OSHKOSH, Wis. — Every day nearly 30 animals leave Wisconsin Humane Society shelters to go to their permanent homes.
What You Need To Know
- On Sunday mornings, the Oshkosh Area Humane Society (OAHS) has zero volunteers
- There are about 13,000 adoptions every year at the Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS)
- More than half of animals at the WHS need extra medical or behavioral support
Cathie Kissinger has volunteered at the Oshkosh Area Humane Society (OAHS) for 10 years. She said she loves all animals but has a passion for cats.
“People think they’re aloof, but they’re, they’re actually very affectionate, and really bond to the people that they live with,” Kissinger said.
If Kissinger’s not coaxing a cat from a cubby, she’s getting her feline fix from other places.
“Totally enjoy cat videos. They’re so funny. And that’s the other thing. Cats are funny. They have very distinct personalities, and they do a lot of crazy things,” Kissinger laughed.
These cats have lots of love to give, but on most weekends, there are very little volunteers to return that affection. On Sunday mornings, a shelter spokesperson said there are zero volunteers.
“The cats are emotional beings and they express many emotions. One of them is the need for touch, the need for affection, just to make their stay in the shelter a little more bearable for them because it’s not easy,” Kissinger said.
Tim and Ashley Bergan are helping to fill that need. They’ve been volunteering at the Oshkosh Humane Society for five years.
Tim Bergan is also a doctor and said playing with cats is a stress reliever for them both.
“I find it kind of therapeutic. Just come and help the animals that need our help, and it’s a nice break from the regular happenings of the week,” Tim Bergan said.
Ashley Bergan is also a health care professional. Caring for others is something she loves to do and volunteering at the shelter has been a perfect fit.
“There’s actually a lot of research about cats becoming depressed without lack of interaction. So the play is really important for them to stay here. They’re happy, playful selves. So we’re happy to contribute to that,” Bergan said.
Volunteers are also needed to work with other animals, like dogs, rabbits and guinea pigs. A shelter spokesperson said there are 60 cats, 22 dogs, four bunnies and five guinea pigs on site.
A light stroke on the head may be enough affection for some cats, but Kissinger said others need much more. She said it’s these moments of tenderness that make volunteering worthwhile.
“I feel like I make a difference for them, but they make a difference for me too,” Kissinger said.
The Oshkosh Area Humane Society and many other shelters in the state are always seeking volunteers.
