Denise Bynum | How One Volunteer Became a Lifeline for Community Cats
Denise Bynum | How One Volunteer Became a Lifeline for Community Cats
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In this episode of the Top Dog Podcast, Denise Bynum, Director of the Homeless Animals Relief Project (HARP), shares how a single act of helping a neighbor’s cat completely changed the course of her retirement. What began as transporting one cat to a low-cost spay appointment has grown into leading an organization that helps hundreds of community cats each year across North Mississippi.
After spending more than four decades as a nurse, educator, and nursing program director, Denise wasn’t planning to lead an animal welfare organization. But as she became more involved with HARP, she discovered a new purpose—helping people who wanted to care for their cats but simply couldn’t afford veterinary services.
“The more I did, the more I loved it.”
One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is the importance of making spay and neuter accessible. Through partnerships with veterinary clinics, volunteers, rescue groups, and generous donors, HARP provides affordable services that prevent thousands of unwanted kittens while supporting families throughout rural communities.
“Let’s work together.”
Rather than working alone, Denise believes collaboration is the key to success. Whether loaning traps, coordinating transport, sharing equipment, or partnering with other rescues on large-scale projects, she has seen firsthand how organizations can accomplish far more when they combine resources.
“That’s what can happen when you work together.”
Denise also discusses the science and strategy behind Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), explaining how education, patience, and proven techniques have helped HARP achieve remarkable success trapping even the most elusive community cats.
“If you do what I tell you, you will catch these cats.”
Throughout the conversation, Denise reminds listeners that community cat work isn’t just about cats—it’s about people. Every phone call represents someone looking for help, and every successful spay or neuter brings relief to families, caregivers, and neighborhoods alike.
“I’ve just been praying for somebody to help me.”
At its core, this episode is about service, compassion, and discovering that it’s never too late to find a new purpose. Denise’s story is proof that one small act of kindness can grow into a mission that changes an entire community.
“Helping people and helping His creatures.”
This message is especially important for Dooberteers, volunteers, transporters, and community cat advocates. Every trap set, every cat fixed, and every partnership formed helps create healthier communities for both animals and the people who care for them.
If you’re passionate about helping animals, join the Doobert community where volunteers, fosters, transporters, and organizations work together to save lives every day. Visit Doobert.com to get involved.
And don’t forget to subscribe to the Top Dog Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.
Do you know any Top Dogs we should interview? We’re always looking for amazing people in animal welfare to feature on the podcast. Send us an email at tdp@doobert.com.
