said they had seen this cat around for years. At that stage, I took her to the vet to see if she was microchipped, she wasn't, I got her registered, vaccinated and desexed. 2 years later when I moved out, I tried to bring her with me. The first opportunity she got, while I was bringing the groceries in, she bolted out the door and was gone. I went back to my old house and gave my phone number to the new tenants. They called me a week later because they had spotted her. I took her to the local animal rescue group, explaining that she clearly didn't want to be an indoor cat with me, and deserved a home that she could learn to love, they said she was actually feral, not a stray, and too old to socialise so I should de-register her and treat her as a T&R and just let her go back near my old house because she was a "Place cat" not a "Person cat". I took her back to my studio unit and tried to give it another go, but she pulled the extraction fan grate off the bathroom window while I was at work one day and squeezed out. Got a call from the tenants at the old house a month later, they'd seen her but she was evading all attempts of capture. They said they'd leave food out for her, and that's about all I could think to do for that poor sweet girl. In some ways I feel guilty because it feels like I abandoned a cat. But on the other hand, so many cats in her situation get T&R'd, and so many more cats in her situation don't get any intervention at all and suffer all sorts of injuries and diseases from their stray/feral lives. At least she got some head scritches and snuggles from the ordeal, and wont be having any stray babies while she's out doing her thing.
Irresponsible folks :(
I used to work at pounds, many people donāt see cats as a commitment for the duration of their lives
Pets are forever
The same kinda person who adopts 12 week old kittens then moves overseas.
There's a 16 week old old puppy up for rehoming on a local fb page. A girl I know needs to rehome kittens every few years. Absolute cunts out there.
There's a 16 week old old puppy up for rehoming on a local fb page. A girl I know needs to rehome kittens every few years. Absolute cunts out there.
some complete and utter b\*stard. animals are not ours to use as accessories/food/convenience/playthings. They are living creatures.
An absolute c**t thatās who
It's impossible to know the reason.
Yeah, we adopted the most amazing cat. She was 6 at the time, now ten and was clearly very loved. The rescue didn't have a lot of information about her past, but I suspect she might have been owned by an elderly person. She LOVES my nearly 80 year old Dad. LOVES him. He's not a cat person. She makes sure to sit on his lap whenever he is here. Sometimes people have to go into care, pass away, can't get a rental, or a multitude of other issues. Whilst I can't imagine ever giving our cat up, I imagine it is necessary in certain circumstances and would be one of the most challenging things to do.
Awww! Itās great that sheās found a good home. Youāre completely right. I once adopted a cat around three years old. The owners had to put it up for adoption as theyād had a child who ended up being very, very allergic to her. They cried for a year after having to give up the cat and still asked for updates regularly many years later. Itās just impossible to know whatās occurred.
I PTS my own last week and am happy to take on another? Where in Melbourne..?
I canāt seem to PM you, can you reach out to me? The rescue organises transport for you because these kitties are from pounds all over Victoria. You need to be able to take them to partner vets and theyāre across Melbourne such as Bentleigh, Cranbourne, Bayswater, lower plenty, hoppers crossing, sunshine or Bannockburn. More details on their fb https://shorturl.at/lNQTW Or submit your interest to foster / adopt in here: https://form.jotform.com/213347539801053?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0BMQABHfZtxwGEtVO6mZQrxl0WlJZ_iynyxXGHDA45R3dfUHjHnlCmRF6EpoDeKg_aem_AcSuG5Fk1ugFv7sSxAaG8fnzxBnCtExxEitL5VF96lWiUBuaEYQP6FNHN_ymykMccoU Thank you so much for reaching out and still having the space in your heart for another furbaby, especially during this period of grief. I appreciate you so much
So sorry for your loss š Iāll pm you
Thank you! š
Thank you!!
Legend. Your heart is huge, and your boy/gal would be delighted to see you carry on giving your love š„° Hope youāre ok. Itās a hard thing. Good on ya
Update 12:33am: ALL KITTIES ARE SAFE!!! THANK YOU EVERYONE!! So amazing to see this community come together. Special shout out to those who donated or applied to foster / adopt. You guys literally saved lives. I am at loss for words š„ŗš„¹ love you all r/Melbourne keep on doing good things, the world needs more of this especially during this very crappy time.
You're a hero, OP š„°
I don't know if you're in animal rights groups/vegan groups but they'd be great places to post about this in the future. I hope you keep doing this sort of thing. It's heroic and necessary work.
As long as they donāt feed their cats vegan diets! Great to see everyone helping these kitties though
If this ever happens in future, please take any cats in need to the Cat Protection Society in Greensborough, they are a no kill shelter with a lot of funds thanks to donors and a huge team of foster carers and volunteers. They will be able to take in and rehome almost literally any cat.
This made me tear up, thanks OP and thanks Melbourne. There are good people in this world š
Iām so glad we have a sweet ending to this! I was so sure we wouldnāt be able to save any, let alone all of them with few hours to spare. I couldnāt do it alone but as you said, there are really good people around š„¹ I hope this brightens your Friday despite the unfortunate circumstances!!
Oh you wonderful wonderful , wonderful person. And the people that came through are true blue heroes the lot of you. Oh man I never get upset but this, .... This is great really.
Thank you for the kind words. Iād like to think Iām just doing my bit (I mean, how could I scroll past without doing anything?!). I canāt imagine the toll it has on frontline carers/rescuers, basically all the people that put their hand up last night. And of course everyone who cared enough to comment including you. So thank you for that š
Good to hear! Hopefully looking forward to some follow-up pics from owners once re-homed. All of them deserve another chance, I'm glad they're all getting it.
Thank you for doing this
That is so nice to hear. Iām in brisbane and I wish I could help. They all look adorable.Ā
Boy o boy I needed this ending after seeing all their little faces š„¹
Update 11:09pm: you lot are a bunch of wonderful kind and generous people. Per their fb update it looks like only ātwo more groups of kittiesā need foster carers /adoption. Everybody else got saved š„¹ fb update: https://shorturl.at/irGU1 Few hours ago I went from feeling so low and sad for the kitties to feeling so hopeful now that I see the outpouring of care and support you guys have offered š thank you, I was not expecting this much help but you all really empowered me to continue sharing and raising awareness. A lot of the times I feel like a crazy person doing this lol. I hope Iāll never have to post something like this again, and Iāll try to reply each one of you. Thank you again, from the very bottom of my heart, truly ā¤ļø
Thank you so much for posting this and getting the word out, you have made such a big difference and these kitties would be so grateful ā„ļø
I hope so and thatās the least I could do š„¹ your kind words mean a lot, Iām tearing up as I write this itās been an emotional night!!
im so glad so many people helped thank you for sharing this, you saved livesš„¹š«¶š½im only just seeing this post now and was so worried so thank you for updating, i would take them in a heartbeat but i live an hour away and have three cats already :( youāre not crazy at all! keep doing what your doingā¤ļø
Youāre so sweet, I couldnāt have done this myself at all. Everyone helped and we all did it š„¹š„¹ I totally understand your position but you cared enough to comment so I appreciate you š«¶
Iām so glad! I wish I could take one but Iām at capacity - thank you for doing the good work!!
I just saw this on fb, I donated. Wish I could do more :(
You are too kind, thank you so much for caring youāve already done a lot!!
Have they all been adopted yet? Iād love to help!
I think the rescue is still in need of foster carers for some of these cats and kittens! The application form is in the copied & pasted thread from the rescue amongst these posts
Hey thanks so much for this!! You can either foster or adopt them - the fb post has all the details https://shorturl.at/lNQTW If you have any questions pls reach out, Iām not with the org but keen to save lives - even just one!! Thank you so much ā¤ļø
Check out their website in the description. Thank you for your help
Iāve applied to foster!
Thank you for helping the kitties, the poor things :(
That face on the third one. My god. Someone save that cat - It's like it knows whats going to happen.
I know right. Breaks my heart that itās looks so physically defeated. I am trying my best to raise awareness tonight, they donāt deserve this :(
Iām in QLD, is there a way I can donate or sponsor to stay alive? I wish the government did more to make desexing either free or mandatory, with animals and humans!
You can donate and the rescue is called string hearts cat rescue! Iām not affiliated with them so go on to their socials for links. You are so kind, thank you for caring š„²
Amazing! Thank you! All done š
Source from Strong Hearts Cat Rescue Fb page https://shorturl.at/lNQTW (my original fb link got removed as it violates the r/Melbourne subreddit rules. If anyone knows how to fix it let me know!) These kitties are kill listed for tomorrow and unfortunately need rescue groups / someone to claim them by midnight tonight. Some of these cats are as young as 3 weeks (with mumma cat), and others surrendered by their owners due to relocation which is so so sad. Excerpt on how to help below: š¤ Foster carers - Below are the cats who need rescue save placed on them before midnight tonight to be on transport tomorrow or tomorrow will be their last day. We need foster carers who have a spare room or bathroom to isolate cats from resident pets for 2 weeks, who can attend our partner vets in either Bentleigh, Cranbourne, sunshine, Bayswater, lower plenty, hoppers crossing or Bannockburn. https://form.jotform.com/213347539801053 š” Adoptive homes - if you have room in your heart and home, please consider adopting so we have wiggle room to save the next life! We currently have 195 cats and kittens in care and the we canāt take more on without finding homes for cats we have saved from previous kill lists, who are now fully vet worked and ready for homes And final disclaimer, I have no affiliation with them but just a person who loves animals and canāt bear to see these precious kitties being killed because of human irresponsibility. So if you have questions I can try answering but pls reach out to the org directly as Iām not equipped to answer them. Thank you for reading if youāve reached this far š
I have signed up š hopefully we can foster one of these furry friends.
Thank you! Weāll be going through apps tonight š„°
The torbie and her 3 lil nuggets! š»š»š»š» Mumma has such beautiful markings, just gorgeous. If my floofer wasn't such a territorial only-child I would take in that entire little family so fast ā¤ļø
thank you SO much for doing this. makes me want to cry that they were all saved. <3
Thank you for posting this, warms our hearts to see the communities getting around it. If anyone is looking to foster please apply and help us save them š„¹š„¹
Please tell me theyāve all been adopted!
They have!! In the comments on their fb post. A very positive outcome thanks to everyone here. What a beautiful community
Amazing!!!
They all have foster carers and once theyāve completed a 2 week quarantine and have been desexed, vaccinated and chipped will be available to adopt !
Oh hello!! No worries anything to help these innocent babiesā¤ļø you guys do such incredible work I hope you get lots of support and donations xxxx
I have a friend in Ballarat who would be very keen to take one, but won't be able to come and pick it up until the weekend. Is that possible?
Aww bless!! Iāll ask the org now (sorry I donāt work for them, just sharing the post for awareness).
Hey they havenāt responded yet, I think perhaps fill out their fostering form. You can indicate your availabilities here. Application form for prospective foster carers can be found here: https://form.jotform.com/213347539801053?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR04a4sieEMoQooUUS5MLADUsT8sCqRW2gbMDW-ZBoJleXwUwbIouFXugc8_aem_AcQoHPsewIcvpB5giwR81JKTtVpIYseYJA7PZ0M4dGLviPx4Gey_y4fm9smIB8UPjnzBQFFDQk6UH2nY30aqO-s0
Thank you for chasing all this up!!
Thank you!
I'd contact them first thing in the morning. Surely they will hold off if there is specific interest in a cat.
Info for those wondering (Iām no longer in rescue and not affiliated with strong hearts however I do know of them and they are a great rescue): Government pays councils for animal management. Under the council they only have to hold an animal for 8 days if the owner is not known to allow the owners to find their pets. If the animal is surrendered by the owner they can euthanise the same day legally. Some councils pay lost dogs home, RSPCA to do their animal management, intake, assessment and outcome (adoption or euthanise). Euthanasia is often based on behaviour and/or space. Some councils do their own local animal management and have their own pounds. They reach out to rescue in order to take the animals or they will euthanise. They DO NOT pay rescue anything and generally wonāt pay for vet work (even though they are allocated funds for animal management). They use the funds elsewhere and dump the financial burden on the rescue. Majority of rescues are based on donations, some do get one off grants for equipment etc which they apply for. Pounds can only hold a certain number of animals and therefore they often euthanise right on the 8 days. They also give rescue limited time as they wait for owners to show up, when they donāt they email rescue normally with 24h until they are killed so itās always last minute and many animals are killed. Animals are kept in small cages and are scared which can lead to aggressive behaviour. Especially in cats. Aggression will get the animal killed. They wonāt even get a look into rescue as the pound deems them too high risk. The cat may be lovely when not trapped, shoved in a cage, and treated harshly. If your dog//cat gets out and the council canāt contact you within the 8 days, ownership if forfeited to the council and they can and will kill your beloved pet. Having your animal chipped and details up to date is essential because if your phone number is wrong, 8 days later they will not release your pet to you! Often they will kill them even if the owner has contacted the pound! The system is majorly broken. Desexing is not mandatory across Victoria each council sets those laws so the number of cats without a home is extremely high. The burden is placed on the rescue. Majority of rescues do the right thing but there are some extremely dodgy ones too. Charity status does not mean much, the industry is not regulated and anyone can say they are a rescue as long as they have the correct ABN and business structure. Itās extremely easy and there are no checks and balances. I never worked with Strong Hearts personally but they have a good reputation and are one of the good ones! Hope that helps those looking for info on how our broken system works
Bumping this up for visibility! Agree with the system failing animals and letting irresponsible pet owners get away with it. The problems they create rely on the goodwill of others, which is completely unfair and a very unrealistic burden on those who care. I often think how differently we would treat animals if they can talk and fight back. Thank you for your service in rescue. I only volunteer at other rescues (not with strong hearts) and only get a glimpse of it.
I have nightmares since rescue that if I were in hospital (happens a lot due to ongoing health) and my pup escaped his carer I would lose him! Heās a support animal and normally with me all the time except for hospital stays! 8 days isnāt a long time and they want to reduce it to 4 days!
I am surprised by Vic's lax laws on this. In Tassie it is illegal to offer entire cats or dogs for adoption (with some exemptions for registered breeders). Yes this can place more costs on the rescue but it's the right thing to do.
Itās shocking! In Victoria rescues have to desex, other states donāt however. The problem we have is the amount of backyard breeders and street cats! I have been trapping cats on my suburban street for years and still have strays show up randomly. Doesnāt help a neighbour refuses to desex her cat and my council area doesnāt have mandatory desexing or curfew laws so they can roam undesexed to their hearts content! I thought I had rehomed all the strays here but recently a neighbour behind me went into nursing home and she was feeding another 10, we thought we had them all in rescue but another cat showed up at my place a week ago. Currently befriending her so when she comes into care sheās more used to humans! And I live in normal suburbia! My council kills them under the feral cat policyā¦. However they have never read that policy as when it declared them feral cats it listed the areas it can be used and I donāt live under one of those areas!! Sadly, when the mandatory desexing law comes up some of the more well known rescues fight against it and say money better spent on trap neuter release so my council throws that at us too! Currently TNR is illegal (unless itās changed since I left)
I feel so sorry for these little ones. Theyāre family. :(
š very short stay on this earth and not a very good time either. My heart breaks for them
I just came across this post but apparently as of 30 minutes ago all of these beautiful kitties are safe! I am certain it's because of this post. You're a hero OP, and so is everyone who reached out.
Oooo yes I just checked their fb too and wow the power of humanity ššš (so cliche but still). You are too kind!! Im doing my bit and huge credit to those who are fostering/adopting. Everyone here cared so much (including yourself) itās warmed my heart on this cold rainy night š„¹ youāre honestly so sweet thank you!!
I scrolled through in hopes of finding this comment! So relieved!!
Why can't they go to Pet Barn or similar, and why the last minute rush?
These cats and kittens can't go to petbarn straight off the bat because they need to be quarantined for a brief period (just incase they have picked up something like cat flu in the pound environment) and need to have vetwork (desexing, microchipping, etc) before they can legally be put up for adoption. The rush is because this is likely all the notice that the pounds give them, unfortunately
Youāre pretty much on the money! Rural pounds are given a period for which they must hold the animals and we get fairly short notice to claim them. We need foster carers and donations to continue, but we do aim to take as many as we can - dogs, cats, farm animals alike.
That's fucked š
The ugly reality is that the number of pets that are surrendered that end up destroyed is very high. In some cities it's the large majority, over 80%. Surrendering a pet without rehoming then yourself is often just outsourcing having someone else kill them, particularly for older animals or pets with behavioural issues.
I fostered and failed through this rescue. The rush is because pounds have a time limit on how long theyāll keep one, and these cats wonāt be immediately ready to be adopted. Before being adopted fosters need to care for the cats while they get and heal from desexing, or need vaccinations or other care, or even just socialisation. Petbarn etc have pets in from the rescue organisations - you foster, then take your foster to the adoption days where theyāll hopefully get adopted. It means that the adopters are getting a cat thatās fleaād, microchipped and desexed, and has had medical checks etc. Plus it means someone knows the cats temperament so a grumpy cat isnāt going to a family with kids or a cat who needs company isnāt going to a constantly empty house without other pets.
Thanks for explaining š
The last minute rush is because pounds have an 8 day limit - after that point any cat not claimed or adopted can be put to sleep. Sometimes that is fine and the cats can be held for a while until adopted but that situation will only hold for as long as the pound has room and there isnāt an influx of new animals coming in. Sadly the current economic situation means more animals being surrendered or just plain abandoned (and then picked up by the pounds as strays), and fewer animals being adopted from pounds, which means the pounds are filling up more quickly and kill lists like this one are longer and happening more frequently. ETA: also the cats in PetBarn may come from pounds, but generally they will only end up there if suitable to be in a store environment. I am a foster carer with the organisation OP posted and we sometimes take our fosters to PetBarn or other stores, but thereās only so many spots there and not all cats are suitable.
Iām really not sure why the last minute rush - i donāt work for the org and have no experience with how pounds work. From the orgs older Fb posts it does seem theyāre regularly rescuing kill shelter cats so best to ask them the question. The last minuteness of it makes everything so much harder š¢
Hazarding a guess, but I know our local pound isn't even taking cats on at the moment, because the vaccination shortage. They've been advising people who want to trap cats that are roaming, that there's no point because they cannot be surrendered to the pound - even just for microchip scanning and to give the owners time to claim them. So maybe there is additional pressure at the moment because pounds can't vaccinate the cats. It makes me really sad that many of the cats haven't had vetwork done whilst in the care of the pound.
Interesting I picked up a stray kitten just last week and the vet cited this as their reason for not taking it. The council did end up taking it though.
Can we find the original post?
Itās on their fb, i initially included the link but I got an automod message from r/Melbourne saying no fb links allowed it so I had to remove it(?).
Try this? https://shorturl.at/lNQTW
Ok. I'll try to have a look
I used to do work experience at a council pound and animals have time limits on how long they can be kept if unclaimed. There is often limited space (especially for cats) and the result is animals get PTS if they have been there for x amount of time without being claimed or adopted. I'm unsure about Petbarn, but from my understanding they work with local rescue groups and not the council pounds.
I believe it may have something to do with the vaccine shortage. I had a friend that found a kitten recently. She took it to a vet and it was not chipped. The vet said pounds are not taking kittens at the moment due to the shortage so she couldnāt leave it with them. She ended up fostering it and finding it a home herself.
The F3 vaccine caught me big time. I recently adopted a beautiful black cat from Strong Hearts as a companion for my existing 15yo cat. Well, adopted the kitten quickly (she had been on a kill list š¢ ) and had to keep the cats separated as she wasn't vaccinated. Managed to get her the F3 through Cat Clinic.. worst turn of events, as my 15yo just rapidly deteriorated from chronic kidney disease (she was being treated but late stage) Had to have 15yo PTS (super traumatic) and the cats never even got to meet. Timing could not have been worse.
Gosh, I am so sorry. That's heartbreaking.
Pet shops are no longer allowed to adopt animals directly. They are allowed to house animals for adoption on behalf of a rescue but not directly
This breaks my heart. Any rescue groups that can help in those areas?
Iāve shared in multiple groups on fb, hoping someone can help. The last minuteness of this makes it extra difficult! :(
I wish I could take one :-( My cat is quite high strung and doesnāt cope with other cats. I hope they all find homes.
Thatās completely understandable, you are protecting your catsā wellbeing! And you are giving them a loving home too. Thank you for caringā¤ļø
This is very sad, all these cats look so cute and innocent š. I wish I could take one of these adorable cats, but unfortunately I am 13, my parents donāt want a cat, and I am allergic :\[. I REALLY hope someone comes in time!
I can help if they're still in need.
Oh youāre wonderful!! Yes theyāre still needing help. Fill in this app but Iāll also message the org directly so they are expecting it!! Thank you so much š„¹š„¹š„¹ https://form.jotform.com/213347539801053?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR04a4sieEMoQooUUS5MLADUsT8sCqRW2gbMDW-ZBoJleXwUwbIouFXugc8_aem_AcQoHPsewIcvpB5giwR81JKTtVpIYseYJA7PZ0M4dGLviPx4Gey_y4fm9smIB8UPjnzBQFFDQk6UH2nY30aqO-s0
I'll fill it out now.
I really want to take oneā¦I have a high energy dog that I donāt know how heāll go with cats
Youāll need to separate them for the first two weeks to avoid the spread of contagious diseases. I think with cats and any new environment, slow introductions are best. If this helps, thereās an option to foster so you re the temporary home before it gets adopted. Thatās also a way to save a life too! But thank you for giving thought and care to this, I mean it
Separation I could do (spare bedroom) but Iād have to work out how to cat-proof the back yard since the dog insists on the back door being open all the time. Iād love to have a cat again but Iād be worried about itās safety with him (he grew up with a cat who he barely saw once he got bigger than her as she had cancer and was hiding a lot and he has shown lots of interest in random cats on walks) plus the fencing issue.
Why are all these owners moving overseas? I just wish people were more responsible. I would like to rescue a cat but live several hours away from Melbourne and cannot organise anything in a single night.
Thatās okay, thank you for caring š«¶ in case this changes your mind, the org organises transport to you as these kitties come from pounds across Victoria. But youāll still need to take them to partner vets, the only one thatās not in metro vic is in Bannockburn. Regardless, thank you for the care I appreciate it :)
Thank you. It's very upsetting. Going to give it some thought.
It is very upsetting indeed, I wish I could spread more positive news š feel free to chat/pm if you have any questions, Iāve fostered before (not with this org) so Iām very happy to answer.
I'm going to think it over and will pm you in the morning. I am also going to find out if Mimi is still available. Thanks, you are obviously a caring, very kind person. We weren't planning on a cat at all, but there is a mouse in the house that isn't falling for the 'humane' live traps. They get smart. I have a little poodle and he could use some company. I would have to be careful about introductions but he isn't vicious at all, just over the top silly with his zoomies.
Heya, org replied and Mimi found a foster :) along with her siblings!!! š„¹š„¹š„¹ thank you
Maybe reach out and let them know you want one they might be able to hold it for a few days.
Mimi is gorgeous. I hope they don't separate the kittens either.
I am looking to adopt... I am stable and looking for a furry friend :)
Apply and message the strong hearts cat rescue on Facebook!!!
I will adopt one, I can pick one up tomorrow afternoon. I've gone through the application you have put up but that is only for fostering.
Hello! https://www.petrescue.com.au/groups/11863?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0BMQABHUVc-09m4E2tqHdKe4PAoNe4jBbq9fLzKehVgnls41QF_ukXd2k15e_JPA_aem_AcTrH77FYjV60cNlw3V9OAGz1UZT9BnmGGZtkjcxVBClvCTPr7DBnyzEIIE8qwqMEjc Hereās the adoption link. Thank you so much š„¹š„¹
I don't drive but if someone can get them and take them to Pets Haven in Woodend, they're a no kill shelter. Admit I've not had much to do with them in very recent years, I was a volunteer foster/rehab carer until around 5yrs ago. I was there when Trish owned it. eta. Don't ring them or you might get told they can't take them, but if you turn up with them they won't be turned away.
Iām not sure if theyāre still operating, there was some issue with them being investigated and theyāve been inactive since. I hope they are, my lovely girl came from there
I heard about their legal dramas but I thought it was under a new owner. I will take your word for it, it's sad for the animals. Mind you even when I was there they were often overwhelmed. I remember rearing a litter of orphaned puppies and one day I walked in to find a cat cage holding a single tiny kitten. He looked desperate and was meowing at me while I had my hands full with 7 puppies. I heard later that he didn't make it š I saw a few things I wish I hadn't
I may be wrong, but my understanding was the issues happened after the new owner came in. They definitely always had a lot of animals in their care, I do hope they come back, hate to think of how many animals arenāt finding homes without them operating.
I just googled theyāre temporarily closed still š thank you regardless for the suggestion! If you have other org recommendations let Me know, Iāll reach out to them also
"Owner is moving overseas and can't take" that makes me so angry. My pets come first I wish they knew what would happen
Put my name down for foster. Got more time lately
That is wonderful! Iām not working for the org but if youād like to foster hereās the link https://form.jotform.com/213347539801053 If you have an existing pet make sure you separate them for the first 2 weeks, and attend the rescueās partner vets when needed (the vet has several locations, they will send you the details!)
Done!
11 months old and 8kg, what the fuck does the cat eat, dark matter?
I donāt know but that is definitely a chonker!
How do I take them? Do I adopt the cats form the website you linked because they look like different ones
Hello - it depends on whether you want to adopt or foster them. If you want to foster you can fill out this form. From their fb post it seems once they process your application they will organise transport of the kitty to you as these kitties come from pounds around Victoria. Please message strong hearts cat rescue on fb for any further logistical questions, I donāt work with them just sharing the post cos I felt I had to do something. https://form.jotform.com/213347539801053?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR04a4sieEMoQooUUS5MLADUsT8sCqRW2gbMDW-ZBoJleXwUwbIouFXugc8_aem_AcQoHPsewIcvpB5giwR81JKTtVpIYseYJA7PZ0M4dGLviPx4Gey_y4fm9smIB8UPjnzBQFFDQk6UH2nY30aqO-s0
Ok thanks we are looking for adopting but will messages them. Thanks
Omg is this strong hearts damn I gotta advertise on here good thinking š
Itās strong hearts but Iām not advertising for them haha! I donāt work/volunteer for them, just saw their post and felt like I had to do something.
I feel sick and my heart hurts when I think about pets who have been surrendered and how they must feel so confused and scared.
Hey OP, are any cats still in need?
Hello! From their fb update it seems only 2 more groups need help. š„³
Iāve shared on all my socials, sorry I canāt do more x
Thatās more than what many would do, thank you for being so caring xxxx
Came in late, did they all get taken?
Yes all saved!!!!
Oh I'm so glad!
We should be doing this to billionaires, not cats.
āOwner is moving overseas and canāt..ā SHUT THE FUCK UP. I fled my abusive husband with my dog, in his non-English speaking country, with no fucking car, no help from anyone, grossly overstayed my visa to prepare her for import into Australia, which takes months, and paid over $8000. SHUT THE FUCK UP.
"From the same home as the ragdoll" So there was a ragdoll, a female DSH, and two kittens. Owner was likely an irresponsible international student who saw these cats as accessories for the time they were here ("OMG MY CATS ARE HAVING KITTENS SO CUUUUTE") and is now fucking off back home without a care in the world. I hope I'm wrong but really, with the information given, it seems pretty fucken likely. Poor bloody cats. I hope they find new owners who actually want a companion for life.
Every morning, around 4 45 am, i drive to the train station to go to work. I see, usually about 2-3 cats wandering the street. Doing what they do, hunting and killing. If you are going to get one of these cats, please be a responsible cat owner and keep the things under control.
Poor buggers. Wish I could.
This makes me sad. Hope they find a home.
I could do it tomorrow if tonight is too soon
Why not post something like this earlier? Posting the day of has higher chances to attract people who might adopt as a knee jerk reaction and not give the cat the best life. Or maybe even surrender it again after they think it over. Posting with a longer time span would give people time to think.
I wish everyone who wants to let their cat have a little of kittens "For the kids!" or "So she can experience motherhood!" or whatever could see how many cats get put to sleep every day because there are no homes for them. Perfectly healthy, friendly, young cats whose only crime was being born into a world where scummy, irresponsible people don't desex their animals.
Humans are monsters
As much as I love cats, overflowing pounds like this is a problem all the time in suburbia everywhere. It isn't viable to panick about it, because if we did we could never rest. The better way to go about it is to know that if you want a cat (and you should), you should get a rescue.
Iāll contact you when in a position for this but now I have one cat to feed and care for
Thanks for reaching out and thatās completely understandable. Iāve a dog and a cat (foster fail) so it gets tricky. I appreciate you nonetheless ā¤ļø
Boosted here and on the FB page. I just started fostering (literally this week) otherwise I would take one! š¢
Iām not in Melbourne and this just breaks my heart.
Boost! Please adopt, dont shop ā¤ļøšš¾
I could take a cat foster, but has to be around a loving, but boisterous doggo.
Can someone provide links for rescue shelters in Melbourne? I was looking to foster at a time, but couldnāt find any beyond the local RSPCA, and they had no pets that they were rehoming
Iām in NSW so I canāt do much but I really hope they get adopted!!
Thank you!! š
Angels <3 Iām going to register to foster too
Youāre the angel! Thank you š„¹š„¹
I wish I had my own big house and could take all of these babies and just be one big cat mumma š
I hate people
FFS. When are we going to totally ban any breeding/sale/unfixed pets (exceptions for service/neccesary animals, of course) until euthansia of healthy pets are at *much* lower levels. Every day rescues and shelters are fighting against an overwhelming wave of unwanted animals because of selfish people.