Hoarding Knows No Age

Here we go again!

Today, a 90 year old women was brought to the shelter, by her neighbor, to sign up for our spay and neuter program. She wreaked of cat urine. ......RED FLAG #1 !!!!!!! After she seemed somewhat confused, Denise asked her how many cats she was signing up. She replied, " 10 or 11 males and 7 or 8 females". Denise asked her where she kept theses cats and she said, "My condo". .......RED FLAG #2 !!!!!!! And further discussion led to a litter or two. So, with great concern, Rick asked if could follow them home and see the numbers for himself. The lady agreed.

It was a nice looking condo in Tarpon Springs, at least from the outside. The approach to the front door led to an all to familiar odor. The stench of a hoarder.

Once inside, the nightmare truly began. Cats were everywhere and so was their feces and urine. The place was a mess., not fit for man nor beast. A search of the premisis turned up around 26 cats, although counting was difficult with the kitties bouncing off the wall. The 90 year old refused to give up any cats and so know we move forward with the authorities. We have contacted Children's and Family's Service. We know we must remove the cats but what about their 90 year old owner? How do we deal with her? How do we keep her from being thrown out on the street because she doesn't own the condo, she rents? How do we give her some dignity when all is said and done?

This is a lot for a goose to ponder. Help!