BASS LAKE — The EMC SPCA has a question for you.
“While you were in the garage looking for Christmas decorations, did you notice that big old ice chest you are no longer using?”
It turns out, the EMC SPCA just might have a use for it. They recently received permission from The Pines Resort owners to trap, neuter and return all of the feral cats who have lived there, and multiplied, for years.
The organization has a team who goes daily to care for the cats, and are gradually getting them neutered to stop the population increase. The volunteers are setting up feeding stations so the cats have regular daily meals, and since the weather is getting worse, the volunteers are also starting to set up discreet shelters where the cats can sleep and stay warm.
This is where you and your old ice chest come in.
“The first shelters the volunteers have built have cost about $50 each,” says the group. “We are looking for ice chests similar to this one which are easy to convert into comfortable shelters.”
The well-insulated chests require very little work to make them into a shelter.
“We need ice chests that are insulated, plastic inside and out, with no damage or cracks. They need to be large. The best would be 120 quarts. Coleman and Igloo both make this size. Some have attached lids, others have removable lids, both are acceptable. This size would measure approximately 40 inches by 18 by 18. The only work we need to do is cut about a six inch hole in the side and add a layer of straw inside.”
If you have an ice chest you are no longer using and would like to donate, please call Sharon at The Cat’s Meow, Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at (559) 642-6611.
“We can discuss what you have and make arrangements to get together,” Sharon adds. “Just think how much more room you will have for Christmas decorations, and how much better the life of The Pines kitties will be!”
