Small charity, big impact
It was a chance encounter 17 years ago with three poorly eight-week-old kittens who had been dumped in a car park in Blyth, Northumberland, that set Christine Watson on her cat rescue journey. She got them veterinary treatment and since then she has rescued hundreds of cats over the years. Nine years ago, she decided to set up Claw Cat Rescue, a not-for-profit rescue that is based in Seaton Delaval, Northumberland. Christine is supported by seven dedicated and experienced foster carers.
Christine says:“I truly believe this is what I am meant to do.I am so proud of everyone who is involved with the rescue.There are some really lovely people out there who support our work and willingly donate towards our veterinary fees.”
Any cats who have health problems or due to their age simply cannot be rehomed, remain with their foster families. Often, the older cats are overlooked as it can be difficult to get insurance. Christine currently has six older but healthy cats who have been rehomed, but the rescue will pay for any veterinary treatment they require.This is so they can enjoy living in a loving family environment and live out the rest of their days in comfort.
One cat who certainly took her time to come into the rescue was Little Miss Mary who was rescued from St Mary’s Island, near Whitley Bay. She was first spotted there in September and nobody knows how she got there. Despite putting a trap out to entice her with food, it was the two resident cats who were quite happy to be trapped as it involved them getting extra food!
Volunteers from St Mary’s Island Wildlife Conservation Society, based in Whitley Bay, monitored Little Miss Mary’s movements and after 10 weeks she was finally caught by hand and brought to safety.
She was in a bedraggled state and looked like an old cat but was actually only about one. She was suffering from malnutrition, respiratory problems, and a heavy nasal discharge. So far, she is on her third course of antibiotics and is still poorly. She is a lovely little girl but her health issues are ongoing. She in the best hands being looked after by experienced foster carer Toni Poole.
Last year was a very difficult year for Christine as she was diagnosed with cancer and had to undergo chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but with true determination, as soon as she felt well enough,she took in a pregnant cat.She said:“It felt wonderful to see the kittens grow and watch their antics, it made me forget just for that short while.”
● For more information, visit the Claws Cat Rescue Facebook page.