A New Initiative of Boomer’s Haven Animal Rescue & Sanctuary

Warm Whiskers Project (WWP) supports communities across Alberta through a range of initiatives aimed at improving the lives of feral and stray cats. The WWP Barn Program places fully vetted feral and semi-feral cats on properties where they can thrive as working cats, while receiving consistent food, shelter, and a forever home. WWP also humanely traps stray and feral cats to spay or neuter, vaccinate, and return them to their original locations—where ongoing support is provided to maintain healthy, stable colonies. Additionally, using donated coolers and totes, WWP constructs insulated shelters to keep colony cats warm, dry, and protected from the harsh Alberta climate. Learn more about the WWP initiatives below.

Barn Program

Some cats simply aren’t cut out for living in-doors, but they still deserve safety, food, and purpose. That’s where our Barn Program comes in. We place fully vetted feral and semi-feral cats on properties where they can thrive as working cats while enjoying regular meals, shelter, and a forever home on their own terms.

Cooler /
Tote Shelters

When the cold Canadian winters hit, outdoor cats need warm, safe spaces to survive. Using donated coolers and totes, we build insulated shelters that keep colony cats cozy and protected from the elements. It’s a simple solution that makes a life-saving difference.

TNVR

The heart of what we do. Through Trap-Neuter / Spay-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR), we humanely trap feral and stray cats, spay/neuter and vaccinate them, and return them to their home colonies. This not only improves their health but also prevents endless cycles of kittens being born into harsh outdoor environments.

Colony Support

Behind every colony of community cats is a caretaker who ensures they’re fed, monitored, and cared for. We provide support with food, medical care, and supplies to help these caretakers maintain healthy and stable colonies.

Our Story

WWP was founded in December 2024 to improve the lives of stray and feral cats in Alberta. Their connection with Boomer's Haven Animal Rescue & Sanctuary (BHARS) began with a simple request for help transporting neonatal kittens—an interaction that sparked a growing relationship built on shared values and mutual support.

Over time, we collaborated on TNVR efforts, barn placements, and rescue operations, with each organization lending its strengths. In 2025, WWP officially came under the BHARS umbrella, combining our resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to animal welfare.

Together, we’re making it better for Alberta’s stray and feral cat communities.

Meet The Founders

Co-founder and WWP Director

Deveney Gillies

Growing up in a home where dogs were always present — and with early memories of caring for cats — Deveney has long had a deep connection to animals. However, it was in November 2024 that her connection to cats made an impactful return. After spotting four kittens playing outside in the first heavy snowfall of the season, Deveney felt compelled to bring them to safety. Successfully trapping the kittens opened her eyes to the feline overpopulation crisis in the community, particularly the urgent need for resources to support feral and stray cats. By December 2024, the Warm Whiskers Project was born — an initially small effort soon expanded to meet growing community needs. Today, WWP is proud to operate as an initiative under BHARS, working together to make a lasting difference for cats in need around Southern Alberta.

Co-founder & Coordinator

Brit Treichel

A lifelong animal lover, Brit's passion for animal welfare took on a new dimension in the fall of 2024. When their wife spotted a group of kittens playing in the snow, that moment marked the beginning of a journey trapping and caring for stray and feral cats. Since then, thanks to the overwhelming support from the local community, Brit has played an active role in addressing the needs of Southern Alberta’s stray and feral cat populations. From trapping and TNVR to barn programs and adoption journeys, WWP is dedicated to give every cat the best possible chance at a better life. Today, the Warm Whiskers Project is proud to be an extension of the BHARS team, working together to make it better for the cats who need us most.

Follow WWP on
Social Media

Get updates on our work with stray and feral cats, including TNVR efforts, community outreach, and ways you can help improve the lives of vulnerable cats in your area. Stay connected and be part of the solution!