Hi there! I'm Nicci, founder of Poly Paws Rescue & Sanctuary, and I'll be upfront with you: I started this rescue because I am physically incapable of walking away from an animal in need. My family has accepted this about me. The cats have not complained.

Every animal that comes through our doors has a story. Some of them are scared. Some of them are scrappy. Some of them walk in like they own the place and immediately start judging our furniture choices. But every single one of them deserves a clean, safe, comfortable space to land while they wait for their forever home, and that's exactly what we're working to give them.

We're raising funds for a CDE Model s515F two-level enclosure, and before you ask, yes, I researched this extensively. This is not a wobbly plastic thing from a discount bin. This is a commercial-grade, American-made cage built for serious rescue work: 14-gauge galvanized steel, black PVC coating, two full levels, solid floors, built-in shelves, two access doors, and casters so we can actually clean the space properly. It's the kind of equipment that professional shelters use, because animals in transition deserve the real thing, not something held together by hope and zip ties.

At $2,725 (this includes shipping), it's a significant investment for a small rescue that runs entirely on donated time, donated supplies, and an unreasonable amount of heart. But here's what this cage actually means:

More animals housed safely and humanely at one time
Better separation during intake, recovery, or those first few "let's figure each other out" days
A calmer, more organized environment for our volunteers and fosters
More lives saved -- because capacity is everything, and every extra space means another yes

Picture the cat who got dropped off at a shelter because their owner lost their housing. Or the one found outside in January, thin and terrified, wanting so badly to trust someone again. They don't need much. They need warmth, safety, and someone to show up for them. That's what Poly Paws does, and that's what this cage helps make possible.

If you've ever loved a pet, rescued one, or been absolutely destroyed by a pair of sad eyes looking up at you from behind a kennel door, you already understand why we do this. And if you can chip in, even a little, you are officially part of the Poly Paws family.

Thank you, from the bottom of my very cat-covered heart.

With love, Nicci & the Poly Paws family

Two Levels of Love: Help Us Give More Animals a Safe Place to Land

More space means more second chances -- and we're not done saying yes.