Jaina Spagis Leads Efforts to Rescue Feral Cats in San Bernardino

The couple's journey into cat rescue began in 2013 when they moved from Canada to South Los Angeles and discovered a stray cat and her kittens in their backyard. This experience heightened their awareness of the number of stray cats and the lack of spay and neuter services in their area. Spagis noted, "If you aren't looking for cats, you might not see them. But as soon as you do, you see them everywhere, and they're in such great need."

After researching ways to help, they learned about the trap-neuter-return (TNR) method, which involves humanely trapping community cats, sterilizing and vaccinating them, and returning them to their original locations. In 2016, upon moving to San Bernardino, they found a stark contrast to Los Angeles, stating, "There are no programs, no people helping the cats here. And so quickly, it became unattainable to fix the cats out of our own pockets."

To garner support, the couple created an Instagram account that eventually evolved into the nonprofit organization Cats of San Bernardino, established in 2019. The organization focuses on trapping and sterilizing cats, providing medical care, feeding existing colonies, and facilitating adoptions. Since tracking adoptions began, they have placed over 2,000 cats and kittens in homes.

Spagis highlighted the importance of TNR, saying, "The more cats that we can get spayed and neutered, the fewer kittens will be born on the streets to suffer. Breaking the continuous cycle is really important to us." The organization aims to sterilize at least 20 community cats each month and sponsors veterinary appointments for around 40 cats monthly, covering necessary medical services for residents who cannot afford them.

Cats of San Bernardino supports 14 outdoor cat colonies near Spagis' home, providing daily care for 10 of them. Friendly cats are prepared for adoption, while those with injuries or disabilities unsuitable for outdoor life are brought into the rescue. Spagis believes that "any friendly kitty should be on the streets" and deserves a home.

New arrivals undergo a two-week isolation period to prevent disease spread. The organization can handle complex medical needs due to the facility's resources. Despite the emotional toll of losing cats that arrive too sick or injured, Spagis remains committed to offering care and comfort to all. "Every being deserves to leave this world with dignity," she remarked.

Healthy adoptable cats are housed in the couple's "Healthy Kitty Club" until they find homes, with the organization actively promoting them through social media and monthly adoption events. Cats are placed with families throughout Southern California and even as far as Canada and France. Updates from adopters often bring joy, especially when seeing cats thrive after difficult beginnings.

Cats of San Bernardino relies on donations from its social media audience, which has grown to over 3.5 million followers. The couple documents each cat’s journey on social media, emphasizing transparency in their rescue efforts. Spagis stated, "If you're just showing the happy ending, then you aren't really educating anyone on what's going on in the world of cats."

Spagis envisions expanding their operation into a larger facility, referred to as a "cat ranch," which would include dedicated spaces for adoption and medical services, as well as enclosures for feral cats. This move would help separate their home life from their rescue work. Ultimately, she sees this mission as fulfilling, stating, "They give me a sense of purpose. I see cats like I see people. They all have different personalities. They all have worth."

For those interested in supporting their efforts, more information can be found on the Cats of San Bernardino website.