Meet Rhonda!

Rhonda Walsh

Founder, Chair of The Board

Rhonda founded Purrfect Seniors in June 2024 with a simple yet powerful goal to give senior cats the advocacy and forever homes they deserve. As Chair of the Board, she leads the organization’s direction, supports its volunteers, and oversees day-to-day operations. 

A passion for animals has shaped Rhonda’s life from an early age. Growing up in a home that fostered cats and cared for dogs, she quickly developed a strong sense of empathy and responsibility toward animals. She loved stepping in to care for friends’ and neighbours’ pets whenever they were away. Now, while a full-time student, she volunteers with Purrfect Seniors and opens her home to cats in need of foster care with nowhere else to go.

In December 2023, a sassy dilute tortoiseshell cat appeared at Rhonda’s home. After searching for her owner with no success, Rhonda knew that she was meant to keep her. She named her Sylvie, and they have been inseparable ever since. Sylvie’s adoption marked an important time in Rhonda’s life. Not only did she gain a best friend, but she realized how many cats are without homes and an accompanying trend: many of them are older. This inspired Rhonda to advocate for these overlooked animals who don’t have voices to advocate for themselves, and ultimately led to the founding of Purrfect Seniors. 

Rhonda shares her time between her hometown of London, Ontario and Halifax, Nova Scotia. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Business and is now pursuing a post-graduate diploma. Rhonda enjoys spending time with Sylvie, her friends and family, doing craft projects (especially as fundraisers for Purrfect Seniors), and being outdoors. 

Rhonda is proud of how far Purrfect Seniors has come in a short time. What started as a passion project has grown into a vibrant organization with a strong group of volunteers. She cannot wait to see what is next!

You can read more about what inspired the founding of Purrfect Seniors on the “Our Story” page.