Seroja Inn: a sanctuary of hope for over 300 cats
Nurul Ain Abdul Hamid, founder of Seroja Inn Home Shelter, is deeply passionate about giving sick and injured cats and dogs a second chance in life. (Fauzi Yunus @ FMT Lifestyle)
SHAH ALAM : Nurul Ain Abdul Hamid was still a college student when she rescued her first cat. She had witnessed the feline being hit by a car. To her dismay, the driver had not even stopped to check on the animal.
Ain was not able to walk away when she saw how much pain the cat was in. She immediately rushed it to a veterinary clinic, and later reached out to a rescuer who took the cat in after it was discharged.
This marked the beginning of Ain's journey into the world of animal rescue. In 2012, she founded Seroja Inn (SI) Home Shelter with her family.
Today, the shelter in Shah Alam houses over 300 cats – but not just any cats. 'We focus on those that are sick, especially those in critical condition – for instance, cats with feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). FIV is similar to HIV in humans,' Ain explained.
'There is no cure for FeLV and FIV. We will care for these cats for the rest of their lives, as it is hard to find adopters for them.'
They also take in cats with parvovirus, feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), fungal infections such as sporotrichosis, and those injured in accidents.
'We will treat these cats until they are healthy. Once they recover, we will spay or neuter and vaccinate them, then put them up for adoption.'
Can you tell that these adorable cats are eagerly waiting for food? (Fauzi Yunus @ FMT Lifestyle)
Most of these cats live in a three-storey shoplot, while senior cats and those that are completely blind are cared for in Ain's own home.
Taking FMT Lifestyle around the shelter, Ain, 32, shared that the first floor is primarily designated for cats undergoing treatment, which is why they are kept in cages here.
Meanwhile, the second floor is home to healthy cats that are ready for adoption. Over 20 paralysed cats also live here.
'The third floor is where we quarantine new arrivals for at least two weeks before spaying, neutering and vaccinating them,' Ain pointed out, adding that most of these cats are her own personal rescues.
Her compassion for animals also extends to dogs. Her late father, she revealed, had been a fellow animal lover who would also rescue canines.
She recalls rescuing her first dog in Melaka after hearing it had been unable to walk and had remained in the same spot for days. Ain brought the dog to a veterinary clinic, where it received much-needed treatment.
The felines charmed the FMT Lifestyle team with their catty antics. (Fauzi Yunus @ FMT Lifestyle)
Today, SI Home Shelter also has 11 dogs in its care. Asked about her views about dogs in the context of her religious beliefs, she replied: 'In Islam, we can perform the 'sertu', a cleansing ritual done seven times.
'As a Muslim, I've never neglected my religious obligations just because I care for dogs. I pray, and I know how to purify myself.'
Challenges and fulfilment
Running a shelter is not for the weak-hearted: it's a commitment that calls for unwavering dedication, emotional resilience, and significant financial resources.
Ain said the shelter's monthly operational costs exceed RM20,000, which cover food, cat litter, rent, staff salaries, utilities, and veterinary expenses.
While it largely depends on public donations, Ain and her husband also contribute out of their own pockets. Her husband runs his own business, while Ain juggles a part-time clerical job and a small business selling handmade items such as toys.
They also have a nine-year-old son with special needs.
These shelter residents have found a place of safety, healing and love. (Fauzi Yunus @ FMT Lifestyle)
Despite the many challenges, Ain remains steadfast in her mission. 'Once I stepped into the world of animal rescue, there was no turning back. These cats are my responsibility, and I can't abandon them.'
For her, fulfilment comes in witnessing an animal's recovery after receiving proper care. 'I am happiest when they eventually find a new family,' she concluded.
Connect with Nurul Ain on Instagram. To make a donation or adopt a furry friend, send a WhatsApp message to 013-513 1833.
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