Fall River Shelter Enhances Cat Living Conditions with Purrfect Spaces Project

This initiative received a significant boost from a donation made by a Dartmouth woman in memory of her late husband, Alan C. King, who was a paramedic/firefighter for 37 years and passed away in June 2025. A plaque honoring King now adorns one of the new cat rooms, allowing the felines to climb, play, and enjoy their time at the shelter.

Lisa King, who was married to Alan for 26 years, shared that her husband was passionate about animals and believed in living fully. She felt the Purrfect Spaces Project resonated with his values. “These animals can play, they can rub, they can snuggle with each other,” she said.

During a recent visit, the new environment seemed to benefit the cats, as they actively engaged with the multi-tiered suites and interacted with each other. The revamped living spaces also feature a design that separates litter boxes from food, enhancing the hygiene for the animals.

According to John Panarese, executive director of the Animal Rescue League of Fall River, these cat suites provide crucial enrichment, especially for animals already experiencing stress from shelter life. “We have metal cages; most shelters have them. But I don’t think they’re very humane,” he said, emphasizing the importance of addressing the emotional needs of the cats.

Panarese noted that the comfortable environment created by the suites has positively impacted adoption rates, as potential adopters are more inclined to choose cats that appear happy and healthy.

Currently, the shelter houses about forty-five cats and kittens, all waiting for their forever homes. Those wishing to contribute to the Purrfect Spaces Project can do so through the shelter's website at www.arlfr.org.