Pat's a cat's best friend
When Ariel the stray tabby was found cold and lost on a northern suburbs beach, Pat Hakanson could be relied on to provide comfort.
Ms Hakanson has been working as a laundry volunteer at the Cat Haven for six years, joining a team of 230 who provide shelter and the rehoming for the 150 resident felines.
Her thousands of volunteer hours have earned her a nomination for the WA Volunteer of the Year Awards, held tonight.
Ms Hakanson said she responded to a call for help, expecting to volunteer for a short spell but has been turning up most weeks ever since.
"We don't do it to get a reward and it's not a lot really but it's just nice to see the cats being rescued and they've got something nice to snuggle up to," she said.
Cat Haven volunteer co-ordinator Sam Holliday said the haven was indebted to Ms Hakanson.
"Pat's efforts are very important," she said. "Part of being a shelter is keeping the cats happy and comfortable with soft bedding."
