Cat Sanctuary; From Hoarding to Rescue

Bannock Feral Friends plays a crucial role as a TNR group in the Pocatello area. They strive to stop the continuous breeding cycle, stop the birth of kittens born into hopeless situations, and stop the physical suffering of the stray and feral cat population of Pocatello and surrounding communities through humane TNR practices. Back in March 2023 they were called to a horrific hoarding situation in an abandoned,locked house where they had been living alone for approximately 5 years. The animals were found to be in deplorable living conditions and they knew immediately they had to be removed from the environment. The animals were severely neglected and desperately needed their help. Their poor physical condition was no doubt exacerbated by poor nutrition, lack of vet care and the horrific living environment. Almost all the animals needed urgent medical examinations and care.

Billie Misevcis, an animal lover and advocate as well an active volunteer of Bannock Feral Friends graciously opened her garage to all 15 cats because she and her sister Debbie felt the cats needed to stay together. Billie and Debbie worked extremely hard by building a catio and outfitted her garage for the cats with an electric fireplace. Her plan was to set up a living room of sorts where she could sit among the cats and help them learn to love. She could hardly wait for her first Thanksgiving, when she hoped to cook a big feast and share it with all her kitties. Sadly, Billie passed away suddenly on November 5, 2023. Due to the unfortunate passing of Billie, Bannock Feral Friends is in urgent need of a sanctuary to house the cats. The 15 cats cannot be separated as they are bonded and have colonized together, but have a tendency to be anti-social.

They have already spent thousands and thousands of dollars caring for the animals. This is why we are hoping to raise enough funds to build a small sanctuary which will consist of a large shed, foundation and catio along with funds to continue care for the cats. They need to hire people of different trades such as an electrician. The cost of caring for these animals doesn't go away as they will need continued vet care, food, litter, electricity for heating and cooling, amongst other costs.

Bannock Feral Friends dedicates endless time and effort to the Pocatello community and always advocates for these cats. The compassion, dedication and love they have for each and every cat shines through. Now is the time we need to come together for them as they have for all the animals, the animals who don’t have a voice and who have received nothing but the best care and love from this amazing group. Help us raise the funds for the sanctuary they so desperately need to properly care for the cats.