The love behind Lulu's Locker Rescue

As promised, I wanted to start featuring more cats on my blog. With my own two cats and some really cute kitten fosters here and there, it would be a huge disservice not to have them. So, what better day than International Cat Day to introduce you to a new rescue?!

Lulu’s Locker Rescue has been on my radar for the longest time. I’ve seen all the wonderful work they’ve been doing and I’ve desperately wanted to work with them. When I finally built up the courage to ask for an introduction, I was ecstatic to hear them say yes.

What makes Lulu’s unique is that they started with a mission to help the underdogs (and undercats). Focusing on black cats and dogs, cats with FIV, senior, and sick animals, Lulu’s doesn’t hesitate to help those most at-risk. Black cats are half as likely to be adopted as grey cats and black dogs also struggle to get adopted. When Lulu’s started in 2011, FIV cats were routinely euthanized, and we all know that sick and senior pets are least likely to be adopted. So they made it their goal to help save the ones that need it most.

Lulu’s mission is due in part to a 13-year-old boy, the son of co-founder Dawn Isenhart-Copp. In 2004, Dawn and her son Andy adopted a cat they named Lulu from a local shelter. They went to the shelter to cheer up Andy during a challenging time. That’s when he met and adopted Lulu, a cat that was being bullied by her siblings. The underdog spirit of Lulu resonated with Andy and Dawn so when Dawn decided it was time to start her own rescue, it was Lulu that inspired them to continue to save the ones that needed them most.

You can read the full story of Lulu on their website. Warning: it’ll give you all the feels, but it’s that vulnerability that I’m so in awe of. Rescue isn’t always a kind place, but Dawn has this wonderful energy that makes you feel welcomed. Her bright demeanor is infectious and after almost a decade in rescue, she’s still so upbeat.

That welcoming attitude extends to their Adoption Center in Frankfort, IL. The space is designed to feel like a home, most likely because it is one! It’s got a working kitchen and a little living room space, even a soon-to-be catio. The goal is to make the cats feel at home and for adopters to see what the cats are like in a home setting. I could have stayed there for hours watching them play with one another. I was about ready to stay the night!

I’ve started to recommend Lulu’s Locker Rescue to my friends who want to foster cats or dogs that live in the southwest suburbs. Anyone would be lucky to be a part of what Dawn and her co-founders have built. They’re quick to respond and happy to provide answers to all the questions you may have.

If you’re interested in fostering for Lulu’s you can fill out a foster application here! They’re hoping to pull a few animals in need on Saturday, so don’t hesitate to sign up!

If you can’t foster, consider attending their fundraiser this Sunday at Harrigan’s in Chicago.

Thank you, Dawn and Lulu’s Locker for all you do for so many cats and dogs in need.

THE RESCUES:

You can see all their available cats for adoption here. I’ve highlighted some of my favorites below!

Rookie – Rookie is their longest-term boy who needs a special home. While there I got to interact with him a little bit and boy is he wonderful. He’s very shy at first, but with patience, he’ll come out and show you how beautiful he is. He was injured when he came to Lulu’s and has a back leg that he doesn’t use much, but it doesn’t slow him down. He gets along with dogs and cats just fine, and once he warms up, he’ll be purring in your lap.

Kit Kat – This girl, she was all about the spotlight and was always ready for her close up. She was fostered with dogs and cats and did just great. Tuula would be a fit in almost any home, as long as you’re willing to tell her how beautiful she is.

Buttons – I noticed this boy almost right away with his tipped ear, a single that he was a TNR boy and lived outdoors for a period. It’s obvious that why he’s now an indoor cat as he such a little friendly dude. He eagerly accepted my chin scratches. I love when outdoor cats become indoor house pets and Buttons is ready for his forever. Buttons is FIV+.

Praline – I, of course, have to highlight a black cat! This beautiful girl is super friendly and will happily accept your love and attention. She’ll insist on it actually!