Saving as many lives as possible has always been the goal of Sun Cities 4 Paws Cat Rescue. Since its founding in 1996, 4 Paws has been a no-kill shelter. Cats and kittens under its care have never been euthanized without a compelling physical reason. Thousands have been saved – adopted, placed in foster care or allowed to live out their lives in the safety of its shelter.

Best Friends Animal Society, located in Utah, operates the nation’s largest sanctuary for homeless animals. It provides adoption, spay/neuter, and educational programs for thousands of shelters, rescue groups and other animal organizations around the country. This network partnership is committed to saving lives through collaboration and implementation of effective lifesaving programs.

4 Paws is part of Best Friends’ network and its ambitious goal of achieving no-kill status (90% or better save rate) throughout the entire country by 2025. Due to a dedicated staff, committed volunteers and motivated supporters, 4 Paws has reached that goal.

4 Paws recently received a letter and a plaque from Best Friends, acknowledging this significant achievement. The letter, from CEO Julie Castle, states in part: “This accomplishment represents so much more than a number. It represents a culture of caring and compassion. It represents innovative, thoughtful programming. And it represents extraordinary leadership. Please accept this plaque as a representation of your dedication, leadership and the incredible milestone you’ve reached on behalf of the animals we all love.”

Laura Parker, Shelter Manager at 4 Paws, couldn’t have been happier about the recognition.

“It means so much to all of us,” she said. “Everyone here works so hard. It’s fantastic to see it acknowledged. It makes us all proud of what we are doing.”

And the work continues. Providing food, shelter and medical care to an average of 800 cats and kittens each year takes a lot of money. Spay and neuter costs alone average over $40,000 a year. Charitable contributions, adoption and surrender fees, and grants are crucial to the success of the shelter. Volunteers are essential.

You can be part of this lifesaving effort. Join with 4 Paws and Best Friends to save every pet who can be saved and reach nationwide no-kill status by 2025. Volunteer, foster, adopt and donate.

Visit 4pawsrescue.org for more information.