Volunteer Caught Catnapping Helps Animal Shelter Go Viral And Raise Funds

A retired teacher who spends his days brushing cats at his local cat rescue has gone viral after the shelter shared pictures of him cat-napping with some of their rescues.

“We are so lucky to have a human like Terry,” Elizabeth Feldhausen, founder of Safe Haven Pet Sanctuary in Green Bay, Wisconsin wrote on Facebook. “Terry just came along one day and introduced himself. He said he’d like to brush cats.”

“Eventually it became everyday. He brushes all of the cats, and can tell you about all of their likes and dislikes,” she continued. “He also accidentally falls asleep most days. We don’t mind – Cats need this! Terry is a wonderful volunteer.”


Well, their post quickly went viral and when they told Terry he was shocked. “I tried to explain to him that he’s famous now. (I’m still shocked too.) He said, ‘Now if all of those people would just donate $5 to help the kitties, that would make such a big difference!’ He also said we should all pray for him to win the lottery so he can donate it to his cat friends.”

Safe Haven Pet Sanctuary

His response also went viral and soon the shelter was receiving an outpouring of support. So much so they were in disbelief.

“This is making SUCH a big difference already. Your support means the world to us. THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts to everyone who has donated in honor of Terry.”

The Safe Haven Cat Sanctuary rescues kittens and cats with special needs that are at risk for euthanasia elsewhere. They also take in cats who have lost their human parents.

Safe Haven Pet Sanctuary

“The kitties are rehabilitated here, in a cage-free sanctuary, and then made available for adoption,” the group explained. The cats all love Terry, even the anxious ones. The cats all get excited when Terry and his “magic brush” comes by. They also seem to love that they get to nap with him.

Feldhausen wants to come up with a trophy or award for Terry for their next Furry Tail Ball. She said, “I’m thinking something with ‘Honorary Cat Grandpa’.

We think that fits purfectly!

Disclosure: This post may include affiliate links.