Shelter Cat Finds a Job Helping Others

Jake takes a rare break.

No time to chat. Jake has got a busy work schedule.

The industrious feline is an irreplaceable member of the staff at the Fort Collins Cat Rescue (FCCR). The multitasking manager is a certified therapist cat, official shelter greeter and celebrity all rolled into one.

Life didn’t always look so promising for the beautiful Korat kitty, a former stray. He was returned to the animal shelter three times. However, he found his niche at the FCCR and flourished as its resident cat. He takes his jobs very seriously.

The Loveland Reporter-Herald reported that Jake, in his capacity as therapy cat, visits the local library to participate in story times with children. He also provides comfort for senior residents at nursing homes who love having him there.

"He's so unique," said Leslie Quitmeyer, Jake’s public handler. "His personality is so different. He's very mellow and social and patient.”

As official greeter at FCCR, the Reporter-Herald said, Jake welcomes all new cats that arrive at the shelter.

“He sits next to their cage and calms them,” said Mary Wolf, the shelter manager.

Jake’s many roles did not go unnoticed. He was featured on Animal Planet's Cats 101 after a producer saw a post about Jake's unique story on the blog, Writing Outside the Barn.

The Fall 2010 issue of Cat's Meow, FCCR's newsletter, mentions that the Korat is considered good luck. The numerous people Jake has helped might feel there is something true to this belief and that this is one very special cat.

photo credit: Fort Collins Cat Rescue Facebook page