Our Story
About Open Sands Kitty Rescue
At Open Sands Kitty Rescue (OSKR), we are dedicated to addressing the challenges of stray cat overpopulation in Panama City Beach. Our organization was founded with a primary mission to reduce the stray cat population to a minimum through effective trap, neuter, and spay programs (TNR) while providing compassionate care and finding sustainable solutions for these vulnerable feline friends.
In addition to TNR, we also focus on adoption and rehabilitation services. We rescue kittens and cats that are suitable for adoption, and our dedicated team works tirelessly to socialize and rehabilitate them, giving them a chance at finding loving forever homes. Through successful adoptions, we ensure that every cat receives the care and affection they deserve.
Community engagement lies at the heart of our work. We collaborate with other residents, sharing our knowledge, supplies, and resources, so that together we can make a greater impact. We believe in fostering a sense of togetherness and empowering individuals to join our cause. By raising awareness and providing educational resources, we aim to create a community that values and protects the welfare of cats.
Questions & Answers About Our Organization
Frequently Asked Questions
Does OSKR accept owner surrenders or found cats into the care of the organization?
No.
OSKR is a 501c3 non profit organization with a primary focus of TNR- Trap, Neuter and Return. We have determined that with our limited time and resources, focusing our efforts on TNR does the greatest good for the greatest amount of cats and people.
That considered, we are very limited in taking in cats- whether it be pets, found animals, kittens born to stray cats, etc. We do not have a facility and little to no foster homes.
Oftentimes we are contacted because found cats are injured or sick. We also do not have the resources to respond to urgent situations and ask that finders be advocates themselves. Operation Spay Bay is a great low cost resource; call and explain the urgency in hopes to be worked in. Other options are Magnolia Bay Animal Hospital (normal business hours) and Urgent Care Vet (after hours and weekends).
On a case by case basis we can assist with rehoming of cats. Cats must remain where they are until such placement in adoptive homes can be found. Cats must be up to date on shots, spayed and neutered (if older than three months), treated for fleas and worms at the expense of the owner or finder. We recommend the clinic at OSB as a resource for this- clinic appointments are available M-Th and some Sat, however have about a month wait, and can be scheduled online: https://clinichq.com/online/3d99007f-fc89-48f4-aab3-b2ac480e7ff0. Services rendered at OSB with the purpose of vetting a cat to place for adoption can be reimbursed up to 50% by our rescue thanks to donation pledges.
Cats must also be litter box trained and therefore brought inside. With provided medical records, pictures and a description of the cat or cats to include age, gender, color, hair length, tail type, personality, medical issues, comfort with men, women, kids, dogs, other cats, and any other pertinent information, we can post them on our numerous websites in effort to find homes. There is a $50 suggested donation per cat for this listing service that helps our organization fund our mission. Our donation link is here: https://givebutter.com/hPgj44
If these are terms you can agree to, kindly respond to this email: opensandskittyrescue@gmail.com with the above requested information and documentation.
If you prefer to market the cat(s) yourself, we recommend https://rehome.adoptapet.com. Be cautious with marketing them on social media as this is where dog fighters go to find bait animals; in any case it is best to require a $50 rehome fee and/or a vet/landlord reference.
If nothing else, please TNR the cat- it is immensely better than doing nothing at all and can be an efficient way to also have any injuries/sickness addressed as well as the spay/neuter. Follow our step by step guide here: https://www.oskr.org/tnr.php. You also can apply for assistance with TNR on our website: https://www.oskr.org/forms.php#TNR
How can I get involved or volunteer with OSKR?
We welcome volunteers who share our passion for cat welfare. You can get involved by assisting with TNR efforts, helping with cat care and socialization, supporting fundraising events, or offering your professional skills. Contact us to learn more about volunteer opportunities.
Can I adopt a cat or kitten from OSKR?
Yes! We have a selection of lovingly rehabilitated cats and kittens available for adoption. Visit our adoption page or contact us for more information about our available cats and the adoption process.
How can I make a donation to support OSKR's work?
We greatly appreciate your support! You can make a donation directly through our secure donation platform. Your contribution helps us cover veterinary care, spaying/neutering, supplies, and other vital expenses.
Are donations to OSKR tax-deductible?
Yes, OSKR is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Upon making a donation, we can provide you with the necessary documentation for tax purposes.