It's been almost a year since the Safe Harbor Animal Sanctuary in Jackson opened the doors to its "cattery," and business is purring.

"We just want people to know who we are, to come here and look around because we've got some really nice cats here in need of a good home," said Alice Wybert, president of the organization.

From 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday, the facility will hold an open house where those looking to adopt pets, tour the grounds or donate money to the cause are invited to attend.

Since opening last July, Wybert and the seven-member board of directors have watched their "no-kill" animal shelter grow to house 80 cats and three dogs in the free-range facilities at 359 Cree Lane.

"I think we've been pretty successful so far. All the animals that come in are spayed and neutered. None of them are ever put to sleep unless they're really suffering, and we just take as many as we can hold," Wybert said.

Wybert said the initial plans were to care for 50 animals, but the shelter reached that total so quickly that expansion became necessary.

Dr. Bruce Braun of Heartland Veterinary Care in Jackson said the sanctuary has filled a niche.

"We have a lot of people go through emotional issues with euthanizing their pets," Braun said. "They know it's not a place where only the animals that are cute or young or whatever have any adoption chance."

Braun said the sanctuary is ideal for people forced to give up pets due to a sudden illness, allergies or old age.

Wybert said over the past two months the operation has taken in 17 animals and found homes for 16.

She said although cat litter is donated by Nestle Purina, the sanctuary has other needs associated with pet care. She encourages those interested in donating or learning more to visit www.safeharboranimalsanctuary.org.

tgreaney@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 245