Uncategorized | Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary

Volunteer Spotlight: Gwen D’Orazio

Aug 12, 2025

A Cattery Companion with a Heart for Cats
Suppose you’ve ever wandered into the Hallie Hill cattery on a quiet afternoon and spotted someone eating her lunch and giving head rubs to some affectionate felines. In that case, chances are you’ve met Gwen D’Orazio. A devoted weekly volunteer since 2023, Gwen has quickly become a favorite among the community cat colony and the “Sweethearts,” as she lovingly refers to the sanctuary’s resident cattery cats. Whether offering head rubs or simply providing a calm presence, Gwen has a special way of making each cat feel cherished.

Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, Gwen’s journey has taken her from the Southwest to the Northeast and now to the warm charm of the Lowcountry. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of New Mexico before launching a 20-year career in Boston as a jewelry buyer and product development design manager for a multi-channel catalog/website company. In 2015, Gwen and her husband traded snowstorms for sunshine and moved to Charleston—and she’s never looked back. Though she and her husband now share their home with a tennis-named pup named Rafa, Gwen’s heart has always belonged to cats. Over the years, she’s adopted three cats and cared for several feral colonies. One of those colony cats led her to Hallie Hill—a feral cat in need of rehoming brought her through our doors, and she says she’ll be forever grateful that we opened both our hearts and our sanctuary to him. By day, Gwen serves as a Content Director for an Amazon agency, but her passion for animals fills her spare time. She enjoys traveling, Pilates, and quiet evenings with her husband, but her weekly visits to Hallie Hill feed her soul. She calls it a “true blessing and honor” to volunteer alongside some of the most thoughtful and kind individuals she’s ever met.

Thank you, Gwen, for your dedication, compassion, and all the love you bring to our feline friends!

Volunteer Spotlight: Mia Balman

Jul 22, 2025

Introducing Mia Balman, one of our newest volunteers at the sanctuary. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Mia moved to Charleston in 2015 to attend the College of Charleston and quickly fell in love with the Lowcountry and its community of needy animals.

Mia is no stranger to rescuing herself; her beloved companion, Jabba, has been by her side since she was 19. A spirited German Shorthaired Pointer/Pittie mix, Jabba is now almost nine years old but full of life and personality. “He’s my entire world,” Mia says. “He keeps me active and busy with all his energy.”

Between graduate school, earning her master’s in social work, and her love of the outdoors, travel, and reading, Mia still makes time to give back—and Hallie Hill is lucky to be one of the places where she shares her time and heart.

“Volunteering at the sanctuary feels like a way I can give back to those who saved my baby, Jabba,” she says. “Having a facility like Hallie Hill has been my dream for the last 10+ years—something I talk about as my ‘early retirement plan.’ Being a part of it now is so special. And honestly, every animal here has completely stolen my heart.”

We are beyond grateful to have Mia as part of the Hallie Hill family—her passion, compassion, and commitment are truly inspiring. Volunteers like Mia help us give second chances to animals in need, and we couldn’t do it without them.

Tips to Give Your Cat a Happy Start in their New Home

Jun 8, 2025

Congratulations on getting a new furry friend! Bringing a cat into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or just adding another member to your feline family, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure that your cat feels safe, comfortable, and loved. In this post, we’ll share some essential tips for caring for your new cat to guarantee a smooth transition into your home.

1. Develop a routine

Creating a consistent schedule is an important way to ensure your cat’s comfort. Set aside regular times for meal, play, and other activities, including just spending time with them.

2. Offer hiding spaces

Being in a new environment can be scary for cats, and providing a space that feels secure can ease some of that anxiety. Provide a mix of high and low hiding spaces that are small but not too small. A hiding space could be as simple as a cardboard box, or you could buy a cat cave/condo. If it’s cozy and has a good view of the rest of the room, your cat is sure to feel safe.

3. Don’t forget grooming

Just like your own, maintaining your cat’s hygiene is essential for its health and happiness. Regularly brush your cat’s fur and teeth and trim its claws.

4. Provide the basics

Food, water, two litter boxes, a scratching post, a bed, and toys are a perfect start to your supply of cat essentials.

5. Provide a safe space

Getting your cat acclimated to its new home isn’t difficult. Start your new cat in a small room with all the basic necessities, including some of your unwashed clothes so your cat can get used to your scent. Once your cat is ready, let it explore one new room at a time.

Support Hallie Hill at Our Annual Putting for Paws Golf Tournament Fundraiser

May 30, 2025

Get ready to tee off for a great cause! The Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary is hosting its annual Putting 4 Paws golf tournament fundraiser on Monday, June 9, at The Links at Stono Ferry. This annual event helps us support the 200+ animals in care at Halllie Hill and is a fun day with friends and family to hit the links.

Registration for the shotgun scramble will begin at 8 a.m. on Monday, June 9, with a start time of 9 a.m. While playing, enjoy a complimentary Bloody Mary bar and lunch, as beverage carts will travel the course throughout the day. If you can’t play on June 9 but still want to support Hallie Hill, we have sponsorship opportunities, and donations are always welcome.

We’d love for you to come out on Monday, June 9, to support Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary at the annual golf tournament fundraiser, Putting for Paws. For more information, to register to play, or to sponsor this event, please click here.

PETSinc Mobile at Hallie Hill

May 25, 2025

On April 10th, Hallie Hill hosted its second monthly surgery and clinic, partnering again with PETSinc to provide low-cost veterinary services. In April, there were 25 surgeries for spay and neuter and 23 well checks. Hallie Hill Executive Director Jennifer Middleton said she hopes the events continue to grow. “We are so excited to be able to put our new medical clinic to use. Offering low-cost veterinary services is a great way to make sure our medical clinic is serving a key role in animal welfare in the area,” she said.

The next clinic will be Thursday, May 8th. Surgeries are by appointment only, please follow the link below to schedule! Wellness checkups do not require an appointment and are offered on a first come, first served basis.

Click here to schedule an appointment!

May’s Adorable Adoptables

May 20, 2025

Looking to add a furry friend to your family? From playful pups to sweet, cuddly cats, there’s a perfect match for every pet lover! We’re excited to introduce some of this month’s amazing adoptable animals, who are waiting for a chance to start a new chapter. Take a moment to meet them, and who knows, your new best friend might just be waiting for you!

Click here to fill out an application and come meet these wonderful animals!

Todd

Todd is a striking young hound, who is about 9 months old. He is a great medium size, with a sleek black and tan coat and an abundance of energy to match his good looks. This lively boy is always ready for action, whether it’s a romp in the yard or a playful game with his dog pals at the sanctuary.

Liza

Liza is small but mighty! She is full of non-stop energy. Cute as can be with those adorable ears, perfect size, and gorgeous color! She will benefit from structure and positive training and will make a fun companion once someone put the effort into her. Liza shares her pen with another dog and would do best with an easygoing “sibling”.

JB

Whether he’s sniffing out new adventures or enjoying a cozy cuddle, JB is sure to steal your heart. If you’re looking for a loyal and loving companion with a nose for discovery, JB is ready to join your family and make every day an adventure!

Ranier

Ranier is a 2-month-old calico kitten with a coat as vibrant as her personality. This little lady is a bundle of joy who will brighten even the cloudiest days. Playful, curious, and always up for an adventure, Ranier loves chasing feather toys, pouncing on crinkly balls, and exploring every nook and cranny in her world. Adopt Ranier today, and make your home her forever playground!