BREAKING: The Humane Society of the North Bay (HSNB) has just unveiled a state-of-the-art outdoor “catio” designed to enhance the lives of adoptable cats. This new facility allows shelter felines to enjoy fresh air and sunshine safely, marking a significant leap forward in animal care and adoption opportunities.
Located in Vallejo, the Ila Emerson Memorial Catio features robust wrap-around netting, providing a secure environment for cats to explore and relax. The multi-level platforms encourage them to perch and snooze at various heights, mimicking their natural behavior. Thanks to generous donations, the catio is also adorned with cat trees, sensory toys, and cozy bedding, offering a perfect retreat for the shelter’s furry residents.
Kristina George, a member of the cat staff, highlighted the catio’s importance: “Having the space to come out and roam benefits everybody.” This new environment aids in socializing the cats, with the goal of facilitating more adoptions. “Happy social cats get adopted,” she emphasized.
The catio honors the legacy of Ila Emerson, a beloved Vallejo resident and animal lover who left her estate to the Humane Society. The project took about seven weeks to complete, showcasing the collaborative efforts of local businesses like Foster Lumber and Golden State Lumber, as well as the expertise of Marin-based builder Roger Sierra and his son, Brooke.
With the completion of this facility, the HSNB can now accommodate a greater number of cats in a healthier, more stimulating environment. Previously limited to two indoor rooms, the shelter’s capacity of roughly 60 cats often led to stress and anxiety. Now, the cats can enjoy “a taste of nature,” as described by HSNB Director Carol Stillson.
In an exciting addition, starting November 1, the shelter will launch its annual adoption special, offering $50 off adoption fees for kittens and $25 off for cats aged six months and older. This initiative is particularly crucial for black and tuxedo cats, which face stigma during this time of year. HSNB Board President Joseph Hayden explained that, due to negative associations, adoptions for black cats are paused through late October to ensure their safety.
Once November arrives, the shelter will also provide an additional $50 discount for adopting pairs of cats, making it easier for families to bring home more than one furry friend. “We do our homework,” Hayden said, assuring potential adopters that the shelter takes its responsibility seriously. “We want to make sure it’s in the best interest of the animal.”
As the HSNB prepares for this new chapter in cat adoption, scheduled meet-and-greet events in the catio will allow prospective owners to interact with the cats in a friendly atmosphere, fostering connection and encouraging adoptions.
For more information about adoptions or to schedule a visit, interested individuals can check the Humane Society of the North Bay’s official website. Don’t miss this chance to change a cat’s life today!
