Local cats will do chores for room and board

By: | WSLS 10
Published: November 10, 2008

A local organization is putting cats to work to help give them a home. “Barn Cat Buddies,” a program through the Franklin County Humane Society, gives feral cats and those who’ve been in shelters to help out around the house.

“Never Too Late Stables,” in Wirtz is living up to its name, giving cats a second chance at life and participating in the program with several cats.

Diane Novak is the program director.

"We feel that if cats could write a want ad, they would say 'will mouse for free room and board.' And these are the perfect rodent control technicians,” Novak said.

Novak says the cats are natural hunters given to owners who need pest control – for example, in barns. The only thing the program needs is money for spaying, neutering, and vaccinations.

"We still have to pay for all the spays and neuters. All the mailings we do, our cell phone usage, our mileage - everything is is done by myself or other volunteers,” Novak said.

But lately with the economy, she says they aren't getting as many donations as they used to. A program they hope will save these cats' lives.

"Because we feel every life has meaning and value that there's no reason for any animal - cat or dog to be euthanized,” she said.

Instead, earning a home and even helping out around the house.

To send donations, you’ll need to specify that it’s for “Barn Cat Buddies,” at Franklin County Humane Society, 18401 Virgil Goode Highway Rocky Mount, VA 24151.