Meet Sue, one of our amazing socializers at the Chico Cat Coalition! Sue spends several days a week at the shelter giving our cats lots of love, attention, brushing, and toy time. Keep reading to learn more about her story.

How long have you been volunteering with the CCC?

I’ve been volunteering at CCC for about two years ever since I visited the shelter for Zeus’s 23rd birthday celebration. I had heard about CCC prior and attended the Moonlight Meow dinners but was volunteering at another shelter at the time. 

What role do you have at the shelter?

I’m a socializer and visit regularly on Wednesdays and Sundays. I also help with fundraising for the auction and other events.

Tell us a little bit about your background as a vet tech and animal behavioral specialist.

I graduated with an Animal Science/Pre-Vet degree from Cal Poly Pomona. I worked as a vet tech after college before changing careers. I met a holistic vet in San Diego who became my friend and mentor and introduced me to the Bach flower essences and homeopathy. I continued my studies and became certified in the essences as well as animal massage, Reiki, feline behavior and shelter enrichment for cats.

How does your background help you socialize and work with the CCC?

I’ve been volunteering with cat shelters since the 1990s. My training has allowed me to use a “holistic” approach to socializing, which means seeing things from the cat’s perspective. I especially help shy and scared cats with their issues in a new environment. Surrendered cats experience fear and trauma, and many have only had one home or one person in their lifetime. 

What advice would you give families interested in adopting a new cat and bringing it into their homes?

I do consultations, and I stress the importance of using (in my words) a TPT approach. Allowing Time to adjust; Patience with behavior issues; and establishing Trust. 

Do you have any favorite moments or stories you’d like to share about the CCC or any of the cats?

Every cat is an individual and is special. I love to see the shy or scared adoptable ones come out of hiding and interact (Tabby and Cinder are examples). I also spend time with our original ferals (now referred to as family residents). They now trust me and look forward to brushing and treat rewards. Although coming in at different times, they have established a family in which members take care of each other. It’s been a unique experience in studying feline behavior. CCC’s Meet & Greet policy and the shelter configuration contribute to successful adoptions and happy forever homes.

Thank you for all you do for the CCC kitties, Sue!