Makaila Troy Volunteer Spotlight

I began volunteering for Furry Friends in June 2023. Eager to add a third cat to my family, I embarked on a mission to quell my feline yearnings. Opting to explore volunteering at a shelter as a potential solution, I discovered Furry Friends during my search for suitable cat shelters. Despite my initial intent to satisfy my cat cravings through volunteering, the inevitable happened: I ended up with a third cat anyway. It seems my love for these furry companions knows no bounds!

I undertake various responsibilities that contribute to the well-being of our feline residents. This includes the routine task of scooping cat boxes to ensure a clean and hygienic environment. Additionally, I am responsible for feeding and watering the cats, maintaining their living spaces through regular cleaning, and socializing with them. I alternate Saturday nights (roughly 4-6 hours a month, sometimes more if I pick up a shift). My most significant challenge is seeing cats arrive in a state of fear or anxiety, witnessing their physical and emotional struggles, and hearing about their past. Creating a positive and nurturing environment for them isn’t only a source of personal pride but a crucial component of our mission to enhance their overall safety and wellbeing. The highlight of being a volunteer are undeniably those heartwarming moment when those same cats find their forever homes, realizing that my efforts contributed to creating happy endings for them and their loving families.
 

I'm currently working as an operations analyst at a life insurance company in Portland. Additionally, I'm preparing to start college to pursue a degree in business management. At home, I’m fortunate to have the delightful company of three amazing cats: wise and charming 5-year-old Jan, energetic and playful 3-year-old Jax and lively and curious 7-month-old Belle. My affection for animals serves as a profound motivation for giving back. Engaging in activities that contribute to their welfare gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment and affords me the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share my same deep love for these beloved animals.

I'm particularly concerned about cat hoarding in my area. Addressing this issue requires community collaboration, education and support to ensure a humane and sustainable resolution. By promoting awareness and understanding, we can work towards creating a more compassionate environment for our local cat population.
 

I have a diverse set of interests that keeps life exciting. From baking and traveling to home renovation and trying new foods. I also find solace in nature through hiking and enjoy the social dynamics of board games.

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Furry Friends Volunteer Spotlights are compiled and written by Nomi Berger who is the bestselling author of seven novels, one work of non-fiction, two volumes of poetry, and hundreds of articles. She is a volunteer writer for Furry Friends in Vancouver, WA and also volunteers her writing skills to animal rescue groups in Canada and the USA.