It's not a public shelter - it's a no-kill rescue group.  They have almost
no resources - their only cage space is in the middle of PetsMart (which
donates the cages space only - no other food, medicine, or supplies).  When
the cats are not at PetsMart they are being fostered by volunteers (some of
the volunteers have as many as 30 at a time).  They rely on volunteers to
take care of the cats and rely on donations to buy food, medicine, and
supplies.

At this time of year (kitten season) they are simply overwhelmed.  They only
charged me $100 for all three cats (their normal charge is $85 per cat but,
again, at this time of year they're so happy to just find a home for a cat
that they were making deals).  That $100 wouldn't even pay for the
spaying/neutering I'd have to get, so I really don't feel cheated.

I knew what I was getting into before I ever agreed to take them (every cat
there had the sneezes/sniffles/runny eyes).  As contagious as URIs are, and
as packed in and overcrowded as the cats were, it would be a miracle if any
of the cats *DIDN'T* share bugs and viruses (virii??).

Ben and I will just tighten our belts and eat the cost - they will be *SO*
worth it in the long run!  ;>

Hugs,

CatNipped