When HOPE heard that one of our rescue partners, Santa Cruz County and Animal Control, was dealing with a hoarding case involving over 80 animals, we made the decision to help. Without hesitation, we mobilized—thanks to The Pup Pickup’s transport van—and I, along with longtime volunteer Shiloh Walkosak, drove to Rio Rico.

From that home, we rescued 21 cats and 1 dog. While most of the cats appeared healthy, the conditions they were found in were heartbreaking —bad enough to prompt Animal Control to intervene. Because HOPE is a no-cage sanctuary, we took in many of the older, undersocialized cats who otherwise might not have had a chance. To protect our current residents, we sealed off one of our rooms to house the newcomers, giving them a safe space to recover.

The real work begins now. Over the next week, these cats must acclimate and de-stress before we can prepare them for adoption. Each one will need FeLV/FIV testing, deworming, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgeries, and behavioral evaluations. And then there’s Louie—the young, sweet Chihuahua mix—just waiting to curl up in someone’s lap.