The Goathouse Refuge is another rescue group that has been joining us at Spring Fling for several years now and we are pleased to have them attending again this year! Their Spring Fling regular Julie, says that she loves the event and always enjoys seeing all the different non-profit groups and vendors, and of course, all the dogs!
Though the name brings farm animals to mind, Goathouse is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, no-kill animal sanctuary that is "dedicated to providing cage-free care for cats regardless of age, medical issues or disposition until a permanent loving adoptive home can be found." For those who may not be suited to life in a typical home, whether because of medical issues or feral cats who prefer to stick to their wild ways, Goathouse is their permanent home where they can live as they please and be loved and cared for just the way they are.
Founder, Siglinda Scarpa, established The Goathouse Refuge in 2006 and continues to be an avid supporter. You can see her pottery and other work in a gallery at the refuge. Additionally, they sell coffee and all proceeds go towards care of the cats!
As of 2022, The Goathouse Refuge is shifting their focus to bring attention and aid to several groups of cats that are more underserved and traditionally overlooked; those who are older, or semi-feral, or who have special needs. These cats do get adopted but much less frequently than young cats who are "easy" to care for. As a result, this population ranks among the highest portions of euthanized cats in our nations shelters.
"Consider the cats who have been faithful beloved companions for many years, only to be put out in the street or taken to a kill shelter when their humans can no longer care for them. Our goal will be to bring public awareness and sympathy to this group of cats, so that these animals receive the dignity and respect they have always deserved and so often have not received. We hope that this new focus as a place of last resort will change the discourse about and treatment of our elderly feline companions."
Of course, all the cats that currently call Goathouse home, even outside the populations of their new focus, will continue to live there and be cared for until they find an adoptive home. So if you are looking for a cat or two to complete your family, check out the cats at The Goathouse Refuge! You can stop by in person on Fridays by appointment, and Saturday & Sunday from 11:00am to 3:00pm.