For 14 years, Peter has been a dedicated part of the Cat Depot family. As Cat Depot’s longest serving volunteer, Peter has logged over 7,000 hours since 2011. After he and his wife lost their beloved cats, Peter found comfort in being around cats again and helping them socialize during a large rescue that summer. What began as a way to spend time with cats quickly became a lasting commitment to helping thousands of cats find brighter futures.
Today, many of our adopters know Peter’s work before they ever meet him. As Cat Depot’s volunteer photographer, Peter understands that a great photo can be the first step in helping someone fall in love with a cat. His goal is simple: capture each cat’s unique personality so potential adopters can make a connection before they even walk through our doors. Photography may be “just a hobby” to Peter, but countless successful adoptions say otherwise!
The Lensman Behind the Camera
A retired electronics engineer who has called Florida home for 30 years, Peter grew up near Chicago and has been a cat lover for as long as he can remember. Cats were part of his family throughout childhood, and they continue to be a big part of his life today.
His current feline companion is Minx, an 8-year-old foster fail who stole his heart. Peter fostered Minx and her kittens, and later brought just the kittens back to Cat Depot to find loving homes. In fact, in 2017 alone, he fostered six different litters of kittens!
The Many Hats of a Cat Depot Volunteer
Over the years, Peter has worn many hats at Cat Depot, serving as an ambassador, helping with adoptions, fostering kittens, and now photographing our adoptable cats. One of his favorite memories is a shy three-legged tortie named Carmen who slowly learned to trust him and only one other person. Was it luck? Peter won’t call himself a cat whisperer, but he does have one secret: “go slow and be patient.”
Peter’s kindness, dedication, and over 7,000 volunteer hours have made a lasting impact on Cat Depot and the cats we serve. Thank you, Peter, for 14 incredible years of service, compassion, and for helping our cats put their best paw forward every day.
Volunteers are the heart of our mission
Each month, about 60 volunteers contribute at least 3,000 hours to care for the cats and kittens at Cat Depot and our numerous events and outreach activities. We have volunteer opportunities for individuals, high school students and groups.
General Volunteer Orientations are held month.
During orientation, attendees will learn about volunteer roles, expectations, safety guidelines, and next steps for training. These orientations are designed to ensure that every volunteer feels informed, prepared, and confident before getting started.
If you are passionate about helping cats and making a difference in your community, we invite you to sign up for an upcoming Volunteer Orientation and begin your journey with Cat Depot.
To reach our team directly, please email volunteer@catdepot.org
or call (941) 366-2404 ext. 303.
