Tree House Animal Foundation

Elite '08

112

397

Rocky B.

Chicago, IL

My husband and I went to Tree House a few weeks ago to look at kitties and to fill out an app. The girl who interviewed us was very helpful and really took the time to show us around and answer our questions. You can tell the people that work there really care about the cats and aren't just trying to shove off the little guys/girls to anyone that walks in.

Though we didn't end up getting our new addition from Tree House I am now a big supporter of theirs and who knows...maybe our new addition might just get a new buddy from Tree House one day.

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0

2

Karin K.

Chicago, IL

Treehouse is awesome. The people are amazing, the least self-centered people I know. I have volunteered and/or helped this place for many years now and only wish that I could do more. They take in kitties that would not have a chance most other places and give them a home. . .even if only temporarily until they find their "forever" home.

I love you kitties + the people that care for them. meow.

Only someone cruel or without a true love of animals would write something bad about this place.

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1

11

Amy M.

Chicago, IL

I'm really shocked to see bad reviews of Treehouse and, at the risk of hatemail, after reading the reviews that corresponded, I'm not really surprised. Disappointed, sure. But not surprised. Some yelpers really disappoint me.

First of all, we did get our kitties spayed and neutered here. And yes, it took a while for someone to get back to us, but I was very greatful. We had been having a hard time finding a vet that we could afford, but knew our financial situation would be improving over the next year.

I love Treehouse. I love what they do. I love their mission. I love that they give the opportunity of responsible pet care for people who want to be providers of responsible pet care for their furry family members.

While I am still struggling a bit financially, I give to Treehouse every year and I can't wait to be able to give them more.

To the person who got the pure breed as a gift and doesn't want to be judged by taking advantage of a low cost spay neuter program: perhaps the giver of the gift should also give the gift of covering a kitten's vet bills. Perhaps you could ask them to make a donation to Treehouse on your behalf, since you could not afford to do so?

To me, that's a more productive option than ranting about a program that does so many great things.

Also, you're reviewing Nordstrom's Shoe selection, Sushi Bars, Salons, etc. I don't think you are below the poverty line.

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1

3

Tiger S.

Chicago, IL

Do yourself a favor...Adopt a Cat!

Hey this place is great.  They do wonderful work, on a tight budget, and deal with a wide variety of people.  Plus they've got the cutest staff in Chicago!

Strike that, and do yourself two favors: Adopt a cat AND find a date.

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0

4

J M.

Chicago, IL

I just want everyone to know what a wonderful place this is. I just recently learned of this web site and would have posted last year in July when I got my kitty but hey I am not that hip I guess!! I have to agree with all the good reviews Tree House has gotten and loved reading the stories about them. As for the Bad reviews these are probably people who went there looking for a bad a experience, don't have an open mind or just like trying to make a great place sound Bad.

I advise you to go there with a open mind and understand one thing Tree House is all about the cats and making sure they get a great home not so you can be treated like a king.  The Tree House people are there to take care of the cats and protect them . They are all about making sure the cats find the right people to go home with and if you are there to find a cat chances are you will.

I had a wonderful experience with Jamie she was a little intense at first but seeing all the kitties and the love she had for them I completely understood where she was coming from. As like anyone else I had to fill out a adoption application whether I was adopting or not which is completely reasonable to me especially if I decided that I found the special kitty I was looking for which I did find thanks to Jamie and the employee I talked with, Brant I think he said, who was actually cleaning and taking care of the kitties in the main adoption room. He was very friendly and personable and after looking through some of the rooms and sitting with the cats he actually struck up a conversation with me and told me the little things that each cat does and likes and when I started to play with my soon to be girl he told me how she would probably act in a new home and how much she really needed a place of her own. Which was very helpful to me in deciding which kitty was right for me.

The Adoption people were very friendly and knowledgeable about the kitties they have there and really seem to care about the health and well being of the cats and making sure you find the right companion.

I also enjoyed the fact that it seemed like a real home with a variety of real people who work there to go with the variety of cats that live there. Stay real guys and take good care of those kitties. Somebody has too...

All I can say is if you want to find that special kitty check out Tree House  Yeah I am a little bias due to the fact that I got my beautiful sweet little sassy girl from there but I will say this it is an amazing place and you won't find another like it in the city and by this I mean a real place not a high tech facility or dolled up place but a real house for kitties that I think helped with the transition to my home a lot better than a caged shelter or a fake made up place.

Thanks Again Tree House My Love to all those kitties hope they all find homes!

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1

4

Katie G.

Chicago, IL

I finally got my first apartment alone, and wanted a little company.  I hadn't had my own pet since I lived with my parents, and was really excited to get a new kitty.  

I had already decided I wanted to adopt an adult cat, not a kitten, and had been eyeing the kitties at my local PetsMart.

I double-checked with my landlord before applying anywhere to make sure I didn't have an extra pet deposit or pet-rent, and applied to adopt a cat who was in the adoption center at PetsMart, from the Anti-Cruelty Society.

When I didn't hear anything back from either PetsMart or the Anti-Cruelty Society by Friday, I called PetsMart.  The first person I talked to there was really nice and went to find my application for me, but the room was locked or something like that, which I totally understand.  When I inquired later, I got the run-around from both the Anti-Cruelty Society and PetsMart.  (is asking for a call saying the cat you applied to adopt has been adopted too much?)

That weekend I walked from my Andersonville home to the Borders at  Lawrence and Broadway, and stumbled upon Tree House while walking back on Carmen.  (aside: I walked back on Carmen even though I could have taken Lawrence to Clark, but there's a cemetery I'd have to walk by, and I didn't want to)

I went home and did some research, and Tree House looked pretty cool.

I stopped in and applied to adopt a cat later that week.  The staff was SUPER friendly.  They answered any questions I had.  They didn't reprimand me at all when I said I had grown up with out-door cats.  I've never believed in declawing a cat... think about cutting off your finger before your nail so you don't have finger nails... that's what declawing is.

The staff was totally friendly and totally laid back.  Yes, you have to fill out an application, but there was no pressure to take a cat home that day.  In fact, I felt the opposite.  They really want you to get to know the cat you're taking home.  I got the impression that if I filled out an application and never came back, there would be no questions asked.

I ended up picking out Cologne, a 4.5-year-old FIV+ male.  I had made my choice based on my first visit, but they wanted me to hang out with him more before I brought him home.

And yeah, I found it stinkier than a normal house, but this is a house full of cats!  Of course it's not going to be fresh as daisies.  But I think what I smelled wasn't excrement, it was their wet food... I don't really like the smell of wet cat food.  Luckily, Cologne eats his up.

I was really happy with my experience at Tree House.  They really care about each and every cat that walks through that door.

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Elite '08

5

89

Bethany L.

Chicago, IL

I really wish that I had the time to volunteer at Tree House, or at least the money to donate to them. They are really a wonderful organization that focuses on finding cats a good, happy, healthy home.

Our two cats, Imogen and Baxter (or as they were known at TH, Starla and Watusi) are from Tree House. We had gone to PAWS' old location at first and found two male kittens that we wanted, but they were gone within hours. We found out about Tree House online and we were really surprised and excited to find a cat-only shelter.

The people here are extremely dedicated to these cats. They are hardworking, lovely people that I really do admire. And these cats are taken care of so well! They get to walk around the whole house (unless they are kittens or have a medical disability or infection that prevents that from doing so) and basically have the run of the place. That's more than can be said for PAWS and Anti-Cruelty.

We took our good sweet time playing in the kitten room and were able to find two cats that seemed to be friendly with each other and with us. I really like that they're so strict about their no declawing policy. I grew up with declawed cats but in adulthood I've come to know the stupidity of that concept and would never again have that done to a cat.

Im and Bax have been with us for a year and a half now and are happy, healthy, well-adjusted cats. They are a pleasure to have around and we love them so. Thanks, Tree House!

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1

11

Angela H.

Chicago, IL

I adopted my cat, Kong, from Tree House a few years ago--these people, this place, is amazing, truly.  I have such deep respect for them and all the unconditional love they give these cats...

Some of these reviews are hilarious.

For one: Feral is not spelled "farrell."  Just, you know, as an FYI.  

Also, these people work for nothing.  I mean it.  Like really bad pay, but Tree House is a non-profit--it's about sacrificing a more comfortable lifestyle so that you can do what you love.  You'll never meet another group of people who'll sacrifice so much for cats.  Most of them work off the clock, too--taking home whole litters to bottle feed every two hours.  They pick maggots out of festering wounds, one by one--they lovingly hand feed shy and abused strays--they are bitten and scratched on a daily basis.  People actually arrive on their doorstep with cats in PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS. They owe you nothing.  Acquiring better customer service skills shouldn't even be on their radar.  

So, in turn, they have a right to get huffy at the mere mention of purebred cats.  Bringing them your purebred is like taking a big crap on all the work they do--purebreds are the antithesis of their whole mission.

Probably my favorite review is from the illusive "E.N."  So, a lady followed you around and told you which cats you were allowed to pet?  Wow!  I sure hope she did.  She was trying to keep you from getting bit.   You should be thanking her.  

Oh, and, I'm sorry you can't "browse" there.  Before they let you handle their livelihood, they want some information about you first!  Is that so much to ask?  Are you going to let some random lady into YOUR house to pet all your animals?  I'd sure hope not.

Anyway, bottom line:  the people at Tree House are borderline saints.

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13

138

jose g.

Chicago, IL

I think a lot of the criticisms above are more indicative about the views of the reviewers than about Tree House. Tree House is amazing, wonderfully dedicated to the protection and expansion of feline rights and opportunities (sounds funny, but it's serious), and one of the best places to get a cat from.

They are among those shelters that do give you more requirements than you would expect for adoptions for a simple reason: many people irresponsibly adopt or 'buy' cats. I've had plenty of friends and acquaintances who picked up cats and then had to get rid of them within weeks or months because they were moving, or the landlord didn't allow cats, or some other thing that they should have thought about before they committed themselves to a cat, a commitment that should be considered (feline) life-long and akin to the decision to bring a child into your life. Tree House understands this, and doesn't allow impulse adoptions like people might do from a pet store (and by the way, never get a pet from a breeder or a pet store, IMO!).

Saying that, there are few facilities in this city that treat cats with as much care, respect and dedication as Tree House (and PAWS and other such shelters). And their cats are overwhelmingly happy and mostly out of cages, except in the cases of particularly violent cats, sick ones, or individuals under observation. Compare that to the pound, a breeder, a pet store, or even the 'Anti-'Cruelty Society.

And they also take care of many cats that would have been killed at other places, with a full room for FIV+ (cat version of HIV) cats, a main floor full of sick or older cats, and a focus on clinical aid and socialization.

Also, for cat lovers who already have too many or don't think this is the time, Tree House (and PAWS) are great places to either volunteer, or else just stop by (after Noon most days) to pet and chill with the cats.

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4

14

Rebecca G.

Chicago, IL

Here's my story:

I am an animal-lover. I am actually allergic to cats, though my roommate had two cats at the time.

I live in an area with a hefty stray-cat population, and I made friends with a stray. He was young and small and it was a little hard to tell at first that he was a "he." I empathized with him and left him a little cat food on our porch each day.

We were friends. He wasn't farrell at all. When I came out of my house, sometimes I would call for him and he would be in my neighbor's yard. I named him Play-dah.

One day, I came home and he didn't come. I called for him, and I heard a faint meow. He was under my porch and reluctantly limped out. He had a sore on his leg. As it was already November, I felt that I had taken responsibility for this cat by feeding him and so took him in. Because he might have had some disease for all I knew, I kept him separated from the other animals in my house (I have a beagle). I started calling shelters but no one could take him.

PAWS referred me to Tree House and I spoke to a lady who showed great concern and empathy for my situation. I told her I could not keep the cat because I was not financially able to support another animal, and besides, I am allergic. She told me to get the cat checked for FIV, and if he came out negative, they would have a place for him. I told him that I wouldn't be able take him to the vet until that weekend, because I didn't have a car. She highly encouraged me to take him immediately and not to delay.

But I didn't. I waited till the end of the week, when I could borrow a car and after I had deposited my paycheck. I went, in part because the cat's abscess was worse. I called the Tree House to see if they still had room for the cat. But this time, the lady's attitude was completely changed. She chastised me for having waited. She was on the edge of being verbally abusive.

I took Play-dah to the vet. He tested negative for FIV. However, he had a severe case of fleas, which explained the huge scabbing on his rump. He passed the fleas on to my dog, so I had to get treatment for both.

In total, I spent about $80 on Play-dah. When I arrived at Tree House, I was told to reconsider the amount I was planning to donate to the facility and was strong-armed into giving more than I could afford. Many friends said I did way too much for a cat that wasn't even my own. But I couldn't just let this little puss die on the streets or suffer from his little wound.

Don't get me wrong, I am thankful for the work they do. I don't expect a medal for rescuing a cat. I guess I expect a little respect and a little cooperation. They do seem to make a lot of assumptions there, like about the financial status of these animal-lovers who walk through their doors.

In the end, they said the abscess wasn't as bad as they thought it was going to be and I think Play-dah, nice boy that he was, is probably having a great time with lots of love and affection. Hopefully someone nice adopted him.

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0

16

Marc L.

Chicago, IL

The people here do a great service to both homeless cats and people who want to adopt them. They're a no-kill shelter and take in cats regardless of health. They're very knowledgable about each cat's personality/health/behavior issues, so you can find the best pet for your home.

Their cats get very thorough medical testing, and are spayed/neutered. All cats are also microchipped, which allows their owner to be located if they are lost and recovered by a pound or shelter.

The cats here seem well taken care of and are given lots of human attention; this acclimates them to living in a home with other people.

Chief Chirpa (my Tree House cat) and I both highly recommend this shelter.

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0

2

Antje K.

Chicago, IL

I just adopted my new little friend from the tree house. A sweet cat named Jennifer, and I'm extremely happy with the cat, as well as the service that I have received. I took a relative long time to search thru the Tree house to find my right match, had a ton of questions before I made a choice. All where answered very patiently, and I do want to thank the entire stuff for that. My special thanks to Jamie, whom was so nice to show me around, and seemed to know the cats very well. She made me feel very comfortable to adopt a kitty from that place.
It was a hard decision, since they have a great amount of all different kinds of cats, suited for all different kinds of people.
Jennifer seems to feel already home with me (after just two days). She's quite the purring machine, and loves to venture around the house.
I definitely appreciate all the work the tree house is doing to give these little rascals a place to stay, while waiting for adoption. Sooner or later I will probably find Jennifer a little play buddy, and I know the place for me to go will be the Tree House.
Thank you guys!

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7

19

Samantha E.

Chicago, IL

I adopted my cat from Tree House three years ago, and in my opinion, it is a wonderful place.  For $75 or thereabouts, I got a cat who was cleaned, treated for mites, spayed, microchipped, and came with a 30-day health guarantee.

I came in on a Sunday, about an hour before their closing time and the staff member working with me stayed for the nearly two hour interview/paperwork time it takes to adopt a cat there.  Everyone I encountered there was very nice and polite.  They introduced me to many cats throughout the facility, but I ended up going home with Ophelia, a two year old tabby that had just been put on the adoption floor that day.

The adoption process is long, and they make you agree to a bunch of stuff - never to transfer ownership of the cat w/o their permission, keep it indoors at all times, etc.  I was a college student at the time, and even though I had income to support myself AND a cat, they made me call my dad to assure them that if she got sick or required surgery, he would loan me the money to pay for it.  However, considering how much time they devote to each animal in their care, it seems reasonable that they can be as picky as they want regarding who adopts them.

So now I have THE BEST cat in the world, thanks to Tree House.  Since adopting her, I've remained in contact with them, I'm very impressed with the work they do.  I occasionally donate money, and currently am sporting my Tree House track jacket (which is awesome, btw, check out their online store).  I went to the open house for the new facility on Ashland, I'm super psyched they have a shop that isn't way up north.

None of the staff have ever been rude or anything less than polite to me, either in person or over the phone.  At the open house, all of the volunteers (and the cats!) were sweet as pie.

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Elite '08

22

80

Anne M.

Chicago, IL

Made me sad...it truly was like walking into a orphanage.  I had to remind myself that given the right adopted environment, these sweeties would bloom.  They were all somewhat "down" or sleeping.  A few were quite loving and friendly though, but they are in a forced environment and are "handling" it.  The staff takes really good care of so many abandoned beings quite selflessly and full of genuine care and concern.  I hope to adopt a cat from here one day when one of those sweet things chooses ME.

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6

58

Nikkie H.

Chicago, IL

I adopted my cat Bennie from Tree House about a year ago. Admittedly it was a totally spontaneous thing, because I just moved into my own place and was dying for some company. I have never owned a cat, and my family was always "dog people" when I was growing up.

I did about an hour's worth of research before I drove out to check out Treehouse. There were so many beautiful, well-cared for cats there. It just broke my heart because I wanted to take them all home.

My cat's name was Iota, which I just had to change immediately. She was a little skittish at first, because she had been adopted before and returned, but warmed up within a couple days. Now she's super affectionate, but is still really needy.

The only reason I took away a star is because of something that may have been either overlooked or intentionally omitted. When I adopted Bennie I was told she had regular veterinary care, and was not a special needs cat. Truthfully it didn't matter if she was or not, but it's good to know ahead of time. I took her to another vet about three months later and was told she has severe periodontal disease, which they were surprised because she was so young.

I have to think that the vets at Treehouse would've caught it, because I doubt it could've gotten so severe so quickly. But I love her nonetheless and I'm absolutely blessed to have her in my home :)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
9/21/07 - Received a message from the director who wanted to talk about all the changes made at Tree House since I adopted my kitty. Haven't had time to call her (work is crazy), but do appreciate her reaching out. I can definitely tell they are listening to feedback so they can continue to improve.

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Elite '08

16

97

Jennifer K.

Chicago, IL

Some of the people who work here are horribly rude, unhelpful, and unfriendly.  

I was referred to Tree House after my cat, Geoff, started peeing all over the place.  Physical illness was ruled out, so the problem was behavioral.  Long story short, the lady that I spoke on the phone with told me about 5 times that the behavioral problems that I was having with my cat were my fault for having him declawed, even though (a) he was like that when I adopted him from my old vet, and (b) his adventures in misbehavior were all new, even though I'd had him for 2 years.  She was totally unhelpful, judgmental, and rude.  I called for help and got nothing but crazy cat-lady 'tude.  She proved to be very unhelpful in a situation where my cat and I truly needed advice and help.

As much as I respect the work that they do here, I can't help but warn people about my experience with Crazy Cat Lady.

EDIT:  I am changing my earlier review.  If you want a cat, definitely go there.  From what I understand, they take excellent care of cats there, and really want to make sure that the cats are placed into good homes.  So, I will give them another star for the good work that they do.  But they seriously need to do a little customer service training or something...

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16

51

Erin J.

Chicago, IL

First of all how could anyone give less than a glowing review of The Treehouse? Yes, sometimes where there is a large quantity of cats, there might be a cat-like smell. With well over 300 cats and a small number of of selfless staff and heroic volunteers to clean up after them it is difficult to always have the place sterile.

The Treehouse is a no-kill shelter that has done some amazing things for all cats. They house sick and disabled cats, that might have been euthanized at other shelters.

I can agree that most people at the shelter would prefer the company of a feline than of a human. I think that these people are just a bit more intelligent than the rest of us to harbor these feelings. The "extreme side" as Susan S. experienced there was most likely due to the fact that people who work in animal welfare have seen the worst in people. They have seen people adopt cats to be used as "bait" in illegal dog fights and people who neglect and abuse animals. I would rather see an animal adoption counselor seem a little nutty, and get to know who the cat is going home with, than to be complacent and then learn that animal was harmed.

What the people who work and volunteer at The Treehouse do is not easy and with the hard work that they do, they have made it in to one of the finest places to adopt a new feline friend. It is the first place I recommend to people looking to adopt a cat.

They also do animal assisted pet therapy, have a pet loss support group for grieving owners, believe strongly in education and believe in what they do!

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Elite '08

28

110

Colleen S.

IL

No kill, cageless cat shelter that specializes in pregnant and injured cats. They do great things for strays and manage funding well to maximize the benefits. I adopted my cat from treehouse and he was one of the few cats in a cage, but only because he wasn't real friendly. He had a respiratory infection when I brought him home but they gave me meds and I took him back in for a check up at no cost to me to confirm he was all better. They really do continue the care after the adoption process is done.

No place is perfect. I volunteered there while I was unemployed for a while and I can address a few of the comments on this site. The reason you can't pet all of the cats is because some aren't used to humans walking up and petting them and you might get bit or scratched. The employees are just trying to prevent injury. Yes it smells sometimes. There are hundreds of cats. I'm not sure I'd expect anything less. The staff does clean the litter boxes all the time so they are doing the best they can! Many of the cats are sick or have problems so ya know..accidents happen! As far as the snotty people, I did notice one thing when I volunteered there: there are some people that are animals lovers and some people that are just WAY to into it. Almost to the point that they hate humans or something. It's weird. I witnessed it myself and I think you just have to accept that those people exist and will most likely reside in places like this. For the most part, the people I worked with here were very nice people and that includes the lady that I worked with when adopting my cat.

My only criticism is the way they allow the volunteers to feed the cats treats ad nauseam. Many of the cats are severely overweight (catzilla!). Yet, I saw several regular volunteers come in with a can of cat treats and feed one cat over 10 treats. I'm not sure if they'd be ok with that if they knew it or what. They have to get a handle it. It's not fair to the cats.

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8

23

Holly T.

San Francisco, CA

In an ideal world, all shelters would be very much like Tree House.  My reasons for feeling this way:

1. Once an animal makes it into Tree House, he or she is guaranteed a home for life. No matter whether she is ill, doesn't get along with other cats or people, or just happens to be edging up in years, she'll always have a home. If things don't work out after an adoption, the cat is always welcome back. This is a no-kill shelter.

2. There are no cages (except for sick and contagious animals). Adopting a cat from a caged shelter is difficult. You see loud cats, shy cats, playful cats, and beautiful cats, but they're all behind bars. If you want to find a cat with a funky personality, where do you even start? Most of these cats have just one thing on their minds: get me out of this damn cage. Sure, in most shelters you get to hang out in the meet-and-greet room, but do you really get enough time to get a good sense of a cat's personality?

At Tree House, the cats rule the roost. You get to see the cats in their element. They're playing, fighting, sitting on cat trees, sleeping on blankets, soaking up sun on the window sills, and madly destroying cat toys. On top of it all, they're everywhere and I mean EVERYWHERE. Watch where you step. It's a little unreal, but what you see is what you get.

3. The volunteers try very hard to ensure that the cats get adopted out to good homes. These folks check to make sure that potential adopters understand the commitment required in adopting a cat. Cats need regular vet visits, grooming, decent food, fresh water, a stable environment, and most of all, attention. They will not adopt out to someone who doesn't take these requirements seriously.

4. This place is fun. To work in a house filled with cats, a sense of humor is a must and a little craziness probably helps. Imagine working in a place where there's a cat on the desk, a cat in your lap, and two cats dozing on the printer.

Sometimes, interacting with these folks may feel frustrating. If they seem like they're asking too many questions while reading your adoption form, try to remember this: they only have the cats' best interests in mind.

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2

20

Melanie M.

Chicago, IL

I have loved this place since my Aunt took me there when I was about nine years old with a stray cat she had found in her yard.  It's an amazing thing, if you love cats, to see how happy and comfortable they are roaming free in the various rooms.  Such a unique experience, particularly if you are looking to adopt, as compared to a regular shelter such as the ASPCA.  

Although I love the ASPCA, and even adopted my youngest from there, I would highly recommend Tree House to any potential adopters.  If you are not looking for a kitten it is an especially great way to find the perfect adult cat to add to your family.  You really get a chance to see how this mature feline interacts with people and other cats, which helps to make sure you get the best fit.

It may not be as perfectly sterile as the ASPCA, but if you are a cat lover, you would probably ignore any small details such as this when you see how content these cats are to be able to socialize with each other and the many volunteers rather than nervously hiding behind bars as at other shelters.  But actually, for as many cats as they house at this facility, I thought they did a great job with cleanliness and attentiveness to all the cats.

If you are not looking to adopt, consider volunteering.  I was able to volunteer for a few months and very much enjoyed it.  It helps to satisfy that craving cat lovers can get for adding to the family.  I got to spend a few hours every week just playing with the cats and getting to know them, and then went home to my two kitties.

Thanks Tree House for all the great work and lives saved!

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304

1005

Nancy K.

Chicago, IL

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

This is a cageless no-kill facility.

Please consider this outstanding place when considering adopting a cat or kitten.   This is a very organized and clean facility.  Just outstanding.  

We found a kitten during the winter.  Poor sweet little one, she was cold, shaking, had fleas, ear mites and was filthy.  We could not keep her (long story) which saddened me, I believe in fate -- this is how our last cat came into our lives.  We called around and this was the only place that could/would take her.  They are wonderful and kind.

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0

6

Adam E.

IL

This place is a nuthouse.

I really wanted a kitten from them, but they said they wouldn't let him get adopted by himself.  Their policy is, kittens under either months old have to go home with another cat, or there has to be a cat at home already to keep them company.  Reason: Kittens can get into trouble and cause mischief.  Yeah, that's what kittens do.  Besides, they get along so well together, and it would be traumatic to separate them.  I only wanted one cat, so they said "no dice."  

A few weeks later, I found out that the littermate got sick.  So I asked again if I could take the kitten, since the brother was off the market.  Nope, now I had to take a different cat from the shelter, along with the kitten I wanted.  What happened to "they get along so well together"?  Now they want me to pick another cat off the shelf just to make them feel better that the kitten won't get bored?

Flash forward.  The kitten is now 7 1/2 months old--just shy of the 8-month rule.  I call again and ask if I can get the cat.  Still, the answer is no.   I said, "But he's almost 8 months old.  I thought your rule was--"  No.  No exceptions to this cat.   This is now a "special" kitten who can only go with his brother.  They've got about 100 cats there.  How do they know so much about this one kitten?

I said I'm willing to give this cat a loving, affectionate home.   Today.  I've filled out their [crazy] 6-page application already.  I've HAD a cat before!  No dice.  The gal says he and his brother are going to get adopted "any day now" (just not by me), so she's not concerned about him finding a home.  "It's not about numbers" with Treehouse.  It's about "quality homes."  

Then she started to question me about why I liked this cat so much--what about all the other great cats they have there?  "So-and-so's a great cat, as is what's-his-name, and the other one."  My thinking is, Shouldn't they be happy to know that a person really has his heart set on a particular cat?  Doesn't that indicate strong interest and a good chance at success for the animal?  I'm not interested in rescuing the whole shelter.  I like that one kitten.  Sorry if I'm not the person who's going to save the entire Feline race.

The conversation started to get confrontational.  

It was apparent to me that I was talking to a nut who would rather the kitten stay in cat jail with his brother until he was too old to ever properly bond with a human being, than to let him go to someone who's been interested in adopting him for two months now.  

I won't argue the fact that Treehouse does God's work on behalf of cats, but my experience with them was less-than-stellar.   I would not subject myself again to their whimsical adoption policies again.  I'll go elsewhere.

Postscript:
I've upped my original one star to two for the following reason: Very soon after my review was posted, I was contacted by one of the supervisors at Treehouse, Ollie, who read my review and wanted to discuss with me my experience at Treehouse.  He was concerned with what he had read and wanted to know if the organization could do better.  I told him what had happened, and he agreed that it sounded like the policy that was being enforced was perhaps being a little too strict, and that had he know what was going on he would have interjected and taken a look at my case.  I appreciated the phone call and the effort by Treehouse to follow up on a less-than-stellar review.  

I did get a cat elsewhere, btw.  An awesome cat.

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0

8

Kathy M.

Lake Forest, IL

I first walked into Treehouse in 1991 after having a horrible experience trying to adopt two kittens from the Anti-Cruelty Society. Your staff was wonderful, committed, caring and I left with two runt kittens (brother and sister) that grew into two of the most beautiful Maine Coon mixes. When I moved from Wrigleyville to Edgewater, I used to drop off donations frequently. We ended up back at Treehouse earlier this year after one of my two original Treehouse cat's died of kidney failure at 15.

When we started to look for a new cat this time around - four months after our cat died - I didn't come in here first because the staff person I talked to on the phone totally mishandled my call. To be blunt - she was mean. We did eventually come in - 12 shelters later because I really do believe in Treehouse and had great experiences for many years before. And, most of the other shelters were dirty and heartbreaking.

I still feel that Treehouse is one of the cleaner, nicer shelters. However, the staff there should take heart to some of the comments some of the people have posted on this site - the people at Treehouse are not as nice as they used to be and you only get one chance to make a first impression.

I know how important it is to find the right fit - cat (or cats) and people - but no one else asked for an application to be filled out first. We did not find our perfect fit at your shelter but he did pick us the next afternoon at a shelter closer to home - where we ended up adopted two litter-mates. It's been six months - and Scarlett is much happier with her new friends and we have few issues with our new mixed cat environment.

Please, oh please, work on the people skills - I have never walked back into the Anti-Cruelty Society after my first very bad experience 16 years ago. I would hate for anyone to think of your shelter in the same way.

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0

1

L N.

Chicago, IL

Tree House is a cageless no-kill shelter and non profit organization.  Their facilities are amazingly clean and well run.  I have been a supporter for many years and have volunteered at and attended some of their terrific events.  I recently adopted my first Tree House cat with their advice on which of their shelter cats would be a good fit for me.   I wish I had more time and money to devote to this great place!

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1

11

kelly c.

Chicago, IL

I needed to get my cat spayed. I was given their number by a friend. she said the place was close to me.
Well to start it took them a week in a half to call me back, and then when I arrived, the place smelled god awful, and the woman who checked in my cat was awful to me. She had a super huge attitude towards me when she asked where I got the cat. (a breeder) She said that people who have cats from breeders dont usually come to"these type of places", then when she demanded my paper work on my cat to check the shot status, she said it was the crappiest documentation she'd ever seen. "pounds and shelter give you better paperwork than this, you should of got your cat from a shelter."
anyway I ignored her and her tone and left. When my boyfriend went to pick the cat up later the same lady was there and was digging into him about how its unfair for "us people" who could afford a pure bread cat to use their facility for the spaying "people of your status usually go to vets for these types of things." He was offended as well.

Id just like to say this woman who had made this preconcieved judgement on who I am or my finacial status due to having a pure bread is in the wrong. They cat was a gift to me, and I am as well as half this city in the poverty sticken guidelines.
ugh

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1

17

E. N.

Chicago, IL

This place stunk of cat urine and the staff were arrogant; one lady followed us around giving minute by minute instructions on which cats we were allowed to pet. The cats looked ok from what we could tell, but the smell of ammonia was overbearing after about 20 minutes in there. Obviously, Tree House Animal Foundation, Inc. needs a tune up!

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0

1

Aurora S.

Chicago, IL

I found a stray cat in October and of course we kept her but we got her spayed at tree house. I thought the place was actually very clean considering they have tons of cats living there. I think it just depends on when you go, they aren't cleaning 24 hrs a day.  First off, I have to agree that they are kind of snotty there, they didn't do the best job with her stitches and when we had to bring her back they made it seem like we weren't watching her which is crap cause she is around us all the time, she never hides or anything.  Besides that, I understand having an attitude sometimes when working with animals. I volunteered at an animal rehab and after a while you get very jaded with people. You can see first hand just how much people suck! I would have an attitude too if someone bought their animal from a breeder, it's REDICULOUS! NO one should be going to breeders anymore. Bottom line is that they are there to make sure the animals are protected and going to good homes, not to make friends with us.

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Elite '08

53

123

Laura R.

Chicago, IL

Treehouse is a fantastic place for cats. Instead of being locked up in cages they get to roam around as they please. Treehouse only takes in abandoned, homeless cats (no "we're moving and it's too much trouble to bring the cat!") so many of the animals are feral then are trained to be around humans. Even if the cats are never domesticated treehouse keeps them for their entire lives.
Once you adopt a cat from treehouse they give you follow up calls to ask how the cats are doing, they truly care about their kitty family.
The only reason I'm taking off a star is the staff was much less friendly than the people working at Felines, Inc another cageless no-kill cat shelter. There was definitely an attitude at Tree House and also you can't just go in and "browse", you have to fill out an app first. This is unfortunate for people like me who just want to see some cute kitties and give them some love even if I'm not out to adopt that day. If you're interested in adopting a cat I would definitely visit Felines Inc as well. I would have adopted a cat from there instead we just happned to find one we fell in love with at Tree House.

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2

50

Amy M.

Chicago, IL

Tree House is a cage-less, no-kill shelter celebrating its 35th year in 2006. I may be a bit biased since I volunteer here, but I love Tree House.  The people who run Tree House are so dedicated and truly care about the welfare of animals.  They are tireless in their efforts to educate the public about humane animal treatment and to find homes for cats that might not get a chance at other shelters.  

Some folks have mentioned cleanliness issues.  The staff and volunteers at Tree House clean the shelter with a sterilizing agent every day, including washing out the litter boxes and filling them with fresh litter.  Every Day.  That includes Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter and the other 362 days of the year. It's an enormous task.  Because our cats live in more home-like environment, there will be more accidents than at a traditional shelter in which they are each in individual stainless steel cages.  It may make the facility a little harder to clean, but it reduces stress on the cats, and makes it easier for potential adopters to evaluate the behavior of the cat they're interested in.  It also just makes the shelter a more pleasant environment for everyone. Staff and volunteers alike are committed to providing all Tree House cats with a safe, sanitary home -- for the rest of their lives, if necessary.  We pride ourselves on achieving that goal for 35 years, through the support of our donors.

For those folks who felt as if the staff hovered over them telling them which cats not to pet -- that's for your own safety.  Since Tree House specializes in taking in sick and injured strays, some of our feline residents may become fearful or overstimulated by human contact.  The staff was most likely trying to keep you from being bitten or scratched by a cat who's not yet learned that human affection is a good thing.

We do ask a lot of questions of potential adopters.  It's because we really care for these animals and for the people who are going to adopt them.  We want to make sure that every adopter knows what they're getting into, and is prepared to take on the needs of that individual cat.  I've seen too many cats be adopted and come back because the cat hid under the bed for two weeks and the adopter got frustrated. When the cat comes back he's confused about what just happened and may become even more reclusive.  We want all concerned in the adoption -- human and feline -- to have a long and happy life together.  So if we seem like we're pestering you, it's only because we want you to be matched with the right feline companion, and have reasonable expectations of what your relationship may be like.

If you're looking for new companion, visit Tree House to meet some of our 300 or so cats.  You won't be disappointed.

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