At this time, Blueberry Heaven Sanctuary is unfortunately at capacity and is not open for intake of new residents.🥺
Blueberry Heaven Sanctuary provides permanent residence to senior, special needs and hospice cases as well as at risk community cats. We generally do not take in kittens, or healthy, young owner surrendered cats.
Please note that surrender fee is minimum $1000/animal, and $5000 for a geriatric/hospice/special needs/medical cats. While we are not in a position at this time to accept any more cats, generally the age limit is 14 years old and above (we don't take in young, healthy, adoptable cats - this is a sanctuary for those who have no place to go).
Does BHS accept volunteers?
Yes! Volunteers are welcome, please email/text/call to schedule a visit. Keep in mind that volunteer work involves primarily cleaning/washing litter boxes, vacuuming, feeding cats and folding laundry.
Does BHS accept rabbits and/or guinea pigs?
No, BHS is strictly a cat sanctuary.
Does BHS accept puppies/dogs?
No, BHS is strictly a cat sanctuary. BHS is not set up to take in dogs or puppies.
Does BHS provide TNR?
No, at this time, BHS does not have the funds or resources to support TNR programs, but we hope that in the future we can participate in this important community service.
Does BHS adopt out cats surrendered to the sanctuary?
No, BHS does not provide adoption services - all cats who arrive at our sanctuary remain as permanent residents.
Does BHS have fosters?
No. BHS does not work with fosters because our cats reside permanently at the Sanctuary.
Does BHS take in abandoned kittens?
No, BHS does not take in kittens; should you find kittens, please ensure first that the mom cat is indeed not coming back, as often the mom will leave kittens to find food and may return in a few hours. If you are certain the mom has indeed abandoned the kittens, please do the following:
1) foster the kittens until they are at least 8 weeks old and then surrender to Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando or Orange County, who will in turn ensure safe adoption. You will have to sign up with them first to ensure they will take your kittens once they're old enough. They will also provide you with food and supplies, so it's worth taking this route if you find yourself in this situation.
2) If you cannot foster the kittens, please immediately surrender them to Orange County Animal Services, they will reach out to rescue partners for placement.
NEVER post free kittens on social media or Craigslist, as they may end up as snake food or as bait in dog fighting rings (yes, those stories are real). Additionally, even well-intentioned adopters may not be responsible enough to ensure the kitten is spayed/neutered and vaccinated when old enough. Unless you are able and willing to foster the kittens and provide this service on your own, please surrender the kittens to a reputable rescue or Orange County.
Please contact Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando Surrender a Pet Surrender a Pet - Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando - or Orange County Animal Services at www.ocnetpets.com
BHS would like to remind the community that sadly, FL, due to it's warm season lasting much of the year, kitten season continues well into fall, and animal shelters and rescue organizations are facing unprecedented strain. At the same time, many individuals who acquired baby ducks, rabbits, or chicks as Easter novelties are now realizing the significant commitment required to keep these animals safe, healthy, and properly cared for.
Tragically, countless animals will be abandoned in neighborhoods, public parks, or near bodies of water. The fortunate few may make their way to already overburdened shelters and sanctuaries, where resources are stretched thin during this critical period.
We urge all pet owners to act responsibly by making thoughtful, long-term plans for the well-being of the animals they bring into their homes. A rescue or shelter should never serve as a contingency plan for pets that are no longer convenient. Compassionate ownership means honoring the commitment for the entire life of your companion animal.