JOIN JOURNEY'S END FELINE SANCTUARY
Journey’s End Feline Sanctuary was a life long ambition for a local cat rescuer called Donna Allen who had rescued hundreds of cats in her active time of 30+ years. This lady would always take in the oldies that no one would home. Her love for the oldies and those with special needs would be her priority, each precious soul cherished, love and showered in affection till it was their time to cross the rainbow bridge. Donna’s dream was to open a sanctuary for those special felines that were so often overlooked. With her support and guidance we were privileged to fulfill that dream and we will continue to do so, for the love of the oldies and those with special needs.
ABOUT US
What is Journey's End?
We are a small, self-funded sanctuary that started in 2015 for elderly/special needs & palliative care cats, set in a safe, homely environment.
The cat room is used for initial assessment and introduction to resident cats and once assessed any cat 'coming home' to Journey's End is given access to a secure, enclosed garden and is also able to free roam within the residence, where they quickly become 'one of the family'.
Sadly, far too many older cats and ones with 'issues' get abandoned and neglected, struggling to survive on the streets, Journey's End is their safe haven, where their needs are catered for, be it visual impairments, obvious disabilities or they just need a safe retreat to live their final years, months or weeks being loved and cared for.
No cat is ever put to sleep, unless their quality of life is diminished or they are obviously physically suffering, EVERY single cat is so very precious, regardless of their condition, age etc., and each one deserves the security of a loving home, good food and veterinary care when needed, until such time they must cross the bridge, without pain and with dignity, knowing they are loved and will be mourned.
Journey's End endeavours to provide such care until the inevitable 'final journey' across The Rainbow Bridge.
MEET THE RESIDENTS
Past and Present ( 2015 - )
DUKE. 26/12/2015
It started for us with this old boy.19/11/15 we received a call about a black cat in an area of Plymouth known as Devonport. We were informed that the poor puss looked all skin and bones and was a kitten. It turned out that the cat, we named Duke, was a very old boy and had been a stray for a few years living on his wits and surviving on scraps and the odd meal from a few residents. We picked him up and asked a local rescue for space but they didn’t have one so he came home with us. He was taken to our vets for a check up to be told he was around 17 years old. Duke was a right character, so vocal and loved his chicken. He was adored by everyone he met. Sadly on Boxing Day 2015, he collapsed and was rushed to our vets. Our vet advised us he was dying and would be kind to let him go. We held him while he slipped away, gently talking to him and telling him what a precious boy he was.Such sadness but we were privileged to have had him in our lives for such a short time.
MITZIE
Mitzie cat was found wandering an area of Plymouth. We were called to scan a cat that had been straying in the area. The little girl wasn’t chipped so we paper collared and area postered, as we always do, but still no owner came forward. Off she went to our vets for a check up, she was around 12 months old. She’s still with us, such a friendly little soul.
GIZMO 29/10/2016
Gizmo a full ginger boy was found straying in Devonport by a main road. He sought shelter in a hole in the wall. We went straight down to scan him for a microchip. As it was, he was chipped, 16 years old, and after much searching and postering the area, we found a new owner. She decided she didn’t want him so he came to us. Another trip to our vets as he was so skinny, bloods taken and was found to have kidney failure. Medication and good food brought the sparkle back in his eyes.
He was with us for 3 weeks but sadly passed away but he went knowing he was loved.
DUTCHESS 13/5/2019
Dutchess was reported to us as having been abandoned in an inner city area of Plymouth. We went to collect her, thin, dirty and very smelly, she’d been eating out of bins to survive. She came home with us, given a warm comfy bed and some chicken to eat. We bathed her the next day to reveal a white and tabby cat. Vet check up and our vets weren’t happy, an older girl around 12 years old but after blood tests, x-rays and an ultrasound they were pretty sure she had FIP Feline Infectious Peritonitis, a virus to which there is no cure. She was only daily medication until she passed away 6 months later.
She passed with dignity and no pain.
WILLOW 2/1/2000-12/12/2020
.Aged 20 but 19 at the time, microchipped and found living in a garden being fed by neighbours. All avenues were exhausted and still no owner found. She was taken into a lovely rescue but due to her age it would have been highly unlikely she’d have been homed, so she came to us.An adorable old lady who is deaf, partially sighted and has 3 teeth but she loves her food and is very talkative.*****Dear Willow sadly went to the rainbow bridge while in her sleep on 12/12/20. She brought such love to us all. We take comfort in knowing we give these beautiful souls a place to call home, where they are loved unconditionally
ODYSSEY
Odyssey has come from the same rescue as Willow. Found dumped in a bag outside a dog rescue with her sister. But sadly, her sister was very poorly and passed away not long after. Odyssey has had both eyes removed due to infections and ulceration. She’s around 3. We have a garden which has been cat proofed so she’s safe to come and go. Nothing fazes her, a very confident and adventurous wee girl.
OSCAR 4/11/2021
Oscar, aged 16, was free to a good home on a social media site, luckily we were tagged on the post and offered the old fella a retirement home. A very active old boy, loves his food and attention is on his terms. Recently diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and kidney disease and is now on life long medication. Oscar was diagnosed with cutaneous lymphoma after a biopsy following several lesions appeared on his body. 2 weeks after diagnosis he sadly left us and crossed a Rainbow Bridge.Such heartache we felt but we know he left us knowing he was so precious to us and loved unconditionally like all here at JE. He was 17 and passed on 4-11-2021
HUGO
Hugo, was found wandering on a very busy road in the central reservation.Every attempt to find his humans was carried out and avenues were exhausted but no one came forward. He has a few issues with one being that he likes to bite you, but only love bites. He’s a happy puss, loves cuddles and is a typical lap cat.
MR TIGS 10-6-22
Mr Tigs, an elderly neutered male, aged 14-16 vets rough guide, who had been a stray for some time and was being fed by a lady, who sadly passed away recently. Efforts were made to locate an owner, but no joy and no microchip was found. He was at risk due to health problems of being PTS so rescue space was sought. Sue’s Cat Rescue in Cornwall offered to help the boy.He had dental treatment and was also found to have hyperthyroidism.He will be on life long medication and will need regular check ups and bloods.As soon as we saw this handsome fella we knew we had to offer him a life long home here at the sanctuary.Please welcome Mr Tigs.
We are sad to inform you that dear Mr Tigs, health had been failing him and the heartbreaking decision was made to let him go with dignity.Sleep tight precious boy. You were a big part of our lives and you go taking a big piece of our hearts with you. X
LORD LUCAN & SMILEY BOY
We were asked to help take in 5 cats a few days ago, due to owners failing health and her concerns about being able to continue caring for the cats as they deserve, so felt she needed to get help to rehome them. We regimes 3 of the 5 and Fabulous homes were found for the felines. Lord Lucan as he is now called, black semi long hair, has found a home here at the Sanctuary, due to him being deaf we felt he deserved a safe place but still be able enjoy a safe outdoor lifestyle too. He’s a big lad with a loving personality and he’s settled in so well.Smiley Boy, as he’s now known, another big boy who came from the same home is now spending his retirement being pampered and adored by Donna the founder of Journey’s End. He’s such a loving & gentle soul. Both very laid back cats.
SAMMY SNAIL
Sam aka Sammy Snail came into the sanctuary back in early May as a foster with a view to rehoming due to his elderly owner being in hospital and unable to care for him but wanted the best for him so we assured her we would find that place.
His owner had him since a kitten and that's all he'd ever known.
Coming into a multi cat household can be very daunting and scary for the new arrival but we are lucky we have the cat room for slow introduction and a safe place for the newbie’s to feel secure and to meet the other residents at their own pace.
There have been several offers of a forever home for this dear boy but our gut instinct said they weren't quite right for him and his needs, especially being an older gent, which is paramount.
However he has since settled in so well here at JE with all the other residents and has formed a close bond with Mr Tigs and Odyssey that we felt it would be wrong to uproot him once again and confuse him with a new home.
'So we are pleased welcome Sammy Snail to our JE feline family'
TOMPTY TOM
This dear old fella has come into the sanctuary as a matter of urgency and for his own well-being. He was constantly near main roads which is a worry and sleeping out in all weathers and as he is coming into his twilight years the owner decided it was in his best interest to relinquish him into our care.He’s 12 years old, super friendly and loves to chat.He’s settled in so well with Donna.
LITTLE MISS NEMO 5/3/2022
This dear old girl, aged 18 was relinquished into our care due to her owners health and no rescue space being offered near by (Romford)She came to us after we were asked to board her for a few days until we could get her to Sue’s Cat Rescue in Cornwall but we offered her a retirement home here at JE. She has hypertension and on life long medication but has also lost her sight due to her hypertension not being diagnosed earlier. We are in regular contact with her old owner sending her photos and updates. So please say a big hello to Little Miss Nemo x
Sadly Lil Miss Nemo aka Meme sadly passed over the rainbow bridge today.We are truly heartbroken xxx
TILLY 26-1-2007/ 9-4-2023
We have just taken in this sweet wee galHer name is Matilda aka Tilly aged 15 years old and has been relinquished as her owner is pregnant and couldn’t manage her slight incontinence which we’d like to add, our vet has treated and fingers crossed she seems to be ok.She’s a right little fuss monster with a very loud purrrrrrrr, she will get plenty of fuss here that’s for sure.So please say hello to Tilly xx
Sadly dear Tilly passed away following a medical episode this morning.She will be so deeply missed by us here at JE and by those who had the privilege of meeting her. Sleep tight little lady. We love you 💔
BILLY
Billy is a young lad who came into our care as previous owner could no longer care for due to house move. 19 months old and full of beans. Billy was rehomed but didn't settle so came back to the sanctuary. Billy will now stay at the sanctuary as its unfair to keep changing their surroundings and its not good for their well being either. He's a happy fella who enjoys being out in the garden and is super friendly with the other residents.
DES
Des has been a long term stray, 4 years that we now know of. Entire male with terrible facial wounds due to fighting for territory as tom cats do. We were asked if we could help him and of course we said yes. Hes around 6 years old and in pretty good health considering his terrible life on the streets. He was neutered and snap tested. Sadly the test came back that he is positive for FIV.
FIV is a virus that affects a cat's immune system slowly over a matter of years.
FIV is in the same class of viruses as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the causative agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in people. It is a retrovirus ie it inserts itself into the cat's genes. Several years ago FIV cats would be euthanised but now they can live a full life. Health supplements can boost his immunity and help him live a happy and long life. He will remain at the sanctuary as needs to be an indoor cat, however we are fortunate we have a cat proof garden so our cats can enjoy the outdoors too.
WILLOW AKA BETSIE
Willows aka Betsie’s story. Willow, aged 10 years old, went missing from Beacon Park, Plymouth over 4 years ago.The owners searched for her, postered etc and registered her missing on the microchip database but never found her. They assumed the worst.It transpires she was found by a couple 4 years ago who posted on a Facebook group asking if anyone knew the cat and asking for someone to scan for a chip. When the offer of scanning puss was given they said the cat had gone.The cat hadn’t gone and they’d kept the cat without ever bothering to get her chip-checked. We now learn that they have since moved house leaving dear Willow behind but thanks to the kind hearted neighbours who posted on social media asking for someone to scan puss for a chip, we responded and went down to scan.Chip details still up to date and having spoken with the registered owners this morning, who were absolutely astounded to hear she was still alive and safe they have asked if we can keep her with us at Journey’s End due to house moved and their circumstances having changed. The amount of times we bang on about folk taking in cats and not getting them chip checked is ridiculous. Dear Willow could have been returned to her rightful owner soon after being found. Willow had a flea allergy which has now been treated. She such a happy and contented little lady .
Willow now called Betsie will reside at Donna’s the founder of JE.Please welcome dear Betsie
LOTTIE LOU LOU
Lottie Lou Lou came into our care due to her owner not being allowed a cat in her new rented accommodation but the landlord accepted dogs. Lottie is 12 years old and a little on the lean side but in the few days she’s been with us she has put a little weight on which is encouraging.She’s a friendly little soul who loves a fuss and has settle in very well.Please welcome Lottie Lou Lou
KATIE NANA. 27-11-23
A call was put out on Facebook, by a local rescuer in Essex, asking if anyone could offer a 21 year old cat a home due to her dad having to go into sheltered accommodation and not being able to take his cat. He tried everywhere but no help was offered so sought the help of a rescue in the area. We saw the post and immediately offered her a home,.We travelled up to Braintree on Monday 1st August and brought her home to Journey’s End.She is settling in well but she will need time to adjust to the big change in her life. Please say hello to Katie Nana. Sadly dear old Katie Nana passed peacefully in her sleep 27/11/23. 💔
AMAZON WISH LIST
DAISY & BUTTERCUP
These two dear little souls came to us having been abandoned after their owner died. The person caring for them didn’t want them so literally threw them out to fend for themselves.Daisy is 6 years old. A very sweet soul who likes to play and adores a fuss. She will be having a dental as her teeth are rotten.Buttercup aka Bob aged 7 years old is a friendly boy who’s settled really well. A little on the lean side but will soon put the weight on.So please welcome Daisy & Buttercup (Bob)Bob has since been rehomed, yayyyy ❤️
PAYPAL
WOODY
Wood came into our care after both his owners sadly passed away. Believed to be around 13-14 years old. Such a friendly chap who enjoys his grub and a fuss.So reminds us of Mr Tigs in looks and mannerisms. We are true believers in our passed residents send those in need our way. He gets on well with all the other residents and them him. Such a dear soul. So welcome Woody to the JE family
MILDRED AKA MILG
Milg our only surviving ex batter hen is still going strong and literally rules the roost.She’s such a character and extremely cheeky but we love her for it xSadly on Friday 25th November 22 this little girl went to the rainbow bridge. She knew love and left a free bird. Fly high darling girl. You will be sorely missed 💔
SHIMMER & SHINE
Shimmer & Shine came in to us the spring of 2021 as their mum could no longer care for them. They’ve made real impact here at JE.They are extremely needy, noisy and utterly bonkers but adorable and so loving. We called them “The Nakids aka Aliens”. They love going outside in the summer but on days like today when it’s 2 degrees you will find them with their jumpers on and curled up under a blanket. Shimmer & Shine
TOGO
This beautiful young male cat appeared at one of the TNR projects in Cyprus and was taken immediately to the vets where he received treatment for a bad case of cat flu, Which he has now fully recovered from.Their vet also believed he is visually impaired and can only see shadows. So a plea went out to find the boy a safe home and we answered that call.He’s around 2 years old and will live happily here at JE where we can cater for his needs.So Please welcome Togo
PUSSY WILLOW
20/12/2001 - 20/2/2023
This sweet 22 year old lady came in to us because her pregnant owner couldn’t manage the little accidents she would have, which we’d like to add, shes had non since she’s been here, however, her undiagnosed hypothyroid condition has left her quite emaciated in looks which we are now trying to get under control. She’s very affectionate and purrs for England.We will do all we can for her. Dear Pussy Willow Sadly the dear gal lost her fight. Rest now lil old gal. XxX
AXEL. 21/11/23
We were made aware of this old boy’s plight thanks to a Facebook post. An old fella with FIV (Feline immunodeficiency virus) looking for a home of his own with a secure garden to enjoy outdoor enrichment.Axel was in a rescue in Cyprus run by a lady called June which was established in 2001.We offered Axel a home and he was flown to Heathrow Airport where we collected him and brought him home. He was taken to our vet for a health check. He’s around 15 years old with only a few teeth and a very delicate tummy so he’s now on specialist foods.He’s settled in so well, it’s like he’s always been here. Please say hi to Axel
With sadness the dear boys body was ravaged by FIV and kidney failure and sadly passed away. Free from pain now 💔
FLOSSY
This dear little girl is called Flossy and has recently come into our care as her keeper had sadly passed away. However we were informed that she’d arrived as a stray. On scanning her we found a chip. We contacted the registered keeper who told us she’d been gone a year and they weren’t in a position to take her back so she’s here to stays with us. Please welcome Flossy
CURLEY
This dear soul had been a stray in an area of Plymouth for, what we’ve been led to believe, 2-3 years. In March we became aware of him, but we were unable to catch him because he avoided the trap and then vanished. It turns out he'd not gone far and has now been trapped thanks to one of our good friends, Sharon and he’s safe in our care. He's an entire with cryptorchidism, which means that only one testicle has descended. His right ear has become bent over due to a hematoma he suffered probably due to fighting. He has burns on both front paws, which is very alarming and upsetting. He’s been through the mill but safe now, so here’s Curley x
GINGIE. 10/8/23
An entire male living on the streets, relying solely on his wits, scavenging for food through bins, facing cold, wet, and always fighting for territory. He didn't really stand a chance. After months of coaxing and setting up a feeding station, he was trapped. Once inside, he was very hissy, wouldn't let you get near him, a very angry and untrusting soul. After a while, thanks to Donna’s perseverance and patience, he gave up his guard and began to trust.He spent his days in the cat room at Donnas where she would pander to his every need.You could see he was an old boy, the old eyes, the posture, he was also deaf, but it didn't matter he was loved all the same. Dear Gingie, original, we know, knew he was wanted, he was loved, had a full belly and a warm bed, But unfortunately, Gingie's tired old body couldn't take it anymore, FIV and with other medical conditions we had to let him go to the bridge. Sleep now boy xx
HENRY
Henry came to us after his owner's tragic passing and the family were unable to care for him. He is 6 years old, very laidback, and affectionate. After bonding well with the other residents, we decided that JE would be his permanent residence after his previous owner being his fourth home. Please welcome Henry x
MEET OUR BIRDS
As well as our lovely kitties, we have our 4 girls; Patsie,Pricillia, Mable, and Mildred.They came to use on the 21/08/20 in a featherless state, we have natured them, looked after them, and they are doing much better now, loving the free roaming lifestyle.Sadly, on the 27th of July, Patsie, grew her wings and flew to rainbow bridge. Fly high little one, you have earned your wings.Sadly on the 1st October we lost Priscilla and on the 4th October we lost Mabel. Deeply upsetting time but we take comfort in knowing we gave then the best life. Flying high with their sister Patsie
