Sophie is one of many furry friends in need of family (photo courtesy of Denver Dumb Friends League).

Cats of the two-legged variety get creative at last year’s event (photo courtesy of Denver Dumb Friends League.)

by Lorraine Masonheimer

There will be a little something for everyone at the Buddy Center's first Cat Crawl - including adoption, face painting, carnival games, food and beverages, shopping for that special feline, and classes about cat behavior. Staff specialists will be on hand to answer questions and offer advice about litter box and scratching problems, socializing cats and wellness.

Cats are in great need of loving, permanent homes. Each year, thousands of cats and kittens are given to shelters like The Buddy Center. “Many kittens are born during the warmer months,” says David Gies, member of the Metro Denver Shelter Alliance and executive director of the Animal Assistance Foundation. “We're hoping to find homes for hundreds of cats and kittens at this year's first annual Cat Crawl.” The Buddy Center, a member of the Metro Denver Shelter Alliance, is participating in this metro-wide event.

To become a forever family for these needy kitties or to learn more about a personal pet, the doors open at 10 a.m. The Buddy Center is located at 4556 Castleton Court in Castle Rock. Admission is free. For more information on the Cat Crawl and to see an event map, visit www.SaveRate.org or call 303-751-5772.