cat depot news

Design can be used to improve the lives of animals
By: Peter Wolf

The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated. —Mahatma Gandhi

There’s little doubt that we Americans love our pets. According to the American Pet Products Association, we’ll spend an estimated $47.7 billion on our non-human dependants this year alone. And the growing marketplace of “designerly” pet products — showcased via equally designerly blogs (Moderncat for example) — suggests that the design community is paying attention. Despite our obvious affection, though, we’re killing 3 to 4 million dogs and cats each year in shelters<!--[if !supportFootnotes]--> (a term that, in this light, seems like a cruel joke). Although a wide variety of underserved populations have benefited from the recent design-for-social-change movement, the pet (over)population remains largely ignored.

There are exceptions, of course — mostly in the form of awareness campaigns encouraging pet sterilization, and improved shelter environments.

In the past few years, spay/neutercampaigns have taken on an edgier, more sophisticated look and feel — reflecting a keen understanding of their audience. Employing compelling graphics and clever copy, these ads and posters recognize a profound truth, however unsettling: whether we’re promoting pet sterilization or adoption from shelters, in the end, success is still largely a matter of effective sales and marketing.

In some cases, it’s niche marketing. In 2008, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) launched a campaign in which graffiti art was used to promote its mobile spay/neuter clinics. Working with the Tampa-based advertising agency pyperpaul+kenney, the ASPCA described its focus as “African-American and Hispanic inner-city male owners of large-breed dogs.”

Lori Weise, founder of the Downtown Dog Rescue, took on a similar challenge in South Central Los Angeles. She realized from the outset the importance of strong visual communication design. In order for her to connect with pit bull owners in the area — and persuade them to get their dogs altered — Weise needed to speak their (visual) language. She claims her ads and posters were among the first to feature photos of pit bulls (which L.A. Animal Services describes as “probably one of the most misunderstood breeds [with] the lowest adoption rate to prove it”) with “cropped” ears — “the breed standard in the hood,” she says—thus earning her credibility.

Other innovative examples:

> The Ad Council’s “Shelter Pet Project” sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and Maddie's Fund

> Best Friends Animal Society’s “Puppies Aren’t Products” campaign

> The “Buy One, Get One Killed” video produced by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) as part of its Animal Birth Control campaign

A recent survey sponsored by PetSmart Charities indicates that only 24 percent of Americans acquire their pets from animal shelters or rescue organizations. The reasons are varied, but many can be linked to the shelter environment itself. Here, too, the design community is making important contributions, transforming shelters from traditional dark and dreary “storage facilities” to welcoming, even cozy, “adoption centers.”

Mike Arms, president of the Helen Woodward Animal Center, had radiant heating strategically located in the floors of the facility’s dog runs. Ordinarily, the dogs would hang out at the back of the runs, making it more difficult for the public to connect with them — and ultimately take one home. By heating the floors only in the areas nearest the steady flow of people, Arms ensures that the dogs are front and center — and getting adopted.

Cat Depot, located in Sarasota, Florida, is another organization with a user-friendly approach. No longer confined to cages, the cats are free to roam the “pods” and “suites” of their new 10,000-square-foot facility. And a state-of-the-art air filtration system keeps the facility fur- and dander-free, eliminates odors and helps to prevent the spread of airborne viruses and bacteria. Shelley Thayer, executive director of Cat Depot, says that, thanks to the new amenities, the organization is on track to double its 2009 adoption numbers this year.

One of the more interesting — and potentially lucrative — opportunities for product designers interested in reducing the number of unwanted pets lies in the field of non-surgical sterilization. The Michelson Prize in Reproductive Biology, a $25 million challenge akin to the X Prize, was established to provide a much-needed boost to a historically underfunded area of research. Another $50 million is being awarded as grants for supporting research.

Although the initial interest is likely to come from the white-lab-coat crowd, designers may soon get a piece of the action. According to its website, the Found Animals Foundation, which is administering the funds, “intends to pursue further development and commercialization activities as needed to bring the winning product or technology to market for use in cats and dogs.”

There’s no doubt that these efforts have saved — and will continue saving — the lives of many animals. Still, in each of these instances, the designers are, for the most part, playing supporting roles; their work is serving the client’s agenda. This, it seems to me, is a missed opportunity. The design community needs to be tackling this problem head-on.

Can we really “design” our way out of a problem so complex, so intractable? I’m suggesting that we can — though our success requires that we think of design in some rather broad terms. We need to approach the “unwanted pet” problem the way IDEO approached a similarly ambitious — and, as a design problem, unconventional — challenge: childhood obesity. Working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, IDEO developed “Project Carrot,” a suite of concepts and prototypes “to address the ‘toxic food environment’ by promoting environmental, policy, and social change.”

Whether the problem is too many unwanted pets or too few adoptive homes, the cause of the problem is, at its root, human behavior. The way to turn the tide, then, begins with a deep understanding of the values, attitudes and beliefs that underlie those behaviors. And in this endeavor, quantitative studies take us only so far. Which is where ethnographic research — fast becoming a core skill for today’s designers — comes in.

Results of an extensive two-year study of spay/neuter decisions among pet owners in Louisiana and Mississippi illustrate the benefits of such methods. Published last year, the research — a collaborative effort of the HSUS, Priority Ventures Group, Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research, illume Communications, and Maddie’s Fund — was prompted by the region’s alarming rate of unsterilized pets, a fact made clear in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. In addition to the telephone surveys typically used for such studies, the researchers conducted focus groups and in-depth interviews with owners of sterilized and non-sterilized pets. Among the more intriguing findings:

>Owners of unaltered pets love their pets, and consider themselves responsible pet owners. Campaigns that imply otherwise will likely be ignored.

>Pet owners may associate low-cost spay/neuter services with poor quality; establishing trust is critical for the success of such programs.

>Effective messages about spay/neutering demand a certain level of seriousness — cute visuals and celebrity spokespersons undermine the message.

The posters, billboards, television and radio spots developed as a result of this work reflect — however subtly — a deep understanding of their audience that is simply beyond the reach of typical “agree/disagree” surveys. And awareness campaigns are only the most obvious outcomes — the insights gained could, of course, be leveraged for a broad range of design solutions (e.g., in the case of low-cost spay/neuter clinics: everything from the environment itself to the record keeping system and attire worn by the staff).

In Change by Design, IDEO CEO Tim Brown calls for “an end to old ideas” by way of a new, more accessible and inclusive approach to innovation: design thinking. “The rise of design thinking corresponds to a culture change,” suggests Brown, “and what excites the best thinkers today is the challenge of applying their skills to problems that matter. Improving the lives of people in extreme need is near the top of that list.”

My challenge to the design community, then, is to ensure that saving the lives of our companion animals is near the top of that same list.

Creative juices (and paint!) were flowing at the SOLD OUT Canvas n Cork event!

Over 40 aspiring artists, and some professional artists, painted their own cat masterpieces while enjoying beverages and appetizers and having a few laughs as well. Thank you to everyone who participated in the fun in support of the cats and kittens at Cat Depot. A big thank you to artist Joni DiPirro of Canvas N Cork for hosting the evening. Guests left with their own creations asking, “When is the next painting party?”

Cat Depot Expansion Education Center

Sarasota, Florida – (July 6, 2010) – Cat Depot, a nonprofit, no-kill rescue, adoption, education and resource center is getting bigger.

Construction is underway to add a second floor education center. The 10,000 sq ft state-of-the-art facility will add an approximate 700+ sq feet to accommodate community outreach programs. The expansion, like the original facility, will be hurricane rated and provide handicap accessibility, including a lift to the center. The addition will have a drop down media screen, kitchenette, bathroom and will accommodate 40+ individuals.

read the press release here

Local police sympathetic to "No Animal Left Behind"

When local police investigated a crime scene they found a frightened kitten in dire need of flea treatment and food. Police officer Mark Opitz, brought the homeless kitten to Cat Depot where vet techs attended to his needs. "Boris," named by officer Mark, is on the mend and available for adoption to a loving home. A huge round of applause to our local law enforcement. Boris and Cat Depot love you!

Cat Depot Aids ASPCA in Pennsylvania Rescue

Sarasota, Florida – (July 6, 2010) – Cat Depot welcomed 12 Pennsylvania felines after they traveled non-stop 48 hours to the no-kill, nonprofit rescue and adoption center. The East Coast dozen were part of 387 cats that were rescued and transported through several states where they were delivered to humane shelters.

read more of the story in the cat depot press release here
read aspca article here
view rescued cat photos here

Look Out World - Here I Come!

No one told Ryan that having three legs would slow him down - so it's not!

In fact, this boy is scampering around Cat Depot as only a kitten can - at full throttle.

Named after his rescuer, Ryan was found in an injured condition and  brought to Cat Depot where he received emergency medical care.

That was then, and well . . .  this is now.  Ryan is on the mend and looking for someone to love.

You can visit Ryan seven days a week at Cat Depot.

One stop shopping in the Cat Depot Retail Store!

Everything we sell is marked as low as possible to best serve our friends and the kitties at Cat Depot. This is guiltless shopping at its best!

We have everything you might need for your cat from toys to collars, plush beds, blankets and bowls, carriers and collars, litter pans and scratchers. Your cat will go crazy for the new toys that just arrived. Cats literally go “bananas” for the new banana or Pollock fish. And the pink and blue cigars are perfect for new adoptions.

Check out the colorful assortment of beautiful Laurel Burch purses, totes, silk scarves and wallets. They also make thoughtful gifts!

Keep a supply of Cat Depot Silver Spring coffee for yourself or pick some up as a hostess gift with matching gift card. Our coffee is fair trade organic and comes in whole bean or drip grind in four flavors including decaffeinated. Delicious!

Cat Depot t-shirts and hats are always in stock and available in adult and children’s sizes.

Just can’t decide or not sure what to get for that purrfect gift? Gift certificates are available!

Winner of 2010 Pets Choice Awards
Best Animal Organization and Best Domestic
Animal Rescue!

Cat Depot wins awards at the 2010 Natural Awakenings Natural Choice Awards! First place winner for Favorite Non-Profit Event/Fundraiser (Catsino Night), Second Place for Favorite Rescue Group, Third Place - Favorite Pet Accessory Boutique, and Honorable Mention - Favorite Pet Photographer: Marilyn Warner. Thank you to everyone who supported and voted for Cat Depot.

Haille, Courtney, Danielle and Delaney, raised $61 for
Cat Depot!

Haille, Courtney, Madeline, Danielle, Delaney

Maddie's Fund Veterinarian Dr. Julie Levy calls Cat Depot "the finest feline-exclusive facility we have seen."

Cat Depot is very proud that Dr. Julie Levy, a world renowned feline vet, chose to visit our shelter and gave us such a wonderful review, all of which will be helpful in benefiting the cats in our community. Read the full article.

Cat’sino Nautical Night - A Huge Success!!

What a night for Cat Depot!  Animal lovers and supporters gathered at the exquisite and newly built, Sarasota Yacht Club, for an evening of gaming, bidding and fun.

Ninety silent auction items were grabbed up and 10 spectacular raffle prizes were awarded to lucky winners.

High rollers abounded at Texas Hold’em and cheers emanated from the craps tables. A moonlit bay and the melodic music of steel drums dazzled the senses as waiters passed around delicious delights.

A colossal thanks goes out to our  sponsors, donors, volunteers, committee members and attendees for making this one special night for the cats and kittens at Cat Depot. See a slideshow of the event.
See more photos of Cat'sino 2010 published in HeraldTribune.com.

Cat Depot Wins Top Sarasota’s Pets Choice Awards 2010

Sarasota, Florida – (March 1, 2010) – Cat Depot is pleased to announce it has been named “Best Animal Organization” and “Best Domestic Animal Rescue” in Sarasota’s Pets Choice Awards for 2010.  The pet community had a chance to vote for their favorite people and favorite places in both Sarasota and Manatee counties; 20 “Best” categories were awarded in total.

In addition, Marilyn Warner, Cat Depot facility manager, was awarded first runner up for “Best Pet Photographer.”  “We appreciate the support from our friends in the animal rescue community," says Shelley Thayer, Executive Director. "This is such an honor and greatly appreciated by our hard working staff and volunteers."

Cat Depot, one of the largest nonprofit, no-kill feline rescue and adoption centers in the nation, is dedicated to helping abandoned, homeless and injured cats and kittens with medical care, food and love until they are adopted into forever homes.

A leader in feline health care and mental well-being, Cat Depot houses 150 cats and kittens in a 10,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility. Providing the latest in innovation, Cat Depot reaches out to community members and shelters throughout the U.S. and Canada as an adoption, education and resource center.

Cat Depot has changed the destiny of thousands of formerly homeless felines, currently living joyful lives because of donations and support by members. If you are interested in volunteer opportunities, or would like to make a donation or become a member and support saving lives, please go to support the cats or call 366-2404.

Home at Last

Read all about Cat Depot’s Six-Year Journey to a New, State-of-the-Art Location in the October/November 2009 issue of Sarasota Pet. Click here for article.

10th Life Rescued Cats Looking for New Homes

Cat Depot assists with 600 cats in need of help in Clewiston, FL
Adopt - Donate - Volunteer

Like every shelter and adoption center, Cat Depot had a full house and a waiting list of cats to get in when they heard about 10th Life Sanctuary cats in need of help. Knowing that it takes everyone giving a little to get a whole lot done, Cat Depot decided to take 10 cats and took 12 and then went back for more. Cat Depot hopes that other organizations will take heed and do the same.

Please help us place these loving and deserving cats in caring homes for the holidays.

After 2 1/2 wks in quarantine, the 10th life cats are moved into a free roaming pod.
It's a time of celebration and hopefully, adoption!

Your support is greatly needed in the form of donations, memberships, volunteers, beds and toys. These kitties could not be more loving. The minute anyone walks into their room they jump up and run to the front of their cages and reach through the bars, talk and purr!

Click here for more information about the 10th Life Rescue.

See pictures and descriptions of our adoptable 10th Life Sanctuary cats.

Around the country, people are selflessly working together to support the 10th Life kitties at Cat Depot.

Please check out and support their Take Me Home for Christmas Campaign

New Executive DIrector

The Cat Depot has a new
Executive Director, Shelley Thayer.
(Read all about her.)

Cat Depot’s New Adoption Center Opens

You, your friends and family are invited to visit. See pictures below and to the right. Check out an article in the Herald Tribune about our new center. (read article)

Movin’ On Up

Being the largest no-kill feline shelter in Sarasota has its advantages, but when you house over 150 cats, you need lots of breathing space. Therefore, it’s no wonder that Cat Depot is very excited about movin’ on up from 2400 square feet to a roomy 10,000.

The plan and design of Cat Depot’s new Adoption Center began in 2007 when Cat Depot’s founders began working with architect Barron Schimberg. Both parties began exploring, first hand and online, what animal shelters across the country were doing to promote the welfare of their rescued animals. The focal point of the design for Cat Depot’s new adoption center was to create an environment that kept the cats as healthy and happy as possible, while awaiting adoption. Barron’s interview with SRQ Magazine (April 2009) (read article) explained the importance of using environmentally friendly building materials in his design so that it could facilitate or benefit the welfare of the cats. As he so eloquently stated, “It’s the love for the animals that governs the design.”

Over the last two years, Barron created a state-of-the-art design for the building that incorporated eco-friendly building materials and ones that were moisture resistant. CPI day-lighting panels mounted on the masonary walls of the building diffuse light, save energy and sixty-five percent of the day, no artifical lighting will be necessary. To add to the health and well-being of both cats and humans, an air conditioning system that prevents pet hair and dander from circulating was installed. Also, highly reflective paint with low volatile organic compounds was used on the exterior.  

The majority of the cats will have the ability to free-roam in runs (pods), and each pod is designated for 12-14 cats. Several pods allow the cats fresh air and sunlight, and seating for visitors is provided inside each pod to enable adopters to play and socialize with the cats. More often than not, it is the cat that choses its owner. (See more pictures of our new building.)

See pictures of the recent construction (Note: When you open the link, click on "Slideshow" in the upper right corner to view a slideshow of the construction.)

Read about our new shelter in mysuncoast.com and see the ABC News video. (Don't forget to click on the video link when you see the article.)

Celebrate the Grand Opening of our new Building

Providing Community Service - If you are interested in signing up your children to complete Community Service hours when we complete our new building, please call Cat Depot (941.351.0824) or email us (info@catdepot.org).

Press

     YourObserver.com, January 21, 2010 - "Cat's Meow"
     YourObserver.com, January 21, 2010 - "Cat's Out of the Bag"
     YourObserver.com, January 7, 2010 - "Kitty Kingdom"
     YourObserver.com, Nov. 4, 2009 - "Key Residents Adopt Generous Outlook"
     SRQ Magazine, April 2009 - "Feline Fortress"

Cat Depot Newsletters

Check out what's happening at Cat Depot! Download any of our newsletters right here or call us to send you a hard copy.

Spring 2010: - Featuring "The Three Amigos" with reports on our Grand Opening and Cat'sino Night.
Fall/Winter, 2009: - Featuring "We've moved!", "Responsible for Positive Change ", "Who Rules the Roost? ”
Fall, 2008: - Featuring "Foreclosure" cats, "Cat'sino Royale 2009", "Ode to a Cat”
Winter, 2008: Features “Cats, Stress, and Ooops!”, “Tuffy Tangles with Toxo,” and “Pippin”
Fall, 2007: Features “How to Calm Your Cat,” “Frederick & Parrot,” and “Cats and Neurology”
Winter, 2006:Features “Animal Law: What’s It All About?”, “Angel Face,” and “New Year’s Resolutions for People and Pets”
Fall, 2006: Features “Kenmore and Maytag,” “Finding Your Lost Cat,” “An Indoor Reward,” and “The Importance of a Cat’s Claws”