For many cat lovers, particularly the elderly, worrying about the future of their much loved felines after they are no longer able to care for them can be very depressing. Over the years, AAPS has always tried to help. However, it was obvious that the Shelter environment was far from ideal as a permanent residence. It was with this in mind that the idea of a cat retirement home evolved into the Homeleigh Cat Retirement Village, and in May, 1993, the first residents moved in.
One of the most satisfying comments that human visitors to the Village make is, "Oh, it's just like a real house!" and that is exactly how it was designed to be. Because most of the cats who move into the Village are stressed to some degree by the upheaval of losing their owner and home, it is important that the Village provide an environment similar to the one that they have left behind. There is a cozy sitting-room with chairs, baskets, floor rugs and, most importantly, a heater (which is very popular with our residents). The kitchen has the usual furnishings, including a large cupboard full of the residents' favourite food and special treats. All tastes are catered for! The fully enclosed garden provides a safe and interesting area for the cats. There are bushes which provide shade and hiding places, and lots of space to relax on sunny days.
The Retirement Village is best suited to older cats which require a safe, loving and comfortable environment to live in once their owners are no longer able to care for them. The residents are looked after by experienced and caring people, including our full-time veterinarian.
To qualify as a resident in the Village, a cat should be at least 8 years old, and its owner must no longer be able to care for it (e.g. because he/she needs to go into a nursing home, or has died). The cat must have a satisfactory health status (free from feline AIDS and Leukemia). We also need to be sure that the cat will integrate into the existing group within the Village. This is usually not a problem, as the cats are given ample opportunity to settle into their new environment.
Currently, a donation/bequest of $5000 is required to cover expenses incurred during the remaining lifetime of the cat. A formal agreement (copies of which are available at the Shelter) nee ds to be completed by the cat's owner or representative before the cat can take up residence.
If you would like to arrange a visit, or need more information about the Village, please ring Margaret at the Shelter on ph (03)9798-8415 or (03)9798-8044 (or leave a message if she is not there).
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