Harwood Rescue on Animal Planet’s ‘Must Love Cats’ Saturday

This Saturday evening, grab the remote, pop some popcorn and tune in to the Discovery Channel to watch Harwood-based Rude Ranch make its debut on Animal Planet’s “Must Love Cats.“

Taping of "Must Love Cats". Photo courtesy of Rude Ranch.

The show was taped this past fall when host John Fuller and crew stopped by to film the segment. The crew spent an entire day interviewing owners Kathy and Bob Rude, the rescues’ volunteers, and the 102 cats and 2 dogs that live at the shelter.

The Rudes said their shelter was selected based on its ability to cater to special needs cats (and dogs) and its unique location. The shelter is home to both the rescued cats and the Rudes.

Rude Ranch’s portion of Must Love Cats will showcase the different areas of the shelter; walk individuals through the adoption process; and offer information and tips on caring for special needs animals.

The show ends with Fulton and a troop of Girl Scouts from the North Beach/Chesapeake Beach area singing an original song about Rude Ranch created on-site by Fulton himself.

Must Love Cats is hosted by musician John Fulton. The show is in its second season and is a “celebration of fascinating felines and the fascinating people who love them.” It airs at 8 p.m. on Animal Planet.

Filming of the Rude Ranch episode of "Must Love Cats." Photo courtesy of Rude Ranch.

The Rudes said they hope the show raises awareness for animal abuse and neglect. The couple have rescued some 5,000 abandoned, neglected and farrel cats over the past 10 years.

Each week, the shelter saves two-three cats.  It costs around $125 a month to care for one cat.

Rude Ranch secures its funds through private donations and fundraisers. For additional information email info@ruderanch.org; or visit www.ruderanch.org.