Brigid’s Crossing Local Cat Sanctuary Helps Heal the Circle of Life
by Lee Walker B
rigid’s Crossing Foundation is a no- cage, no-kill, holistic cat sanctuary located in Naples; a refuge of “last resort” that mostly takes in unadoptable cats from other animal welfare organiza- tions. “Animals are considered unadopt- able for a variety of reasons that can be as simple as not being a kitten,” says founder Heather Burch, who adds that unfortunately, most individuals are not enthusiastic about adopting an adoles- cent or adult cat.
Proud of Brigid’s contribution to the community and dedicated to continued learning as well as public education, Burch enjoys applying her knowledge and compassion to an ac- tive adoption program that finds homes for cats. “We’re a hands-on, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has had to spend many years working with behav- ior and health issues that others have found to be unmanageable or without cure,” advises Burch. “This has led us to an in-depth understanding of a pet’s emotional and physical issues.” For individuals that feel a natural connection with animals, it is always shocking to hear a pet owner call to surrender their cat of 10 years. “Many rescue groups are unable to answer their phones, because they do not have the staffing, time or space to handle the amount of homelessness,” notes Burch, who adds that there is not enough space in the nation’s shelter groups and rescue organizations to house the num- ber of animals in need. Consequently, three to four million cats and dogs are euthanized every year, according to statistics from the Humane Society of the United States.
In Burch’s opinion, the killing can 28 Collier/Lee Counties
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be stopped with public support, spaying, neutering, adopting from local shelters and giving a home to a stray cat. “I also believe that there are more than enough homes in our community to house homeless animals,” says Burch. Because Brigid’s does not usually accept animals from the general public, the foundation works at keeping pets with their owners. Resources, educa- tion, networking and hands-on experi- ence enable Brigid’s to help individuals see the heart of pet issues and resolve challenges. The goal of the foundation’s outreach program, Friends for Life, is keeping people and animals together on a shared path.
Animals that do find a home at Brigid’s temporary location enjoy an indoor/outdoor environment on the property of a foster volunteer. A unique cat fencing system allows cats free ac- cess to climbing trees, digging in the dirt, lounging under bushes and plants or sleeping inside one of the houses and enjoying the luxuries of home. “We are looking for funding to purchase a permanent location,” Burch notes. When the foundation cannot take an animal due to lack of space, they reach out to a network of organiza- tions outside the area. Recently, when Brigid’s was full, one volunteer was able to place and deliver a blind and deaf cat, as well as two FIV-positive cats, to an out-of-state sanctuary. “It’s all about relationship, working together as one family, one voice, one heart and healing the circle of life,” advises Burch.
For more information or to volunteer, make a donation or adopt a sanctuary kitty, contact Brigid’s Crossing, 239- 591-8425 or visit
Brigid.com.
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