RAPS History

Our organization was founded in 1989 by dedicated animal lovers who recognized the dangers to cats living on city streets, in alleys and industrial areas. There was no group helping the feral (wild) offspring of lost and abandoned cats. Cats that were wild, or tame but frightened, were quickly killed when taken to city animal control pounds throughout the Vancouver region that were then operated by another organization.

Volunteers took on the task and expense of trapping cats, spaying and neutering them, and providing veterinary care. Tame cats were fostered, and wild cats released where feeding stations were set up so that fresh food and water could be provided daily. Found kittens were fostered, tamed and adopted to loving homes.

Volunteers filled their houses with animals to save them from probable death at the city pound. There were soon 43 feeding stations to be tended in Richmond and south Vancouver. One volunteer's home held more than 100 cats.

The number of animals needing our help continued to grow with no end in sight. It was difficult to care for so many animals in so many different locations. We realized that the only answer was to build a shelter, and set about seeking financial support. Finally, in 1999, a wonderful individual came forward and generously donated the funds.

Our organization worked hard to curb cat overpopulation, responding to calls from the community to trap and fix neighbourhood strays. We subsidized spay/neuter surgery for low-income pet owners, and successfully lobbied our City council to create a Spay/Neuter Bylaw. We answered calls to help recover lost pets and offered solutions to behavioural problems, so that fewer animals would be surrendered to municipal shelters.

As our organization grew, we extended our reach to help other animals in our community. Our determination to end needless euthanasia led us, in 2006, to compete for our municipal shelter contract. On February 1, 2007, RAPS took over operation of the City of Richmond Animal Shelter and implemented a no-kill policy for the animals regardless of age, medical needs or adoptability. The implementation of our no-kill philosophy has been very successful and we are finding safe and loving homes for hundreds of shelter animals.

RAPS Cat Sanctuary

The Cat Sanctuary sits on 6 acres of serene, suburban farmland. There are 2 main buildings and 12 smaller ones, including a kitten house and 2 feline "AIDS" houses. Enclosed decks on the main buildings provide our indoor cats with access to fresh air and sunshine. Cats lounge comfortably on cushions, couches and in special cat beds. Our tame and feral felines cohabitate peacefully and contentedly. New arrivals live in 6-ft high, walk-in cages until they have adjusted to their new environment.

The fenced outer yards and cedar cottages have become a safe haven and home to more than 200 cats who prefer an outdoor life. Hundreds of others lounge or stroll throughout the inner courtyard, surrounded by beautiful flower gardens that have been planted by volunteers. Visitors to our shelter have called it "cat paradise", "Club Med for cats" and "heaven for cat lovers." It's a great place to escape the stresses of city life and to meet likeminded animal lovers. The shelter is maintained by around 100 dedicated volunteers and is funded primarily by private donations and through the earnings of the RAPS Thrift Store.

RAPS City Shelter

The RAPS City Shelter is located on No. 5 Road in Richmond, BC. The facility houses lost, abandoned and surrendered dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, other pets, and occasionally farm animals. The shelter is run by a small staff, paid for by the City, and many dedicated volunteers.

All funds used to feed and provide veterinary care for the animals come from private donations. With a strict no-kill philosophy, all animals at this shelter are cared for until a good home is found. The RAPS City Shelter is often referred to as a "happy place" to meet your new animal companions. The public can view the animals daily beginning at 12:00 noon.