Risks
There are risks associated with the rescue of a cat in a tree, and I cannot guarantee that the cat will not be harmed in some way. Sometimes cats jump; sometimes they fall. I might lose control of the cat and drop him during the rescue attempt. The cat may be injured or even die as a result of his fall. However, cats have an amazing ability to fall from very high places without injury. They often jump or fall from 70 feet and hit the ground running, suffering no harm. There are no guarantees, however, and injury is a real possibility. You need to be aware of that possibility and be prepared to take them to a veterinarian for treatment if needed.
Damage to the tree and property is also possible. Branches may break, and already broken branches that are hanging in the tree may fall, possibly causing damage to property below. That is why I insist that everyone stand clear of the area around the tree while the rescue is ongoing. I take great effort to cause no damage to the tree, and I assume no responsibility for any damage that my climb may cause to the tree or property below.
For these reasons, I routinely require the cat owner to sign a Cat Rescue Service Agreement before the rescue. When I arrive, I will have a copy of this form with me for you to sign, or you can download it and send it to me by e-mail stating that you agree to the terms. I dislike having to do this, and I have never needed it, but without it, I would not be able to continue to volunteer my service. In return, I will also sign a liability waiver for the property owner in the event that I am injured.
Guarantee

Damage to the tree and property is also possible. Branches may break, and already broken branches that are hanging in the tree may fall, possibly causing damage to property below. That is why I insist that everyone stand clear of the area around the tree while the rescue is ongoing. I take great effort to cause no damage to the tree, and I assume no responsibility for any damage that my climb may cause to the tree or property below.
For these reasons, I routinely require the cat owner to sign a Cat Rescue Service Agreement before the rescue. When I arrive, I will have a copy of this form with me for you to sign, or you can download it and send it to me by e-mail stating that you agree to the terms. I dislike having to do this, and I have never needed it, but without it, I would not be able to continue to volunteer my service. In return, I will also sign a liability waiver for the property owner in the event that I am injured.
Guarantee
There are no guarantees in the cat rescue business. Every cat is different, and every tree is different. I cannot promise that I will be successful in rescuing your cat. Cats can get themselves into some of the most precarious positions, and I cannot guarantee that I can reach them in every case. Cats weigh far less than I and can climb on limbs that are much too small to bear my weight. I have a long-handle net and rescue-pole, but I still may not be able to get close enough to reach them without risking my own life. There is usually something that can be done, and I have not had an unsuccessful rescue yet, but sooner or later I am likely to run into one of those cases. If I find that the situation is too dangerous for me, I must reserve the right to abort the rescue attempt.
Property Owner’s Permission
I must have the permission of the property owner to be on his property and to climb the tree. If your cat is on a neighbor’s property, then I can’t do anything until you obtain his permission. If I should fall out of the tree or hurt myself in some way, the neighbor will not be liable, and I will sign a liability waiver to that effect if needed.
I must have the permission of the property owner to be on his property and to climb the tree. If your cat is on a neighbor’s property, then I can’t do anything until you obtain his permission. If I should fall out of the tree or hurt myself in some way, the neighbor will not be liable, and I will sign a liability waiver to that effect if needed.
Coverage Area
I live in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and I will rescue cats just about anywhere in this area. I do not want to set a rigid limit on the number of miles, driving time, or parishes I will serve, but I am always willing to drive an hour from Baton Rouge, and I often do much more than that. If in doubt, just call me. I may at least be able to help you find someone else who is closer.
Weather
The weather matters. I do not climb trees if I can see lightning or hear thunder, because that would put my life at risk. I can deal with light rain, but even then if I see that the weather is clearing soon, I may prefer to wait till that time if it is possible.
Power Lines
If the cat has climbed a power pole, you will need to contact your utility company as they are the only ones legally allowed to climb power poles.
Cost

If you meet other cat rescuers who do charge for cat rescues, then please do respect and honor them too. Cat rescuing is rarely a full-time career. Most cat rescuers have other real jobs and take on cat rescues on the side out of the goodness of their heart. Those cat rescues take them away from their paying jobs, so they do lose money when they must take time away for a rescue. And I can vouch for the fact that tree climbing gear and cat handling gear are very expensive. I am in a fortunate position where I am retired and have the time to give away my services. This is my joy. So please do not begrudge those who do charge.
Hours of Operation
Contact Methods
