3P Story

I lived in Turkey for 13 years, during which time I cared not only for my house cats but also for dozens of stray animals. The most challenging period for me was when Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) swept through the cats in my garden. At that time, there was no cure, and all the cats that became ill sadly crossed the rainbow bridge. During the worst week, I lost six of them, leaving me feeling devastated and helpless.

Each cat had a name and a unique personality. I cared for them, fed them, and loved them every single day.

Rose - photograph by Julia Hartmann
Chuck with her baby - Photograph by Julia Hartmann

In 2021, I began a private fundraiser after discovering the first Instagram accounts dedicated to advocating for cats with FIP. Over time, even more accounts focused on animal welfare in Turkey joined our group. These committed rescuers work tirelessly to help animals in need by providing food, medical care, and shelter. Thanks to the generous support from abroad, they have been able to continue and even expand their life-saving efforts.

By 2023, I had been doing pro bono work for three years and reached a crossroads where I needed to decide whether I could continue. The large number of accounts I was managing led to a significant amount of money flowing into a private bank account. Moreover, the time spent communicating with rescuers and donors, updating spreadsheets, transferring funds, and coordinating assistance increasingly felt like a full-time job.

I realised I could not just abandon everyone, so here we are…
Precious Paw Patrons.