York Adopt-A-Pet A Paws for Pets
York, Nebraska
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York Adopt-A-Pet
228 East 5th Street
York, NE 68467
If you have questions
Phone: 402-362-4959 or 402-362-6414
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York Adopt-A-Pet
228 East 5th Street
York, NE 68467
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February
5, 2010
Git 'R Done Gary
A paws' for pets
Git 'R Done Gary
There is a proverb that says “It takes a whole village to raise a child”. To run a successful rescue animal shelter it also takes the whole village. It takes the young, the not so young, the faithful and compassionate people who give their time and effort to rescue, care and hopefully adopt the cats and dogs to their “forever” homes.
We
at York-Adopt-A-Pet have a whole village working diligently to rescue
the strays, abandoned and abused cats in York and our surrounding area.
It always helps to have a Gary Pinney in your village. The volunteers
at the cat sanctuary know exactly what I am talking about. A new idea,
a suggestion for anything and everything that makes the work easier for
the volunteers, Gary is on hand and ready and willing to do our
bidding. Marilyn and Judy have commented numerous times, “Is
there
anything that Gary can't get done?”The drain runs slow, call Gary. We need screen doors installed, new screens on the windows, new flooring, shelves built, stands made for the kennels, call Gary.
At the Cat Sanctuary he has rebuilt the building several times over. We started slow, it began as Bob's work shop and ended up housing hundreds and hundreds of cats over the past 12 years. We began by putting a ceiling in, tearing out all of Bob's work benches to make room for kennels. The cement floor gave way to tile, an addition to the south side was put on as a simple sun room. Soon it was enclosed, insulated and the dirt floor was dug out (by Gary), a cement floor poured (by Gary) and then a tile floor was installed (by Gary).
It seems weekly there is a crisis that needs immediate attention. The cats found a hole and are tearing out the insulation. Call Gary. He delivers the cat food that is donated from Iams to the cat sanctuary, and has hauled tons of new and used cat litter.
Not only does he do the bidding for the 12 to 15 volunteers asking for new door knobs to be installed or a bulletin board hung, but he is also on call when we need help with a cat or kitten rescue. The first rescue 10 or more years ago was two baby kittens stuck behind a cupboard in an abandoned house. We got permission from the owner, and Gary dismantled a whole wall pantry to reach the two little kittens. I can remember naming them Gary and Donna after he and his wife Donna, even though he probably still has scars today from them scratching him as he pulled them to safety.
Then there was the rescue on a country road that he rigged up a long pole with a round lid to push a cat hiding in a culvert through to the other side. This rescue took about three days before the cat finally shot out the other end and Gary ran it down a ditch and was able to catch it. She was a beautiful cat, she was declawed and was so scared she had remained in the same spot without food or water. I named her Michelle and today she is living the good life with her owner in Utica.
He has climbed down a sewer drain to rescue a small black kitten heard crying as a mother and her daughter were walking along Delaware Avenue. Just recently Gary climbed a huge maple tree to rescue Fred who had been up the tree for several days. The home owner couldn't entice him down and called to see if we could help. Gary fetched a ladder, climbed the tree and plucked the cat before we could get a kennel ready for him. Fred is at the cat sanctuary waiting patiently for his forever home.
I know Gary has made the volunteers’ work much easier. One day we want stands for the kennels, the next day we decide we need casters so they would be easier to move when clean. Then we need sides added so the cats can't get underneath to hide. Each new request is met with good natured banter, but the bottom line is the stands were built, casters and sides were added almost as soon as requested. So on behalf of each and every volunteer that has been associated with the Cat Sanctuary we all thank you for making our workload much easier.
And from all the cats and kittens that have benefited from your efforts you will be met with the attitude ... I am a cat and that is that.
January
29, 2010
Teach the children
A paws' for pets
Teach the children
I was going through some old photos and ran across one of my first dogs, Rusty, a cocker spaniel. I had placed five hats on top of her head and she patiently sat there as I amused myself. But Rusty loved that kind of attention. I could not help but remember the many things we did together in my youth. In the 40s we had to make our own entertainment. As children, there was nothing organized for us to do and we used our creative minds to keep us busy. Anytime I complained about not having anything to do, my mom would show me the front door and out we went, Rusty by my side. That dog had the patience of Job. I taught her some obedience training from a 4-H pamphlet that was given to me. I didn't know what I was doing, but managed to teach her to sit, lay down and stay. By then, she was a year old and I was 11. I had no idea, at that time in my life, how this would help to mold me into becoming a person who has always loved and wanted to care for animals.
Rusty's journey with me started when I was in grade school and it became a ritual for her to wait for me to come home from school. This continued through high school and there was never a time where she didn't appear overjoyed to greet me on my return. One of the most difficult days of my young life was saying good-bye to Rusty as I got into the car to leave for college in Texas. I knew she would not understand why I would not be coming home that day and the days to follow. She was my best friend, yet I could not convey to her what was happening. But, Rusty adjusted just fine. It took me a little longer.
When families come to adopt a dog from York Adopt-A-Pet, you can see the eagerness in the children's faces. They are so excited at bringing a pet home to be part of their family. Many of these families make time for their dog and include him in their normal daily activities. But, sadly, some are ignored after the newness wears off. It is different in today's world. Children are so busy with organized activities that it takes families away from home a lot more than it did for us. But, dogs do not ask for much. They just want to be with you as much as possible. They do not want to be isolated in a kennel outside or at the end of a chain. If this is where your dog is going to end up living his life, then you need to know that each day is an eternity for him as he spends it alone.
We hope to change that in the York area. When our new Adopt-A-Pet shelter opens in the spring, we are going to target the youth. We want to have education seminars with emphasis on how to be a good pet owner. I would like to see them have the opportunity to work one-on-one with a dog or cat, gaining first-hand knowledge of the love that an animal can give when properly treated. And hopefully, this can set a standard that will carry through to their children and on and on. It has to start somewhere and if we teach the children, then the foundation is laid.
We had a student come to us six years ago wanting to volunteer at our shelter. She was in the sixth grade at the time. I remember her being a little shy, but so willing to help and learn. She had never been exposed to so many large dogs, some of which were unruly, but she eventually overcame any anxieties that she might have had and soon became confident and let her natural instincts take over in her handling of the dogs. Noelle Gerken is set to graduate this spring and next fall she will begin college, pursuing her career in veterinary technology. Noelle is the perfect example of a good pet owner. She adores her two beagles, Blossom and Buddy, and best of all, she still volunteers for us at the shelter. We want to see more Noelle Gerkens. We want the youth of York to know that we care about them and will encourage them to be part of our dream when the new shelter is up and running.
They will find there is a lot to be learned from having a pet and working with them. My dogs have taught me many things over the years. We know the children of today are busy, but spending time with a pet can give them the opportunity to slow down their structured lives a little and enjoy one of the simplest pleasures of life.
January
22, 2010
Rescue of Blake Allen
A paws' for pets
Rescue of Blake Allen
On a bitter cold afternoon in early January I received a call from the south Casey's along Lincoln and Nobes avenue.
One of the employees had seen a small orange and white cat seeking shelter on the south side of the building. Each time a customer would approach the front door, this little guy would dart back to the west side of the building. His is not the first call we have had from this location over the years. But this call was when the wind chill was well below zero and snow covered the ground by 8 to 12 inches. The trap was set around 3 in the afternoon and put close enough to where the kitten had been seen, but far enough back that he would not be intimidated by the customers coming and going. I left wet cat food in the live trap. I knew it would freeze in just a matter of several minutes, but was hoping the scent would still entice this little guy to seek the food in the trap that was protected by a blanket. The employees assured me they would continually check the trap and call me as soon as he was caught. One hour turned into two and the afternoon faded into the evening. It was BITTER cold and each time the phone rang I hoped that it would be the call that the little kitten had been caught. By 7 p.m. no call had been made. I was playing bridge that evening so called and asked them to call me on my cell phone if there was any activity at the live trap.
That's
one thing about being in involved in “rescue” work. There
are no 9 to 5
positions available. It is literally 24/7 365 days a year. You live
with your cell phone in your pocket.My trusty cell rang at 9 p.m. and the employee said the little cat was in the trap, and they had moved it into the back room to get him out of the wind and cold. My friend Jerrine Brugh and I left bridge and before taking her home she went with me to pick up the little guy. He was this little fur ball and that was about it, his hip bones stuck out, you could feel his ribs and he just sat huddled in the cage. I got him in the house and put him on a heating pad in the bathroom. I filled the water and food dishes high and left him huddled on his little blanket. His eyes followed every move I made, he never hissed or tried to scratch but just sat there watching me. I thought he would immediately start eating, but I think he was too weak and cold to be interested. I opened a can of wet food and left him to sort out his new surroundings.
The next morning very little of the food was gone, and he was still very scared and apprehensive. Each time I went in, I picked him up, and petted his back with heavy strokes. Young cats respond to this due to the way their mothers clean and groom their young. The mothers show no nonsense with their kittens and if you ever watch a mother cat groom her kittens, you might notice how they push the kittens down as they are grooming them.
About a week went by and it was the same reaction, he was tense and very fearful. Then the day came when I was power petting him when I heard a low rumble and realized that he was purring. From purring came cuddling and then rubbing against my feet and legs. He is now gaining weight, was Felv tested, vaccinated and most important I have gained his trust. He still gets nervous when he is out of the bathroom and his element, but I know that given time that will change as well.
Not all rescue efforts have a happy ending, especially with the huge population of feral cats. But a successful rescue is what keeps you going, it gives you the drive to set another trap, and to rescue another starving and freezing animal. And if you look at Blake Allen's attached picture you will see a little guy that was given a second chance. Blake Allen is one of the many reasons York has an organization called York Adopt-A-Pet. The need is so great and you can see why York Adopt-A-Pet is appreciated by people who have pets and even those who don't have pets. The citizens of York County know there are many dedicated volunteers who continue to grow in numbers as time goes on. These volunteers both long term and newer to the organization are the ones who have volunteered to help with both dogs and cats ... faithfully and without fanfare. They are what has helped build the positive reputation of York Adopt-A-Pet that is known statewide and each and every volunteer works hard to rescue and care for abandoned, lost and abused animals. Adopt-A-Pet is only as successful as its many dedicated volunteers and supporters.
The Mission of York Adopt-A-Pet is: To provide a safe haven for the dogs and cats placed in our custody. To find the best and most suitable homes for these dogs and cats. To educate the public on the need to treat all pets with dignity and love. To reduce pet overpopulation.
Take another look at Blake Allen and you can see that he is also thankful for York Adopt-A-Pet.
January
15, 2010
A Christmas to remember
A paws' for pets
A Christmas to remember
Looking back on the holidays brings to mind how many of us shared a mixture of anxiety, disappointment, agony and joy. Everyone has their own story to tell.
The blizzard created havoc in our lives at a crucial time when many of us were planning out of town festivities or waiting for loved ones to arrive, and the unknown on how things would turn out affected us all.
At first light on Christmas Eve morning, I drove out to the farm to take care of the llamas and cats of a friend who is out of state. Freezing rain was already coming down and I knew the blizzard was not far behind. I wanted to leave extra food for the animals for fear that I would not be able to return for a few days. As it turned out, I should have left a lot more, for it was not long before the roads were drifted shut and would not be cleared for days.
After arriving back home, I made sure all my bird feeders were full, corn was left for the squirrels and fresh heated water was available for all. I settled into my home for the rest of the day, after talking to our children in Omaha, and sensibly postponing our Christmas plans until travel was safe. Christmas Eve services at the church had to be canceled, so it looked as though it would be just the dogs and me celebrating Christmas together. As I spent a quiet evening watching television, I heard an unusual rustling sound in my bedroom. Upon investigation, I discovered Cinder, the plump rescue dog from Missouri, lying on the dog bed with a somewhat guilty look on her face. On the bed beside her, were the remains of a holiday box that had contained peanut clusters that had been packed away in a sack of presents that was to go to Omaha .
"Forget the vet,” I thought. "We're in the middle of a blizzard and besides, its Christmas Eve!" So, I got out the hydrogen peroxide, and mixed it half and half with water and squirted a syringe down her throat. Nothing. I did it again ... and again. After five syringes , frustration took over and I gave her a straight shot of peroxide. Soon, she was taking the familiar "gagging dog stance" and before long, I was holding a towel full of half chewed up peanut clusters that were promptly deposited in the trash.
That pretty much summed up my Christmas Eve.
The next day I experienced my first Christmas alone ... without humans that is ... and found myself talking to the dogs the entire day. They are good company and always agree with everything I say! I visited on the phone with my children and grandchildren, as we wished each other Merry Christmas and assured each other we would get together soon.
But later on, the tranquility of the day was interrupted by a phone call from Lisa Starr of the York Fire Department that would eventually rob me of several night's sleep. There had been an accident on the interstate near Waco involving a vehicle carrying three German shorthair dogs. The owners were being transported to the hospital. Two of the dogs were contained in the fire truck, but one ran off when his kennel broke open during the crash. We, at Adopt-A-Pet, were helpless. Suddenly, we felt like prisoners in our own homes, because we were not able to respond and assist in efforts to find the dog.
The firemen were able to make their way to our shelter in the blinding blizzard and managed to get the two dogs safely inside. I am guessing they probably had to park a distance away and carry them in. What a wonderful fire department York has! Bless you all!
Our kennel manager, Kim Hart, then took over. She and her husband, Tom, walked to the shelter the next morning to care for the dogs and for several days, walking was the only way they could get there. At Adopt-A-Pet, they faced drifts over their heads as they made their way inside the shelter. Then they had to clear a path so the dogs could be let out of their kennels. It was a monumental task. Kim immediately made contact with the owners of the dogs that were in the accident, Kelly Michaels and Chadd Priefert. She was instrumental in keeping their hopes up that Kelso, their third dog, would be safely returned to them, despite the mounting odds against it. Many of you no doubt read the article in the York paper, written by Kate Burke, on the accident and the search for Kelso. Then you would know that 10 days after the accident, Kelso was found, thin and frostbitten but very much alive, by Pat and Bruce Olson of Waco.
He was reunited that night with his grateful owners and for many of us, at Adopt-A-Pet, this was the best Christmas gift we could have received. Kim Hart had put her heart and soul into this rescue. She and Tom spent many cold hours on the interstate checking out calls of Kelso sightings. Kim spoke on the phone multiple times daily, keeping the owners informed of what was going on. When the word came to us that Kelso was found, the first reaction was to cheer ... but soon the tears began to fall.
Chadd and Kelly were good pet owners, they never gave up looking and Kim was overcome with emotion ... mostly for them. I know the feeling well and it can literally bring you to your knees. Many of us had laid awake at night, thinking of Kelso, a pampered house pet, out in the snow, alone and no doubt suffering in the subzero weather. But the gift of his rescue erased all of that ... joy and thankfulness took over and warmed our bodies and gave us a restful night’s sleep.
This was a Christmas that will never be forgotten.
A special thanks goes out to David and Heather Derr, who once again, fought their way through the drifts to see that the llamas were cared for and to Kim and Tom Hart for their dedication to the Adopt-A-Pet dogs during such difficult conditions. York, and the surrounding area are truly blessed with good neighbors and caring people.
January
8, 2010
Every cat equals one story
A paws' for pets
Every cat equals one story
So many cats, so many stories. 2009 was such a busy year at the cat sanctuary.
We would adopt five cats and we would receive nine in as quickly as the adoptions would happen, the phone would ring, a cat found in a ditch, a mother and seven newborn babies found in a window well. At times the cats become a blur, that is why we name each and every cat or kitten that comes into the sanctuary. Their only number is the number that they were received into the Sanctuary. We never talk about the black cat or the yellow cat, we talk about Betsy and Maxim. Cats and kittens have their own name and own identity.
Those who have never been in rescue work must find it hard to understand what motivates someone to do this. I can say it is the most frustrating venture that I have ever taken on but by far the most rewarding experience of life that anyone can imagine. You get frustrated when you realize that no matter how hard you try to keep up with the abandoned cats and kittens there is simply no way. You are frustrated when you find a mother cat left in a house with baby kittens and the owners have moved out of town. You hear the same tired stories. Susie doesn't play with her kitten now that the kitten has grown into a cat and we are too busy to take care of him. I was going to have her spayed but have just been too busy and now I am sure she is about ready to have kittens. Another tired line is we are moving and we can't take our cat with us, oh and by the way we are moving tomorrow morning, can we bring the cat by or better yet, could you swing over and pick him up??? I think our cat is sick and I don't have any money to take him to the vet and we are going on a month’s vacation and don't know what to do with a sick cat can you take him? No money for a vet visit but money for a month’s vacation? What is wrong with this picture? The excuses are varied, the irresponsible acts are numerous and just when I think I have heard it all, something new comes up.
But for every irresponsible pet owner there are more who are kind and caring. And amazingly enough it is not always those who have pets that are the first to step forward to help an animal in stress. I have seen the true kindness shown in so many ways, and it is those acts that make it easier to deal with the great numbers that pass through the sanctuary. The homeless man who found three tiny kittens taped in a cardboard box that had been tossed into a roadside ditch. He carried the box into town and left them at the shelter as he told Kim, he didn't want the kittens to be homeless.
To the guys who bring cat litter and leaves it on my front porch more times than I can count.
To the many donations received at Christmas by people who have adopted as many as five years ago that still remembers the cats that may have not found their forever home.
To the volunteers at the cat sanctuary who are so dedicated and loyal to their cat charges. They are so diligent in watching over the smallest of kittens, to the eldest of senior cats. They are the heroes of the rescue effort to stop the suffering and hunger of animals left to die on the streets. We see the injured, the cats who have given up hope. We see the cats who come in that are scared and not trusting of any humans and we see them slowly accept that not all humans are the enemy.
I have a great respect for the volunteers at the Cat Sanctuary. Every volunteer has their special quality that has made the sanctuary the success that it has. I have never asked a volunteer for help that they have not only done what is asked, but always asked what more they could do. They like and care for all of the cats, but most have a few special cats that they are thrilled when their “pet cats” are adopted into their forever homes, especially those cats who have waited for so long to be adopted. They are just as sad when a health issue strikes unexpectedly and we lose a cat.
The volunteers are a special group of people who are making a difference in so many cat and kittens lives. This year alone they have helped care for 515 cats and kittens that have been residents of the sanctuary.
These are just a few of the cats and kittens that have passed through the doors of the sanctuary and each one has a story. So many cats, so many stories. There will be more cats and kittens in 2010. So many cats, so many stories yet to be told.
December 25, 2009
Twas the night before Christmas
Twas the night before Christmas,
when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
With no thought of the dog filling their head.
And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,
Knew he was cold, but didn't care about that.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Figuring the dog was free and into the trash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the luster of midday to objects below,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But Santa Claus - his eyes full of tears.
He unchained the dog, once so lively and quick,
Last years Christmas present, now thin and sick.
More rapid than eagles he called the dog's name.
And the dog ran to him, despite all his pain;
"Now, DASHER! Now, DANCER! Now, PRANCER and VIXEN!
On, COMET! On CUPID! On, DONNER and BLITZEN!
To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!
Let's find this dog a home where he'll be loved by all"
I knew in an instant there would be no gifts this year,
For Santa Claus had made one thing quite clear,
The gift of a dog is not just for the season,
We had gotten the pup for all the wrong reasons.
In our haste to think of giving the kids a gift
There was one important thing that we missed.
A dog should be family, and cared for the same
You don't give a gift, then put it on a chain.
And I heard him exclaim as he rode out of sight,
"You weren't given a gift! You were given a life!"
– Author unknown
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
With no thought of the dog filling their head.
And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,
Knew he was cold, but didn't care about that.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Figuring the dog was free and into the trash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the luster of midday to objects below,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But Santa Claus - his eyes full of tears.
He unchained the dog, once so lively and quick,
Last years Christmas present, now thin and sick.
More rapid than eagles he called the dog's name.
And the dog ran to him, despite all his pain;
"Now, DASHER! Now, DANCER! Now, PRANCER and VIXEN!
On, COMET! On CUPID! On, DONNER and BLITZEN!
To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!
Let's find this dog a home where he'll be loved by all"
I knew in an instant there would be no gifts this year,
For Santa Claus had made one thing quite clear,
The gift of a dog is not just for the season,
We had gotten the pup for all the wrong reasons.
In our haste to think of giving the kids a gift
There was one important thing that we missed.
A dog should be family, and cared for the same
You don't give a gift, then put it on a chain.
And I heard him exclaim as he rode out of sight,
"You weren't given a gift! You were given a life!"
– Author unknown
December
18, 2009
What a guy!
A paws' for pets
What a guy!
Back on the evening of May 19, 1962, I opened the front door of my home in McCool. There standing on the porch was my first date with a “guy” named Bob from Fairmont. First date jitters, he came in sat on the edge of the sofa as my mom was not so subtly “checking” this “guy” out, firing one question after another: How old are you, how many brothers and sisters, etc., etc., etc. when in saunters our white cat named appropriately White Cat who had a definite attitude. Stretching up to sink her claws into Bob's knee, she immediately sat right in front of him and tended to her personal hygiene. Those who have a cat know exactly what I am talking about. Bob looked ill at ease and said, “I don't like cats, never had a cat and never will.”
Now fast forward to Dec. 18, 2009. This is the guy who grudgingly allowed a cat named Puddy Tat to take over our home for 17 years as Ryan and Amber's childhood cat. This is the guy who in 1998 grudgingly allowed me to kick him out of his workshop in our back yard and transformed the building into a shelter for cats, a shelter that housed the cats and kittens of York Adopt a Pet. It became known as the Cat Sanctuary but to most it was apply named the “Cat House.” This is the guy who, although I don't think he has ever cleaned a litter box, has “allowed” his life and his home to be forever changed by cats and kittens. This is the guy who said he would never have a cat. In the past year alone, 502 cats and kittens have “shared” his space at 408 Ohio. He has grown used to trying to mow the backyard with dozens of cats who, even with the roar of the mower, refuse to move from its path. He has learned to ask before opening the garage door, bathroom door, office door, bedroom door or utility to see if it is occupied with a mother and baby kittens, a sick cat or one that has an attitude with the other cats. He is patient with the phone ringing constantly, the dozens of people coming to the house to drop off cats and to adopt cats. He knows that we very seldom go out of town that I don't have a cat going along for the ride either to be dropped off, or babies that need bottle feeding. He has been understanding when we have come home with an extra passenger that I have found either in a ditch or in a parking lot. (I always have a cat carrier in the car.) He has made the trips to Eppley Airfield in Omaha for the 4 a.m. morning flights to ship a cat to a new home from San Diego to New York City. Probably more important he has NEVER grumbled about the expense of the constant upkeep of the cat sanctuary, and the rental that just has been used to keep the smaller kittens and cats under 6 months old.
The utilities at our home keep heat and air conditioning in a building with a 10x12 inch opening to allow the cats to go in and out along with the heat and cool air. Before the Suburban was donated by the Stan and JoAnn Williams of Bradshaw, there were the monthly trips to HUA in Auburn, the cleaning supplies, the cat litter ... well the list goes on and on. But I think this past Friday is more than above and beyond what most “guys” would do. The heat went out at the rental property where the baby kittens and young cats were kept. It was 10 degrees outside and even though we had heating pads for the kittens, at 10 p.m. Bob made the decision to take up an electric space heater, but knowing that young cats can get into trouble with such things he decided to spend the night to safeguard the space heater and the kittens and cats.
He dressed in his parka, boots, hat and gloves and took a thermos of hot coffee. The small love seat being too short and already occupied by a dozen or so cats as seen in the attached photo, he slept on the concrete floor with a couple of pillows and a cat blanket. He said that when he woke at 1:30 he could see his breath and he was covered in cats. He has lamented that it was the longest night in history, and that he nearly froze, but the heater stayed upright, and although the kittens were chilly, they survived the night. The furnace was fixed and running the next morning, and all is well.
To think Tiger Woods is in all kinds of trouble with his “catting around,” while Bob spends a whole night in a “cat house” and his wife is saying “what a guy!” Very soon Bob can reclaim his work shop, his back yard and various rooms in the house, he will revamp the rental and rent it out to humans. The new York Adopt a Pet building will be completed in the spring and the cats and kittens will be gone from our home. Without his support, understanding and patience this journey I chose in 1998 would have been impossible. This is the same “guy” who some 47 years ago, said I don't like cats, never had a cat and never will. Say what? This is the same “guy” who volunteered to spend the night in a house with no heat sleeping on a cement floor “covered” in cats 47 years later? Little did he know that not only would he own a cat, but would foster some 3,600 cats and kittens and probably had the only state licensed “cat house” in the state of Nebraska in his very own back yard.
You're quite a “guy” Bob and I sincerely thank you and, oh by the way, “the cat’s out of the bag.” The cats and I have known all along and now every one else knows as well. Bob Roth secretly likes cats ...
December
11, 2009
They depend on you
A paws' for pets
They depend on you
I
feel fortunate to live in an agricultural area. York is surrounded by
roads leading to the country and over the years, I have spent a lot of
time on them. Often, at Adopt A Pet, we are called on to help catch a
stray dog or cat that has been lost or dumped. I take advantage of
those trips by scanning the beautiful countryside in hopes of spotting
a deer or any wildlife that we might be lucky enough to see.As a child, I would stay with my cousin on the farm, and I loved being around the cattle, pigs, horses, chickens, dogs and cats. I think my uncle had names for nearly all of them ... he had a passion for his work and had stories to tell about them that would capture our attention.
A friend and volunteer at York Adopt A Pet, Sue Murphy, lives on a farm near York. Sue breeds and shows Irish Setters and her pups are magnificent. People are on a waiting list to purchase one of her puppies and she is very selective as to who might receive one.
The truth is Sue has a love for all animals and her own receive the very best of care. She and her husband moved here from Colorado about five years ago, bringing with them their Irish Setters, the barn cats and two goats.
Afraid the coyotes might kill their goats, they purchased two llamas to protect them. The female was Belisima, a 13-year-old retired breeder and Belisima’s 8-month-old son named Little George. After getting the llamas for protection for the goats, they decided they needed some guinea hens to pick the ticks off of the llamas. Their livestock population kept growing.
But five years later the goats have died, the guineas succumbed to predators and acts of nature, leaving Belisima and Little George by themselves in the pasture. There is only one original Colorado cat left now, Mama Kitty. Sue decided Mama needed a companion, so she adopted Gail from LaMoine at the cat sanctuary.
Gail was named after me, by LaMoine, because I am the one who trapped her as a feral kitten on my front porch. She is now beautiful and very sociable, and best of all, doesn't have to live the dangerous life of a feral cat anymore.
Sue has been spending some time, on and off, with her mother in Colorado, who is ill. The dogs go with Sue, but she has asked me to care for the llamas and cats while she is gone.
I enjoy it. This summer is when I first got acquainted with the animals. Sue told me Little George is shy and may not come to me. But it wasn't long before both llamas recognized my car as I came down the country road, tooting my horn at them, as I pulled into the lane to the farm. They would stop grazing and run full speed to the gate, waiting for me to come and feed them their grain. I would hold their food dishes over the fence and it wasn't long before Little George knew I could be trusted and they would each take their time eating, chewing slowly, enjoying every mouthful. I remember thinking, "They eat as though someone has taught them manners."
Belisima is now 17-years old and showing her years, but she is so loving and enjoys the neck rubs I give her.
I then go to the house to take care of the cats and they greet me in the yard, yowling and meowing ... making conversation and they make a bee line to the garage where their food is kept. Occasionally, a yellow tom is around, but he leads a pretty mysterious life, as most tom cats do. I have to try to outsmart the opossum that raids their food dish during the night. I have hidden a few extra dishes in hopes that he bypasses them after filling himself from the main dish on the floor. So far, it has been working.
Everything was going just fine ... until it started to snow. The first snowfall didn't present much of a problem and I enjoyed walking down the pasture to the llamas and looking at the multiple animal tracks in the snow ... lots of different animals share their space on that pasture. It is getting cold now and the llamas are eating slowly as I hold their dishes over the fence. As the north wind blows against my body, I am wishing they would forget their manners and eat a little faster.
In anticipation of the snowstorm that was forecasted, I left extra hay for them in their shed and prepared some extra warm beds for the cats in the garage, and hid more food from the opossum, hoping all of them would be okay until I could get back out after the storm.
The storm escalated into a blizzard and I became concerned. I knew it would be difficult for me to get to Sue's farm, so I called Heather Derr, who lives close by. She graciously offered to give them some extra food and I felt a tremendous sense of relief. As soon as the roads are cleared, I will make my way back out there. I know they will be happy to see my car because to them, it means a full tummy.
Remember, if you own a pet, it is your responsibility to care for it. Take your dogs and cats out of this terrible cold and provide them with extra food and plenty of fresh water. Don't make them suffer outdoors. Their paws can get frostbitten in this weather. You are their only hope to see they are warm and safe.
Please don't let them down. They depend on you.
December
4, 2009
Until we meet again
A paws' for pets
Farewell my friend until we meet again ...Until we meet again
Such a simple phrase, but to a man named Tom and a cat named Teeger it is more than a simple phrase. Today a decorated military man, Tom Clerc, was buried in a military ceremony befitting the years of service he gave to our country. A man who was a dedicated family man, loyal to his many friends and neighbors, a man who gave his time and energy to organizations such as the Sesostris Shrine Club of York. And a man who had a gentle disposition and a kindness that showed up when he talked of his departed cat Samson and his buddy Teeger. My friend and my neighbor was buried today at Fort McPherson National Cemetery in Maxwell. He fought a courageous battle with cancer and as everyone agrees, he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
He left behind family, friends and neighbors and his buddy Teeger the cat. Tom only had Teeger for a little over a year, but Teeger never had it as good as when he and Tom formed a solid friendship. Back in the summer of 2008 Tom had to be hospitalized for several weeks and with his wife's recent move to the Hearthstone, Tom had asked if I would take care of his cat Samson. I got to know Tom even more than in the many years we had been neighbors as with our nightly talks when I would call him in the hospital to give him an update on his fat cat Samson. Each evening I would call Tom and Samson would get close to the phone receiver and when he would hear Tom's voice, his “motor” would kick in and he would butt the receiver as was his mode of conversation. Samson was not only a big guy, all 28 pounds, but he was also a senior cat. I had offered to bring him to my house, but as Tom put it, he said it would be like taking “grandma” to stay at a child care facility with all of the young and feisty cats here at the Cat Sanctuary.
In October of 2008 Tom made the difficult decision to end the suffering of his friend as age had taken its toll and Samson was diagnosed with kidney failure and although medical care was given immediately, the diagnosis was not good. Tom told me that he didn't want his loyal friend to suffer.
We all knew that Tom missed his Samson, especially coming home to an empty house.
His daughter Carmen was visiting from Colorado and she visited with me about her dad being so lonely. She said “I don't think he is ready to replace Samson, but he is so lonely especially without Samson. She asked if I would ask her dad as a personal favor if he could ‘foster’ a needy cat for me. I agreed and later that day visited with Tom. I told him that I had a big fat cat that detested living with the other cats in the sanctuary. He wasn't quite as big as Samson and he was a black/brown tabby where as Samson was a big yellow tabby. He said that he and Carmen would walk over and take a look. As Tom was talking and petting Teeger, Carmen winked and mouthed “it looks like the plan is working.” So when Tom agreed to foster Teeger I gathered his gear and we got him settled in his ‘temporary’ home.
It was just a couple of days until the phone rang and Tom said, “Well your plan worked, I want to adopt Teeger.”
He knew all along what we were up to. Teeger and Tom did bond that day. Teeger sat on the bench while Tom ate his meals, he was at the door to greet him each and every time Tom arrived home. And at night he slept at the foot of his bed on his own red blanket. When Tom was hospitalized and eventually entered into the Hearthstone, I once again cared for his cat. When it became clear that Tom would not be returning to his Teeger, I gathered up his belongings and brought him back home. I continued to give Tom a daily report on his friend Teeger and I promised Tom that I would care for his friend. Teeger has come home to stay.
Today Tom was laid to rest. He left many family, friends and neighbors to mourn his passing and he also left Teeger, a loyal cat who gave him comfort and companionship for the short time they were together. Tom showed his devotion to Samson and Teeger when he designated his memorials to York-Adopt-A-Pet. On behalf of Teeger and all of the cats who will benefit from his memorial we simply say thank you Tom and farewell, until we meet again.
November 27, 2009
A paws for pets
A taste of turkey
A taste of turkey
By Gail
Nordlund
Thanksgiving is the time to give thanks for the
many things we
are grateful for in our lives and we rejoice in sharing the holiday
with our loved ones.Lest we not forget our faithful canine friends, who no doubt will be begging for a little taste of the turkey that has been tantalizing their nostrils all day long.
I have an Adopt-A-Pet dog at my house that I am fostering. Her name is Cinder and she is part lab with some chow and maybe a few other breeds mixed in. She is fairly short and stocky and if she were human, she would be receiving her Social Security checks about now.
I catch Cinder looking at me sometimes with those soft, kind brown eyes and she will stare at me for a long time and I feel she is somehow speaking to me. When she does this, I answer her with "Good dog" and she seems satisfied with my response. I don't know a dog that doesn't like to hear those words spoken to them. They seem to know it is a statement of affection and they welcome it.
One day this summer, I was on the computer and a picture came up of Cinder in an e-mail that was being sent to rescue groups. She looked so incredibly sad in the photo. The e-mail explained that Cinder came from a home in Missouri where chaos was a way of life and she had been abandoned in an apartment for a week after her owners had moved out. Fortunately, she was found in time and taken to the local pound. Like many Missouri shelters, they are overcrowded and a found dog, especially an older one, goes to the kill area in three days. The person sending the e-mail was begging for someone to take this sweet, gentle dog.
I receive anywhere from five to 10 e-mails every day to take dogs in similar situations and it is just impossible to respond to them. But, this photo of Cinder staring at me on the computer screen told me I needed to rescue her. I called the contact number listed and they immediately pulled her from the shelter and took her to a foster home until arrangements could be made to get her transferred to Nebraska. It took another month for everything to fall into place, but finally the day came when Cinder was brought to York and we met in the McDonald's parking lot. When I first laid my eyes on her as she got out of the car, I knew I had done the right thing. She stared at me as she slowly walked my way and gently licked my extended hand. My heart melted.
My silent response was, "You're welcome.”
I took her home and introduced her to my dogs and they immediately took to her. Cinder is not overbearing. She is kind and gentle and seems so appreciative for everything she receives. Living in a home where there was a lot of turmoil probably caused Cinder to seek a refuge, a place of comfort away from everyone. That is probably why I have found her many times sleeping in my bathtub. I got out a large kennel for her and now she enjoys spending time in there. That is her special place. Sometimes visiting dogs that come to my house enjoy keeping her company as you can see in the picture.
Cinder needs a permanent home. She is going to be offered to the right home, at no cost, as part of Adopt-A-Pet's senior citizen dog placement program. She would be excellent with an older person. I can be reached at 362-4959 or gnordlund@neb.rr.com. Cinder hopes everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and for the record she got her taste of turkey.
November
20, 2009
California here I come
A paws' for pets
California here I come
Someone once told me if a pet has the misfortune to get lost from its family, the best place to get “lost” is in York, Neb.
If the little Yorkie puppy named Bridget that was lost and then rescued several months ago and was featured in a Paws for Pets article would attest to that statement, then Bootsie the grey and white cat would agree — York is the place to be lost and then found. I received a call from the manager of a local motel close to I-80 the fifth day of July. A woman had lost her cat Bootsie while traveling from her home in Missouri to her new home in Stockton, Calif. She was traveling with a relative and had left her 5-year-old cat in the back of their truck which was a secure and comfortable mobile home thanks to the brand new pickup shell that was purchased for Bootsie to travel across country in comfort. She had traveled well, she had her bed, litter pan, fresh food and water, and was secure and content. That is what Ruby, her 84-year-old owner thought when she locked the pickup, cracked the side windows of the topper for fresh air and told her cat Bootsie that she would see her first thing in the morning.
Bootsie had other plans. As things settled down, I can only assume Bootsie checked out the small space of the window and with super cat effort managed to open the window wider and with diligent persistence managed to rip the screen and decided to check out the surrounding area. When Ruby and her relative returned early the next morning she was devastated to see the window pushed aside and the screen with a gaping hole and NO BOOTSIE. She searched frantically for several hours but there was no sign of her beloved cat. She didn't want to leave but she was traveling with her relative and knew she had to continue her journey. She asked the manager to see if there was anyone that could look for her cat, and left her name and phone number in California. When the manager called me I had little information, I didn't know at the time the circumstances of how her cat was lost, didn't know what the cat looked like, really no information except there was a missing cat. Judy Johnson offered to set out a live trap, and we checked it several times during the day. The next morning the manager of the motel called and said there was a cat in the trap. I had been trying to reach Ruby but had never gotten an answer. Finally the next day a woman answered my call and I said is this Ruby? She said yes and I told her I was from York Adopt a Pet and had been searching for her lost cat. I said “what color is the cat that you lost?” She said she was a grey and white female with white “socks” hence the name Bootsie. I said “well I think I just trapped your cat.” She was ecstatic and said are you sure? I said well, I doubted there was more than one grey and white female cat with white socks running around the motel you were staying in. And after I e-mailed pictures of the found cat it was official. Bootsie had been rescued.
It took several weeks to make arrangements for Bootsie to make the trip to California. It was another one of those early morning flights out of Eppley Airfield in Omaha. To be exact, we were at the cargo departing gate at 4:30 a.m. on the 27th of July. Bootsie had spent the three weeks at the cat sanctuary. As we headed to Omaha on that Sunday night we once again were staying in a motel with another cat with an early flight that would take Bootsie from Omaha to Houston for a nine-hour layover and then for a connecting flight to Sacramento where Ruby along with her granddaughter were meeting the 9:30 p.m. flight. I have talked with Ruby since Bootsie arrived in California and both Ruby and Bootsie are happy to be reunited. I wasn't at the airport in Sacramento but I can only imagine the anticipation and excitement Ruby was feeling as she waited to claim her missing cat.
I heard later that the following day when Bootsie was on the “loose” she visited the Marble Museum via an unopened back door. A traveling customer considered taking Bootsie with her but at the last minute decided that it would be too far to travel home to Utah with an unfamiliar cat. But as you can see with Bootsie's attached picture she was an excellent traveler, perched up on the dash of our van as we traveled into Omaha, she enjoyed the scenery and entertained others traveling on the interstate who were surprised to see a cat sitting on our dash. It was lucky for Ruby the customer didn't take Bootsie home to Utah, she would never have known her fate and of course would not have her beloved Bootsie with her today. It was another happy ending for a inquisitive and slightly naughty cat and an 84-year-old woman traveling to her new retirement home in California.
November 16, 2009
A paws for pets
Why all the fuss?
Why all the fuss?
By Gail
Nordlund
It is a beautiful Nebraska fall day, so imagine
yourself walking
your dog, who is blind, only to discover that the leash you were
holding suddenly only had the collar attached and the dog was nowhere
to be seen.This happened last week to Alice Tompkins. She was just beginning a new routine of taking her 13-year-old blind rat terrier, Niki, for walks. She had a new retractable lead and began her walk near her home amidst the splendor of falling leaves on a near perfect day. She soon realized her lead felt light and when she looked back she discovered that Niki was gone and she was holding onto nothing but the collar. She began scanning the neighborhood and could not see her anywhere and that is when she saw the storm drain in the street. She was certain that Niki must have fallen into it and was frantic. She called out to her neighbor to call the police department. She got no response from Niki as she called to her and that frightened her even more. She looked up to see a crew of city street employees working nearby and waved them over to help. The four men willingly came to her aid.
They had to remove a manhole cover on the sidewalk to gain access to the storm drain below.
One of the men crawled down the manhole and as an anxious Alice waited, he soon surfaced with little Niki in his arms. In Alice's own words, "At that point, I just lost it. I was so worried that she would not be okay." But Niki was fine and a little indignant as if to say, "Why all the fuss?" She was totally unfazed with all the attention surrounding her.
I got to meet Niki and she is a precious little thing. She sniffed me closely and then decided I was OK and let me hold her. I learned she has been blind for seven years. She lost her eyesight as a result of glaucoma and her eyes were removed and sewn shut. She obeys by verbal commands now. She knows the perimeter of her yard and stays within it. When returning to the house, she is given the command "Steps - up the steps" and she goes up and then "door open" and she enters the house. She has always slept in her kennel until several months ago when she started howling in the middle of the night. Alice finally brought her in bed with her and that is what she wanted, so the kennel is now put away.
One night, Niki started barking at the living room window and her hair stood on end. Alice looked in time to see two figures in the dark attempting to steal her lawn ornaments. Niki scared them off. "She’s a good little watch dog," said Alice. "Her hearing is perfect."
Niki's senses are good, too. One day, her water dish was empty and she crawled up on the chair and gently drank from a glass of water that Alice had set on the end table. Losing her sight has not kept Niki from living a good life. Alice said that a lot of people would have put their dog down for that reason, but there is no need to if you take some extra precautions.
They learn to live with it and do just fine.
Alice said she cannot say enough about the city workers and what they did for her. "They were really nice. I thank them for their service, going above and beyond their duty and for being so kind and helpful. It meant a lot to me. Niki is my family."
I'm happy too, that the story had a happy ending and I hope the two of you are already back out walking!
November
6, 2009
‘Hope’ for all orphaned and abandoned kittens
A paws' for pets
‘Hope’ for all orphaned and abandoned kittens
I can never remember a time when I didn't have a
cat. I can never
remember a time when I haven't rescued or picked up “stray
cats.”But in the last 10 to 12 years I have picked up, rescued and cared for hundreds and hundreds of stray cats. I once told a friend that I wished I could be “normal” and not instinctively watch roadside ditches as the car races along, not see a cat dashing into an alley or a small cat alone in a field. You instinctively know the ones that are “stray,” and you instinctively know that you must rescue them. Fortunately or unfortunately, I now have dozens of people who have a place to bring the “stray” cats that they find in alleys, ditches and fields. Not everyone is able or willing to take on the responsibility of so many cats. I am not sure that I am either, but rescue work takes on a life of its own.
Several weeks ago I received a call: A lady had found some kittens in her alley. Could I take them she asked? I said “I am sorry but we are at capacity.” I should have stopped right there but I couldn't resist asking how many kittens there were. I know my voice rose an octave higher when I said HOW MANY? She repeated ... there are 10 of them! I said FROM THE SAME LITTER? She replied, yes I think so, they are all the same color and they are all exactly the same size. No mother has been spotted in a day and a half much less two mothers. Still I hesitated. But her next sentence folded my resolve.
She said “I don't know what to do, I feel so sorry for them, they are all huddled together in a little ball in my alley.” She had me on the single word “huddled.” Immediately I could picture these 10 baby orphans huddled in a tight ball trying to keep warm. It was drizzling rain and was supposed to get colder in the next couple of days.
Within a few minutes she was pulled into my driveway, and sure enough there were 10 baby kittens, probably not more than 6 weeks old huddled together in a card board box. All near the same color, all the same size and all with serious upper respiratory infection and infected conjunctivas eyes. My heart sank, they were in serious trouble. The lady left a sizable donation to care for the kittens and after seeing her off, I gathered all 10, settled them in a kennel with an over-sized heating pad. Now is when reality always sets in. I know that most likely these little tiny babies will not survive. They are too small, too ill and without their mother, it will be a miracle if I can maintain their failing immune systems. I have people who have been critical of my efforts with the smallest of the small ill kittens , and the oldest and most frail of the senior cats. It only seems natural to me that these are the “strays” that need the most care, compassion and even though the outcome for these cats and kittens is not always successful, I know they are in an environment that is warm, that food and formula are available, and most important they are not alone, they are not huddled together in a cold wet alley. Sadly to say as of today, nine of these little babies have died. One continues to struggle against odds that hopefully I can help him overcome. It is not easy, over the years I have held too many little kittens as they struggle to survive over odds that are too large for them to overcome. But the alternative to rescuing these littlest of little kittens is to turn a blind eye to their suffering and fate. I cannot always change the outcome, but I can change the comfort level that these little babies receive. I know they are warm, they have food in their tummies, medicine to relieve their pain and most important they are not alone. It is hard for some people to understand that even with the loss of these little guys, the fact that I could make a difference in their short lives makes it all worthwhile.
Little Hope is yet another kitten, found in a puddle of water drenched and with hypothermia setting in. Her little eyes were set, her breathing was shallow and my first thought when the man handed her to me in a wet towel at 9 at night, was “she won't make it.” That was seven days ago. Today she is bright eyed and running wild in my bathroom. Within a few hours, she was able to lift her head and by morning she was up and walking. She is a survivor, a little grey and white ball of fluff with bright black eyes, energy and a healthy appetite. Hopefully soon she will be adopted into a forever home and even though we will never know how she came to be submerged in a pool of water on a dark and cold street, we know she was discovered, and thanks to the citizen who couldn't leave this little kitten alon
October 30, 2009
A paws for pets
It only takes one call
It only takes one call
By Gail
Nordlund
Sometimes it only takes one call to get a
rescue effort in
motion. On Oct. 20, I received that call from Jim Jacobson, in
McCool,
reporting the sighting of a German Shepherd, with a collar, that
appeared to be lost. To date, I had not received any calls of anyone
losing such a dog, but that was soon to change. Two days later, a young
man named Justin Rose, called reporting their 2-year-old Shepherd,
Boris, had run off a month ago. The family had just moved from Michigan
to Beaver Crossing in June and naturally the area was strange to them
and the dog. He had put up posters in the area and was getting some
information from people that there were numerous sightings of Boris,
but they changed every day as to his location. Justin was trying to
work full-time, go to school at night and was spending every spare
moment looking for his dog. I told him about the sighting in McCool and
he said the dog had also been seen recently in Fairmont. I immediately
called the radio station and put an ad in the York paper to get the
word out.Justin said Boris is a house dog and that he has no knowledge of the outdoors and with the cold weather approaching, he was extremely worried for him. So was I. The calls were coming in and now it appeared that the dog was spending more time in the Fairmont area, so I made the drive myself, hoping we would somehow cross paths. A shot in the dark, I'm afraid. I asked some of the callers to put food out for him, hoping we could get him to stay in one area. One family offered to leave the door to their Quonset open at night for shelter.
Eventually, Boris did find a comfort zone, so to speak. He started frequenting the acreage of Butch and Elizabeth Long on the south side of town, sneaking in at night to eat some cat food. Justin was notified, but the dog was never there when he came. So, he decided to leave his shirt tied to a post and then his 2-year-old-son's pajamas tied in another area to leave their scent for Boris, hoping that would help to cease his wandering of the country roads.
On Oct. 26, I received a call from Elizabeth and from the excitement in her voice, I knew something good had happened. She said when she got up and opened the shades that morning, there stood Boris in the yard. He had pulled loose Justin's shirt from the post and carried it to where the little boy's pajamas were placed. Boris now had some hope. Her son, Elliot, was about to take out some food for him. I told her if Elliot could get close enough to snap a leash on him, it would be all over. He would submit.
In the meantime, a fellow dog rescuer from Columbus, Gayle Opplinger, had offered to bring over her large, homemade trap, but as she arrived in York, Elizabeth called and said the dog had been caught ! He was safe — finally!
We just had to meet him, so Gayle, sister Judi and I jumped in the car and headed for Fairmont. Once arriving and seeing that sweet dog, none of us could refrain from giving him a multitude of hugs and kisses and he seemed happy to get them. He was very thin and full of burrs and so very tired.
I didn't get to see the reunion of Justin and Boris, but I did get a joyful first hand report from Justin. He said that when he drove up to the house and got out of his truck, that Boris threw his head up high and started howling and wouldn't quit. It had been almost five weeks and many cold, lonely nights since he had seen his master and he was letting the world know just how happy he was! Justin said Boris had lost 30 pounds. He couldn't have gone much longer. Once home, a second reunion took place with Justin's wife and their young son.
It is stories like this that make dog rescue so rewarding. It only took one call to make it happen. Thank you to everyone that took the time to call and to the Longs for securing Boris and to Justin, for never giving up.
October
23, 2009
A paws' for pets
This past August my niece and her friend Henry spent a
week
visiting Bob, me and her grandmother Theo White. She is the daughter of
my brother and wife, Johnny and Alice of Bakersfield, Calif. Mandy
lives and works in New York City as a speech pathologist working with
autistic children. Of COURSE she is an animal lover, both dogs and cats.I had been called to downtown York the by police earlier on the day that Mandy and Henry arrived. A long haired silky black cat had been found on Lincoln Avenue, and had tried to get into a woman's car. She was waiting when I arrived with kennel in hand. I didn't need the kennel, Nala was one of the friendliest cats I had rescued in quite some time. She rode to the vet on my lap and was content to wait until she could be tested and vaccinated. Dogs both large and small entered the clinic and it certainly didn't phase Nala. She had a deep throated purr and was doing the kneading thing with her paws. Mandy was instantly taken with Nala, and although nothing was mentioned until the day before they left for New York, I knew she was considering taking her home with her. After much discussion Nala once again went to the vet, this time for a health check and a rabies vaccination. The airline was called, a ticket was purchased, a carrier was secured complete with rollers for easy transportation as Mandy had to change planes in Chicago. On the day she left, Nala was secured in her carrier complete with health records and Nala's ticket. She would be flying in the cabin with Mandy, tucked under her seat.
When Mandy wrote after arriving in New York she said “NO ONE asked to see Nala's health records or asked to see her rabies certificate either at the airport or on the flight. Actually, no one even asked to see the receipt for her plane fare. She said that as it was, no one seemed to know there was a cat in the “bag.” With the security being tight in the airports, it was surprising that no one even questioned or suspected that she was transporting a cat. Of course Nala was a perfect passenger and slept most of the way.
Updates on Nala have been frequent and all good. She has adjusted to Mandy's two other shelter adopted cats, Ursula and Chiquita. And Dot the adopted shelter dog. I told Mandy it was going to be a new house rule that anyone who visits the Roth household goes home with a cat. Nala has been to the vet, she has been spayed and her favorite hobby is sitting in the window seat enjoying being a New Yorker. I only wish that every cat adopted from the cat sanctuary could have the good fortune to have a responsible and loving home that Nala has secured. She was a street cat in York, Nebraska and ended up being a pampered New York city cat. She not only has a wonderful life living with Mandy but when Mandy is out of town, she will have a dog/cat sitter living in the apartment with her. She is one of the lucky ones, taken off the streets and ending up a pampered pet.
This late summer and early fall has been unbelievable for homeless cats and kittens. Just when I think it will slow down the calls start coming. A cat found in a tree, a kitten found in a gutter. Mother cat and kittens found under a trailer house. Kittens left on a country road. There was even a girl who tossed a box with 4 cats taped in a cardboard box onto the veterinarian clinic counter and ran out the door saying she didn't care what happened to them, they could be drowned in a creek for all she cared. It is very frustrating to adopt two cats and have four more found abandoned in the same day. But as one of the volunteers said recently, we must do what we have to do and not worry about tomorrow. So for every cat that we rescue and place in a forever home we know that is one less cat that will be living on the street. And even though we are overworked and overcrowded we will do what we must do and not worry about tomorrow. And if we need reassurance that we are doing the right thing, we only need to take a look at the picture of Nala and Mandy and we know that we did the right thing for Nala and Mandy.
October
9, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Beau the Gentle Giant
Beau the Gentle Giant
I would like to share another story with you that Charleen Kimberly recently sent me. Charleen and her late husband Greg have been long time volunteers for York Adopt a Pet. This is her story about a cat named Beau.
In 2001, a large, but very thin cat was found in a garage here in York. The woman that found him called LaMoine Roth, who took him to the Cat Sanctuary. Blue Eyes, as he was known then, due to his large blue eyes, quickly settled in as the greeter, meeting people at the gate, following them around the sanctuary.
LaMoine had taken some time off and I was caring for the cats while she was gone. When I went to the Sanctuary on a Saturday morning, I noticed that Blue Eyes wasn’t waiting for me. I looked around and finally found him. He was hiding, very lethargic — not his usual self, so I took him to Gloysteins. The staff from Gloysteins called Gail Nordlund later that day to say that Blue Eyes was gravely ill, and needed further direction for his care. Gail told them to treat him for now and let LaMoine make the final decision when she returned in two days. When LaMoine returned, he was already on his way to making a complete recovery!
Shortly after that, Mollie, the cat that Greg and I had adopted 12 years earlier, suddenly died. We were heartbroken, but decided right away to adopt another cat. We chose Blue Eyes and changed his name to Beau. We quickly realized that Beau wasn’t just a cat — he was part human!
I believe that Beau is a Maine Coon, with the nickname “Gentle Giant.” That fits him perfectly. He loves to butt his forehead into mine and rub noses.
We often had medical emergencies at home due to Greg’s battle with kidney failure. During these times, Beau would sit next to Greg, with his paw stretched out to touch him, comforting him the only way he could. I came home one day to find Greg unresponsive on the floor with Beau laying on his chest. Beau knew that something was wrong and he was taking care of him.
Beau is very laid back and easy going, but he is definitely the big brother to the younger cats in our house. He will correct them if it is needed, swatting at them with his paw and staring them down with those piercing blue eyes.
After Greg’s death in March of this year, Beau began sleeping on his pillows, where he still sleeps to this day. If I wake up during the night, he reaches out with that large paw to touch me as if to say “It’s okay — I’m here.” He is very quick to sense grief. If I have difficulty sleeping, I can usually fall asleep in the recliner. Beau lies on my chest, with his paws around my neck. It’s my turn to be comforted.
Beau was older when he was found — probably 6 or 7 years old. Where did he come from? Had he lived in a house with a family, who decided that they didn’t want him anymore? Was he a stray cat — forced to live on the streets and find food and shelter where ever he could? As friendly as he is, I’m inclined to believe that he lived with people that cared for him. But how did he end up in the garage that day? The only one that knows is Beau.
I guess it doesn’t really matter anymore. Beau has found his forever home. I will take care of him and love him until it is time for him to cross the Rainbow Bridge.
I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to so many people — LaMoine and Bob Roth, Gail and Judi Nordlund, Charlie and Deb Sanders, Kim and Tom Hart and the rest of the board and volunteers of York Adopt A Pet. Our new building is a reality and we couldn’t have gotten this far without all these kind caring people.
Cats are a source of company, but they also are a source of comfort. It is a documented fact that people who own cats have lower blood pressure, and nothing is more relaxing than having a cat sitting on your lap with their soft purr and kneading paws. Beau was fortunate that Charleen adopted him, but he has returned much more. Thank you Charleen for sharing this special story and for your dedication and help for so many years. I have said often that the cat sanctuary would not exist if not for the faithful volunteers who have been volunteering day after day, month after month and year after year.
So to Crystal, Judy, Deb, Shar, Kathy, Janelle, Marilyn, Charleen, Diane, Shar, Lora, Ryan, Malaurie, Riley, Colleen, Quinn and Jen — THANK YOU from not only me, but from each and every cat and kitten that has crossed the threshold of the Cat Sanctuary. I have seen first hand the dedication and compassion from these volunteers. Without you the cats and the kittens would not have the opportunity to find their “forever home.”
October 2, 2009
A paws for pets
Cruelty to animals is wrong...thank goodness for those with patience
Cruelty to animals is wrong...thank goodness for those with patience
By Gail
Nordlund
Once again, the pit of humanity has
raised its
ugly head by the
abandonment of a young dog northwest of York. There are no farm homes
on that lonely stretch of road, just a small open area surrounded by
corn fields. It was a place where someone could do their dirty work and
not be seen. They were obviously more concerned about themselves than
for the frightened pup they discarded before driving away.Thank goodness for the alertness of Fred and Lori Ehlers who first spotted the little girl on their way home. They stopped and tried to catch her, but she was too terrified to come to them and retreated into the corn field. Compassion took over and they went back later with food and water which she greedily consumed, but she kept her distance. When she was still there the next day, Lori called Adopt-a-Pet seeking advice. I had to go on another call, so sister Judi went out alone. She found the area where the food was left, but the dog was nowhere to be seen. As soon as I returned, the two of us went back out there and set up a live trap. Next, all we could do was go home and wait.
Later that day, I was in Kearney watching my grandson run in a cross country meet and I received a phone call from Judi. I could tell by her voice that something good had happened.
"I caught her !" she blurted out.
She explained how she went back to check the trap and there she was, lying right beside it ... smart little pup I thought. She did not run away and Judi sat down and talked to her, but when she tried to touch her, she ran into the corn. Not one to give up, Judi followed her in and the two of them sat a few feet apart, amongst the tall corn, staring at each other while Judi slowly inched toward her, talking softly. As she got closer, she was able to reach out and touch her and began petting her head and eventually was able to snap a leash on the collar, pick her up and carrying her to the truck. This took a half hour of true patience on Judi's part. Once inside the vehicle, it was over. The pup sensed that everything was okay. She was taken immediately to the vet because her face and mouth were full of stickers — poor little thing, how uncomfortable that had to be for her. She had to be sedated to remove them all.
It was obvious to our kennel manager, Kim Hart, that this dog is a littermate to four pups that we had earlier this summer. It was not one of the four that we had, but had to be one of the five that the owner had given away before we were able to get them. Some people will take a giveaway dog without giving a thought to the responsibility of having a pet. And other people will let their dogs breed over and over, not caring where the pups end up.
And, often, this is how it turns out.
Not only is abandoning a pet against the law, it is the most cruel thing you can do to an animal. Please, call us for help. Never, ever, abandon one.
They do not stand a chance in the country and their death will be slow and miserable.
This one, now named Darla, is one of the lucky ones, thanks to the Ehlers and to Judi, for her patience in catching her. Animals need angels like this looking out for them.
For help, call Kim at 710-2788 or Gail at 362-4959.
September
25, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
David and Johnathan’s missions of mercy
David and Johnathan’s missions of mercy
I would like to share a story that was
sent to
me about a man who
rescued a cat that had been dumped in a countryside ditch. David
Williams is the son of former York residents Barbara Williams and the
late John Williams and most will remember that his grandparents were
the late Russ and Florence Williams.This is his story ...
“I have always had an affinity for all living things and my family have always had cats and dogs. One Christmas my mother gave me a sign that said Strays Welcome. How true that has been as I live in the country where there are plenty of strays.
“A few months ago, two of my friends were biking out to see me and saw a cat lying in a ditch. Of course they knew where to go as I had already rescued several other cats. He was matted so badly, one ear was severed and he was so weak he couldn't raise his head. I offered him some food and water and when he began to eat I knew he was a survivor and wanted to live. I brought him into my house and slept with him through the night. In the morning I took him to my vet and she did everything she could for him although she cautioned me that he was in very bad shape and she didn't think that he would survive. But I knew he was a survivor and survive he did. Precious (the name I gave the cat) resembled someone from a concentration camp. He was thin and very frail.
“The next morning I brought Precious home and within one week he had gained two pounds. I also discovered he was blind. Nothing could be done to remedy this. With lots of care and love, Precious is looking much better. The hair that was not shaved off to remove the mats and burrs is apricot and his paws and beard are white. Precious is thriving today and learning to live with my other cats. I keep Precious in my room at night so he knows he will be safe. Otherwise he gets around the house very well. He is becoming a very pretty cat in spite of being abandoned, blind and missing an ear. It is amazing.”
It is amazing ... I will never understand the mentality of dumping a cat in the country. Contrary to what they believe it is totally false that a cat can survive in the wild. Contrary to what people believe cats cannot live totally off rodents. They instantly become prey to coyotes, fox, badgers and raccoons to name just a few. Eating rodents, the cats are certain to have tape worms which can be fatal to cats left untreated. They have fleas, ear mites and upper respiratory diseases that run rampant when a cat is living off the land. I can not begin to count the number of cats that come in from the country that have abscesses, missing limbs, infections and other types of injuries.
I had one individual tell me that they dumped a litter of kittens near an abandoned barn “knowing” that the kittens would live happily ever after in a soft pile of straw with plenty of mice to meet their diet needs.
Are they kidding? I can guarantee you that if they were not picked up and brought to a shelter or someone found them in time and took them in, those kittens probably didn't live more than five to seven days. Ask anyone who has volunteered in an animal shelter what they have seen with cats or kittens that have been rescued and brought into the shelter. It is not a storybook ending for many. As long as there are irresponsible people and country roads, things will continue as they are. But as long as there are places like the York Adopt a Pet Cat Sanctuary, and the dedicated volunteers who try to make a difference, we will continue to give shelter to the abandoned cats and kittens. We will try to stop the pain and suffering of the smallest of God's creatures. Unfortunately for every cat or kitten rescued, there are many more who are not as lucky.
Three little siblings were some of the lucky ones. Or maybe it was fate when a homeless man named Johnathan hitchhiking along Highway 34 heard a noise from a card board box in the ditch. Inside he found three black and white little kittens. He caught a ride into York and dropped them off at the YAAP building. I think he knew what it was like to be homeless and to know that taped into a card board box these three little guys would not stand much of a chance. Johnathan was gone by the time I arrived at the YAAP building and never had the chance to thank him for doing “the right thing.” It is ironic to think that the person who “dumped” these three helpless little kittens in a ditch, did so with the use of their vehicle and after abandoning these kittens, they returned to their “home.” This man had neither home nor vehicle, yet he had more compassion than the one with so many more worldly possessions. It is not necessarily who you are, but more important “what you are.”
So to both David and Johnathan, I thank you for doing the right thing.
September 18, 2009
A paws for pets
Settling In
Settling In
By Gail
Nordlund
Two weeks ago, I wrote about Sully, the
senior
cocker spaniel
that needed a home. His owner had died and Sully was going to be
euthanized by relatives until his groomer came to his rescue.One of our volunteers, Sue Murphy, took the dog out of the kindness of her heart, to buy him some time until a permanent home could be found. I was amazed at the response I received. Many people were willing to give Sully that chance, knowing well that he is in the fourth quarter of his life. As you can see by the picture, he is happily settling in at the home of Larry and Betty Lind. It has been awhile since they have had a dog after they lost theirs, but they still have the pet door and their backyard is well designed for a dog. When I took him over to meet the Linds, he snooped around and immediately shot through the pet door as though he had lived there all his life. He did a complete search of the house and then came back outside when he was finished, looking at us, as if to say, "This will work. Get my things." He loves his walks, so they are making sure he is enjoying one or two every day.
It is not hard to see that Sully is very content. He seems to be happy being the only dog, for that is what he was used to in his former home. Larry has discovered that Sully is hard of hearing, and that doesn't surprise me. He is almost 11 and things like that happen with age. I feel good that Sully is in his forever home. Judging from the number of calls I received, I think this is something that I would like to pursue ... starting a program to place housebroken older dogs, without charging an adoption fee. We get them in quite frequently and struggle to place them. We eventually do, but it just takes longer. Every day I get pictures sent to me through the Nebraska Rescue Site showing dogs that need homes and many of them are seniors. It is so sad to see them having to end their life in a shelter that will eventually euthanize them ... simply because they are older.
One picture came across my computer screen sometime in July, showing a black lab mix that had been left in an apartment when the owners moved out and she was not discovered for over a week. The look on her face haunted me ... her eyes reflected a kind soul. She was going to be euthanized, so I made contact with the person holding her in Missouri. I asked them not to put her down and to let me see if I could arrange transportation to get her to Nebraska. Several attempts fell through and then late in August, I got a call that Cinder had a ride to Omaha. An acquaintance in Omaha that does animal rescue met them and transported her to York for me.
The minute I saw her, I knew I had done the right thing ... acting on instinct to save this dog. She was not as big as I imagined, but her sweet face was the same. I brought her home and she has been a perfect lady in my house. She has such good manners and her eyes did not lie. She is as kind as they come. To look at her now and think she would have been euthanized makes me want to cry. I will find a home for Cinder the same way I did for Sully, and I will make sure it is going to be someone that will appreciate what she has to offer ... unconditional love.
On another note, I wrote earlier about getting a dog park in the city of York, where dogs could run off-leash. I received a number of responses to it, and all were positive. I have looked at many possibilities where one could be located, and for some reason, I keep going back to the parking lot of the old swim pool. It already has trees, would drain easily and there is a water source nearby. It really is not used for anything and it seems a shame to have it sitting there when it could be put to good use. Hopefully, in the near future, a dog park can become a reality.
If anyone out there is interested in adopting an older dog, feel free to contact me, and we will see if we can find one for you that would work. It would be a joy for me to help you find a nice dog and a double joy to find the dog a forever home.
August
28, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Herbie says THANK YOU
Herbie says THANK YOU
In my last column I wrote about Herbie
the
beautiful and
good-natured cat that had decayed teeth that must have been very
painful for him. The response to a request to help finance the
veterinary bill for his surgery to remove all of his teeth was simply
amazing. When Friday morning's edition of the Paws for Pets article
came out, Rex Rasmussen called me before 7:30 and said he had read the
article and wanted to pay for Herbie's bill. I was so surprised that an
individual would offer to pay for the entire bill, but I guess knowing
Rex I shouldn't be surprised. His daughter, Elizabeth, had adopted
Louie several years ago from the Cat Sanctuary and has made himself a
very important part of their entire family. Talking to Rex he said
Louie, a beautiful long haired tuxedo black and white cat, now sports a
‘lion’ haircut. Louie originally had been trapped on
Nebraska Center
for Women grounds west of York. He was such a lovable good-natured cat
that it was easy to see how he was adopted into a family who
appreciates a class act cat and has now become the center attraction
for the entire Rasmussen family.The phone rang several more times during the day with more requests to help with Herbie's expenses. I received donations in the mail from not only York, but from within the county. When I told people that his bill had been paid in full, they still wanted to donate, so I decided that I would open a Herbie Fund and would ear mark all money received to help the next cat with dental problems who arrived at the cat sanctuary. We received many, many donations and it was so rewarding to know there are people who would open their hearts and billfolds to help a cat they never met, but knew they could make a difference in his life.
This is such a difficult time for shelters all over the nation, York Adopt a Pet is no exception. With the economy and the simple fact that people do not neuter their pets, especially with the cat population, there has been an explosion of kittens. The Cat Sanctuary is at full capacity and there looks like no end in sight. Unfortunately there are many more adult cats showing up on citizens doorsteps in the City of York as well as in the rural areas of the county. These cats and kittens do not have a voice. They are taken into the country in cardboard boxes and tossed in the ditches, they are found along the roadsides, and for some they are dropped off in driveways leading to farm yards. I can't fathom what goes through a person's mind when they take an animal into the country, open the car door and toss them out. We get calls daily and I literally mean daily from people throughout the county saying someone dumped a mama cat and babies, or I just had a declawed cat show up at my back door trying to get into the house, can we bring them to you? In the last week alone we have had five declawed adult cats that have been found by citizens of York as well as rural York County. These are cats that have no way to defend themselves from predators and obviously have been family pets.
We have loyal volunteers at the cat sanctuary that are working longer hours and still we are having a difficult time keeping up. Money and space is always an issue. We are working as hard as possible to find 'forever' homes for these cats and kittens, and it is very rewarding to work with people like Rex and all who donated to Herbie's Fund. Herbie doesn't have the ability to thank you, but as his caretakers we thank you on his behalf. He is pain free, eating well and if anything he is more endearing and affectionate than before his surgery.
For every cat that is turned in at the sanctuary there are literally dozens of others left to starve or suffer with disease and illness, such as Herbie. We are sometimes overwhelmed but we will not be deterred. Every day that we have a successful adoption overshadows the constant calls to rescue more cats and kittens. As you are reading this, will you consider being a foster home for a cat or kitten? Would you consider being a volunteer at our sanctuary? The needs are great, but the rewards are greater. You only have to look at Herbie's picture to know that cats like him make all of the work and stress worthwhile. So on Herbie's behalf, we all say THANK YOU for your donations, thank you for your support and if you want to become a part of our effort to make a difference in the cats and kittens of York County, please call me at 362-4908 and become a foster home or a volunteer.
September 4, 2009
A paws for pets
The forgotten one's
The forgotten one's
By Gail
Nordlund
There are dogs sitting in shelters all
over the
country, looking back at you with those soft, wise eyes. They aren't jumping and barking at you as if to say "Pick me! Pick me !" like the majority are. Their eyes simply follow you as you briefly glance at them and move onto the next kennel. They know...they seem to know that you are not here to see them, so they go back and lay down until the next person comes to their kennel door and they politely get up and greet them and start the process all over again. Is it the grey on their muzzle...the cloudy eyes..the stiffness in their joints as they get up that makes people turn away from them and walk on? This is the plight of the senior dog. They are given up every day to shelters for various reasons.
Some are valid reasons, but some border on the ridiculous. The kids have left home so they don't want the dog anymore. They got a new puppy, so the older dog must go. They just put in new carpet. They would like to travel more. The list goes on and on. I have heard every reason under the sun. And, sadly, in many cases, the owner has died or has gone into a nursing home. No matter what the reason, they are all devastating to the dog.
One of our volunteers at York Adopt a Pet, Sue Murphy, rescued such a dog and was caring for it at her home until her mother became ill out of state, so now I have him at my home until Sue returns.
In his earlier days, he was known as AKC Knight's Sultan of Hastings, but now affectionately answers to Sully. He is a beautiful cocker spaniel, who must have turned some heads in his day with his striking good looks. But, now he is ten years of age, and his prospects for adoption are slim. He joins the ranks of thousands of other senior dogs being passed over for a younger dog.
Every day on our rescue web site are pictures posted from rescue groups begging us to take dogs on death row of high kill shelters in their area. Many of them are older dogs and looking at their pictures can nearly ruin your day.
You may think you don't want to get a dog that you will only have for a year or two. But, actually, there is a lot of satisfaction and joy in knowing you made the last few years of a dog's life comfortable and happy. I have taken in many older dogs and I can assure you, they have given me more than what I gave them.
Sully needs to find a permanent home. He is actually a pretty active dog. He runs around the yard chasing the squirrels up the trees and is the first one in line for his nightly treat. He minds his manners in the house and probably takes more naps than a younger dog. But he is perfectly housetrained and would be a wonderful companion for an older person. He is no longer grieving for his owner that died of cancer. His master's relatives were going to have him euthanized after the funeral and it was his dog groomer that came to this rescue and sent out a plea for someone to save him. Sue answered that call.
I am helping Sue to find the right home for Sully. We would prefer an older couple or person that preferably has a fenced in yard. He is not a lot of work, but would need occasional grooming. There would be no adoption fee for him if I can find the right home. A home that I know would treat him with the love he had been accustomed to receiving his entire life, until his owner sadly left him. He didn't ask for this, but since it has happened, we are trying to do what is right for Sully.
If you are interested in looking at him, you can contact me at 362-4959 or gnordlund@neb.rr.com.
August
28, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Can you help me?
Can you help a cat named Herbie?Can you help me?
He needed to have his
teeth pulled, ALL of them. His mouth was full of rotting teeth, his
gums were inflamed. For those of us who have had an infected tooth, we
know the pain of a toothache. The medical needs of the cats are never
ending. Most are simple, there are the Felv testing, vaccinations,
spaying and neutering, doctoring wounds, both big and small, fecal
samples, worming and flea medications, the list goes on. We have had
cats with infected eyes who have to have to have them removed.
Unfortunately the teeth are something that is expensive and unless it
is severe we do not do cleaning and extractions, but sometimes it is a
necessity. Sometimes it is a decision like Herbie, do we help him or do
we let me continue to suffer with mouth pain. I chose to help him and I
am asking on behalf of Herbie for donations to help with his recent
extractions.Every once in awhile I get a cat in that really touches me, most generally it is because they have this accepting personality. As you can see by the attached picture of Herbie and his friend, John Boy, he makes friends easily. Cats like Herbie have endured so much, and they have not let life dictate how they react to humans. It is humans that have not treated them kindly, it is humans that have abandoned them, and through it all, they are mellow and surprisingly have a quality that is soothing and endearing. Such is a cat named Herbie. He came to us from a town within our county. He and seven other cats had been left behind in a motor home. When the owner left, these eight cats were left in deplorable conditions. From the moment that I picked up Herbie, he touched me as being so gentle and immediately was ready to accept the next chapter in his cat life. He was patient.
We tested him for leukemia, and when he tested negative then he was vaccinated, neutered and he settled into the sanctuary very quickly. I first noticed that he would sit patiently and wait until all of the other cats pushed and shoved to get at the food bowl, or when treats were given, he never wavered in his patience by sitting quietly and if any of the treats were left he would savor each little morsel. He wasn't afraid or timid, he was simply patient.
I watched him as months went by. Every new cat that came in he made a point of touching noses as if it was his way of welcoming the cat to the sanctuary. The cats that were timid, the cats that were aggressive, the playful cats and the snarly cats all were at ease when Herbie was there. Herbie reminded me of a large lion with his pride family. He has the unique way of leaning into a cat. I know you have seen pictures of lions standing side by side actually leaning into one another. Well this is exactly what Herbie does. You can look out into my back yard at any given time and you will see Herbie slowly walk up to a cat and stand shoulder to shoulder leaning into the other cat. He has a deep throated purr and you only have to say “Herbie” and it automatically kicks into gear.
I knew Herbie's teeth were not clean when he first came to the Sanctuary and I kept thinking that I would take him to the vet and get them cleaned and have him checked for problem teeth. Herbie was once again patient, he ate his food so slowly and I realized that he must have been in pain. I checked his mouth again this week and was appalled at how much more they had deteriorated in the months that he had been at the Sanctuary. I immediately called the vet and made an appointment. It was decided that they were bad enough that they all needed to be pulled.
He will now be on a diet of soft food which for a cat would be a good thing, if you give a cat the choice between soft and hard; I guarantee you they will go soft 100 percent of the time. Herbie has been patient once again, just quietly enduring what must have been a very painful mouth. Can you please help Herbie? Any donation will go to pay his vet bill and would be greatly appreciated.
On behalf of Herbie he says THANK YOU and he will see you all at the 2009 Yorkfest Parade. He is our grand cat marshal of York Adopt a Pet. See you there.
August
14, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
A King Size CatKnown as Mr. Stinker
A King Size CatKnown as Mr. Stinker
Several weeks ago I was on a rescue mission to pick up an abandoned injured cat in the country near Bradshaw. I had “Lester” the cat secured in a carrier and was on my way back to York when I saw JoAnn Williams mowing her lawn. I stopped to visit with her briefly, she and her husband Stan have been such wonderful supporters of York Adopt a Pet including their donation of our Adopt a Pet Patrol bright red van that you probably have seen on the streets of York and neighboring towns. They are not only supporters of the York Adopt a Pet, but have their own small rescue going with their dogs, cats, birds, and several ferrets.
JoAnn introduced me to their dogs, and when her daughter Kim came in the kitchen carrying Mr. Smelly (her pet name for him) I couldn't believe the size of this cat. He is simply huge. Standing next to their Pekingese, LeLo; Mr. Smelly dwarfed this full sized Pekingese. I am certain that he is at least part Main Coon, but even with that he is the largest cat I have ever seen. And I have seen a LOT of cats.
I once saw a large cat posted on an e-mail sent by a friend. I thought to myself, the photo had to be enhanced to make the cat look so large, but trust me, Mr. Smelly doesn't have to have his photo enhanced, he is simply a XXX large cat.
I was surprised when they said when they found him, he was this tiny little kitten and he just grew bigger and bigger. I agree with Kim, whoever abandoned this kitten didn't realize what a gorgeous cat he would grow into. I asked Kim to share her rescue of this tiny abandoned kitten that grew into this big beautiful cat. It is stories like these that again show that everyone and anyone can make a difference in an animals life.
It was a sunny day in the late summer of 2004 when my dad decided to take my brother Chris and I down to Oak to go wading in the Little Blue River and look for fossils on the river’s sandbars. Before we went down to the river, we were going to stop by my dad’s cousin Merlin’s house to say hello since we were in the area. Merlin had a bunch of used cars on his property that he would buy, repair, and sell, and it was stuck under one of these cars that we found ‘Stinker.”
Just a little kitten back then, Stinker had been abandoned somewhere in the countryside near Merlin’s house and Merlin, being an animal lover, attempted to catch the kitten and take him home.
It seems that on that day, Stinker had decided to crawl up into one car’s suspension. As my dad pulled into Merlin’s driveway, we saw Merlin spraying water from a hose underneath the car, and we all wondered what he was doing. We went over to say hello, and Merlin explained to us that there was a little kitten stuck somewhere under the car, and try as he might, he couldn’t reach it, so he was trying to get it to leave on its own by spraying water at it. I crouched down to look under the car, and I could barely see the little white and black spotted kitten, soaking wet and scared to death.
Stinker was stuck far up in between all the piping that eventually leads to the engine, and he shaking and meowing like crazy, too scared to come down even though he didn’t like the water. My dad bent down to take a look too, and he tried to crawl under the car and reach him from there, but his hands were too big to fit. That meant it was up to my brother and myself to get the poor kitten out. He and I worked and worked to try and get him out, and it took nearly a half an hour before I could finally pull the wet, scrawny kitten out.
We took the kitten inside Merlin’s house and washed off all the grime he had acquired from the greasy car parts, and then we put him in a kennel after he was nice and dry. After exploring the Little Blue River, we stopped by Merlin’s house one last time, and that’s when he asked us if we’d like to keep the kitten. With a little begging and pleading, I was able to convince my dad that another cat is just what we needed. And so, we took that cute tiny, little kitten home, and named him Stinker, with no idea just how large he would grow.
Today, Mr. Smelly (the nickname he now has, it has nothing to do with his scent though!) weighs a whopping 20 lbs. and is one of the largest cats our vet has ever seen! He has long, beautiful fur, huge green eyes, a giant plume of a tail, and a personality that matches his size. It’s too bad that some people threw him out on the side of the road; look what they’re missing out on! Who knew that such a scrawny little kitten, with a strange story would turn into such a huge, wonderful cat?
Thank you Kim, for sharing your story of Mr. Stinker with our Paws for Pets readers.
August 7, 2009
A paws for pets
Have You Seen Me?
Have You Seen Me?
By Gail
Nordlund
Each time they stop at Chances R for lunch and this trip was no exception. Concie was taking Bridgette, their 1-year-old Yorkie, for a walk and several blocks from the restaurant she tripped and fell, causing Bridgette to become so frightened she bolted, dragging the leash that was attached to her harness. Concie was taken to the hospital and Bridgette was seen running south down Lincoln Avenue, all four pounds of her dodging cars and now running for her life. A citizen was able to grab her leash, but she managed to wiggle out of her harness, leaving him with the leash in his hand as he watched her run into the park.
By then, I had been notified by the police department and shortly after that a call came from the hospital telling me how worried Concie was for Bridgette's safety. I talked to her husband, John, and suggested some things that could be done to get Bridgette back. I had already called the radio station and put an ad in the paper, but I thought it would help if they went directly to the paper and radio station themselves, which they did. Time-Warner put her poster on the local channel for viewing and York Printing quickly made them posters to put up around town. That is when I was able to meet the Rughs. They were such nice people and I could see how committed they were to finding their dog. I assured them that Bridgette would be found. They needed to hear something positive and I believed my words. We were going to find this dog. Their family support was incredible. Their son drove all night from Colorado to help in the search and their daughter, an animal control officer in Virginia, flew out as well. She had lined up a tracker in Oklahoma that was on her way. I notified the Nebraska Animal Rescue Group and I was told that Hearts United from Auburn was also going to send out a tracker.
Bridgette had already spent one night out by herself and I'm sure she was terrified. Luck was on our side as Aaron and Angie Berthold happened to spot her running across the golf course, at first thinking it was their dog. They were on their way to pick up a pizza and that is when they saw the poster with Bridgette's picture. They called the number on the poster and immediately the Rughs came to the golf course.
They got a golf cart and split up looking for her in the area where she was last seen. As they called her name, their daughter heard her cry out, but when they located her and tried to approach, she retreated back into the bushes and would not come out. It wasn't until her main caregiver, Concie, arrived that Bridgette was willing to accept help. Concie's soft and gentle voice patiently called to her. Gradually and bravely little Bridgette crept out and into the safety of her dear one's arms.
I cannot tell you how happy I was to get that phone call from John to tell me the good news. I was already worrying about the upcoming storm and to hear she was safe brought tears to my eyes. A half hour later, it was raining hard with lots of thunder and lightning. What timing !
Some important things to know if you lose your pet. The first 48 hours are crucial in finding a house dog. After that time, they go into a survival mode and they are very difficult to catch, even for their owners. Put the word out, any way that you can. The Rughs did an excellent job of this. Always have an ID tag on your dog. Even though Bridgette slipped out of her harness, she was still wearing her collar and tags. Have a picture of your dog available . Call the local authorities every day to see if they have heard anything. Adopt a Pet is more than happy to get multiple calls if it would help bring your dog home to you.
We did receive a comment that people were making more out of finding a dog than they would a kid. I can assure you, if a child was ever missing in York, God forbid, the good citizens of York would respond in full force and Adopt a Pet and our volunteers would be the first to show up.
Rescue is what we do.
July
31, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Precious, a cat to remember
Last week was the first part of the story of
“Kitty”
written by
Jan Hatfield, telling how she had befriended this stray cat with eyes
that make you think an “old soul” lives within this cat.
After feeding
and enticing this ailing stray cat into her home the story picks up in
the spring of the year.Precious, a cat to remember
Spring finally arrived but Kitty's cold
never went away. He would still come in for his daily nap, but usually
wanted his food outside again, so we did it his way. He seemed to be
eating less and I was getting a little more worried that this wasn't
just a cold (I think I knew that all along). So every day I took him
his food and stood by the ledge while he ate a little and talked to him
quietly, which he seemed to enjoy (maybe I enjoyed it and he just
tolerated me.) Each day he was eating less and so now I'm standing by
him prepared with a plastic spoon to reposition the food if it becomes
mushed down to the plate, or put it in a spot closer to the edge of the
plate so maybe he could take a bit easier. And finally, I would lift a
little bite on the very edge of the fork and he would take it that way.
He would humor me and drink some milk that I kept pushing towards him
before he walked off each day, although I fear the milk was not helping
with his congestion, I was just concerned with getting more calories
into him.The last day I saw Kitty, I knew it would be the last time. He came and waited patiently, as always for me to see him sitting on the ledge. I took the plate of food, my trusty plastic fork and the milk to him. He took the few bites from the fork, and drank just a little, with me quietly encouraging him to eat or drink just a little more. We (I) talked about how it was such a pretty day, the sun was out, it was nice and warm and maybe his cold would soon not bother him anymore. When it was apparent he was finished eating, he took his little bath and then just sat and looked at me as if to say “now is your chance”. I reached out and very carefully petted his head. He didn't try to back away at all. Just patiently sat there and let me pet him and talk to him and call him my friend, every bit as patiently as he had waited for me every day, twice a day to bring his food for the last year. The tears just rolled as I petted him and he just looked at me with those same “old soul” eyes. When he had enough, he turned and started to walk down along the ledge toward the sidewalk. I knew I wouldn't see this beautiful creature again on my ledge. I called to him thinking he would come back for just a little while longer, but he kept going. When he got half way down the sidewalk, he turned around, stopped and sat down. He looked at me long enough as if to say “Thank you for being my friend.” As I watched him get up and start to walk away again, I very quietly (through the sobs) thanked him for being MY friend and said “Goodbye Kitty”. I watched him walk into the neighbors back yard and watched until I couldn't see him anymore. I knew I had seen my Kitty for the last time and only hoped that God would swoop him up to kitty heaven where there would be no more colds and a great big couch for him to relax and close his eyes on.
That was several years ago and as I write this the tears still roll like it was yesterday. Kitty taught me so many things I never thought I even needed to know: all you really need is food, milk, a soft warm place to sleep and someone to be your friend. Sometimes I think God sends certain animals to certain people so we can be that animal's “person”. God sent me Kitty (and several others over the years) and I think God sent Precious to you because you each have what the other needs and are willing to give it for as long as HE sees fir. I'm thankful that you, Gail and Judy and everyone else at Adopt-A-Pet have been given the God-given gift of compassion for the animals and you are all willing to give whatever it takes to make sure these little ones are given the love and car they all deserve. My pray is that all of you never tire of your task, that you are all able to continue your work for many years to com, and that the people you pass your work onto will have the same loving and caring hearts that all of you have. May God bless you and the little ones placed in your care. Sincerely, Jan Hatfield NOTE: Precious died shortly after her story was published. She died quietly with the same grace and acceptance that she showed in her short time with me. Her memory will be with me always, just as “Kitty's” will remain with Jan. And thank YOU Jan for sharing your story of “Kitty” with the readers of Paws for Pets.
July 17 , 2009
A paws for pets
Greeting Friends
Greeting Friends
By Gail
Nordlund
I take two walks every morning. The first
is with
Kunta and
Darlin, my dogs, and the second is with Shoe, my Adopt a Pet foster dog.There are some mornings when I would prefer to read the paper a little longer, and linger over my cup of coffee, but it is hard to do when there are three sets of eyes staring at me. Their biological clocks know when walk time is supposed to take place.
Sometimes, on Sundays as I am getting ready for church, they watch me get dressed and if I don't put on my walking shoes, they go back and lie down. They seem to understand. But, on a normal day, as I am lacing up my shoes, they begin to spin in circles as they work their way toward the door. Kunta, my African Hairless, is 9 years old and he still does not behave on a leash to my satisfaction. He pulls to mark every pole, bush and tree. He puts my arm strength to a test as he barks and lunges at the sight of a rabbit or squirrel, no matter how much I scold him. As he struts down the street you can hear him barking ... usually at nothing ... calling out to anyone that might want to listen, letting them know he is there.
In the meantime, Darlin, my funny faced little Shih Tzu, is behaving just fine. She is used to Kunta taking center stage and bless her heart, she tolerates it all. But, truth be known, Kunta is a little insecure and is frightened of strangers, so these walks have helped him to make friends and overcome some of his fears. With those he knows, he will "talk" to them with some nonsense barking that makes sense only to him, but it is his way of being friendly.
Both dogs get excited to meet the other dogs on our walk. They love Jane Brogan's collie, Maggie, and this particular morning they are greeting Rowdy Elfring (pictured). This is Socialization 101 at its finest.
Near the end of our walk, Kunta will sometimes take a quick plunge in the creek near the dam, nose down in the water, rump in the air, acting goofy, all for my pleasure.
by the front door. I leash him to safely get him across our busy street and down to the park and then I release him to wander and snoop on his own. He stays close to me , and unlike Kunta, will come when called. And also, unlike Kunta, Shoe doesn't know a stranger. People we meet are all potential new friends to him and if he has met you before, it will cause him to run full speed to greet you. This morning, it happened to be his special pals, Lloyd and Pat McCullough (pictured).
I get so much pleasure out of seeing my dogs experience the simple joy of a walk. If you are not walking your dog, you both are missing out. Even if it is just around the block. It is a simple gift you can give to them and it will be good for you as well. I guarantee they will love you even more for it.
July
10, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Precious, a cat to remember
Precious, a cat to remember
Cats and kittens come into the sanctuary and cats
and kittens are
adopted week after week. It amazes me that I can remember so many.Recently, I was at an antique show and a man walked up to me and said you are the “cat lady” from York, you probably don't remember me, but my wife and I adopted a cat named Allen. I immediately said, “Yes, I do remember Allen.” He was a little yellow tabby that was left in a kennel by the front door of Gloysteins and was a “jumper,” meaning he would jump from anywhere onto your shoulder without any notice. I was ashamed to say I didn't remember the man or his wife but I did remember Allen. I asked him if Allen was still a jumper and he said, “Oh yes, he continues to jump even though we are trying to teach him better manners.”
Allen is but one of hundreds to cross the threshold into the cat sanctuary. As others are crossing the exit door, others are always entering.
There are a few cats that enter the sanctuary that will probably never be adopted. One of those cats is named Precious. She came to us about a month ago. She was found on south York Avenue by a kind couple who saw her stumble onto their front sidewalk. She had stumbled because she was missing most of her front right leg.
She was so frail, literally emaciated. She ate so oddly, she reminded me of a chicken picking at a bowl of corn. Looking closely I could see why she was eating this way, she had no teeth on her left jaw and few left on her right jaw. I am almost positive she lost her leg to a trap, she has only a stump left and her shoulder is at an odd angle.
With a trip to the vet, we first had her Felv tested for feline leukemia. She tested negative. I was surprised, she was so thin that I would have expected her to be positive. She was slightly dehydrated but that could be remedied easily with pediatric. I know the intelligent decision would have been to put her to sleep, but when you work in a shelter sometimes you just can't make the “intelligent” decisions, sometimes you go with your heart and the look in an animal's eyes.
Precious has that look. She has the kindest most gentle eyes. They follow every move you make and when you put your hand close to her, she nuzzles your hand as if to say, “Thank you for taking me into your life.” We will deal with her teeth at a later date. Right now I am just taking one day at a time. She has difficulty walking, so for the time being she is living in a large airy kennel. Her bed is easy to get into, her water bowl is easy to reach and each morning and night she gets her dry and wet cat food put on a paper towel so she can lay down to eat.
I know she will never be adopted and I am not looking too far into the future, Precious and I are taking one day at a time. She may be with me for years to come, and she may leave me tomorrow, but for the time she’s allowed to stay Precious will have all of the comforts and all of my attention. She has earned it, and she is aptly named. Precious is of from Latin origin and means; great value, highly esteemed, endearment. Precious is certainly all of these. She is not a senior cat, her life has been hard and unforgiving as seen by her obvious injuries and declining health, but she will be treated as if she were a precious gift because to me she is.
Precious and I have formed a pact. She needs only to nuzzle my hand and look at me with those all knowing eyes and I will continue to treat her as she has never been treated in her life. With gentleness and kindness. I know that every day I have with Precious is a better day for me. We who volunteer in shelters all have our weaknesses and Precious is mine. I seem to remember cats and kittens from years past such as Allen, but there are some that are “special,” that you know you really made a difference in their lives, and in return they made a difference in yours.
Tomorrow is another day and if I am lucky, Precious will be here to share that day with me.
July 3 , 2009
A paws for pets
Just Like An Old Shoe
Just Like An Old Shoe
By Gail
Nordlund
For all the terrible things that happen to
animals,
fortunately
there are angels out there who are willing to help them. Several weeks
ago, private contractors for the state who clean the rest areas on I-80
made a miraculous discovery. They picked up the trash at the rest areas
between York and Milford and before unloading the truck at the refuse
plant, they thought they could hear a crying sound coming from one of
the bags. They carefully took out bag after bag until they discovered
which one held the pitiful sound of distress. Tearing the bag open,
they discovered a box and inside the box was a tiny puppy, his eyes
barely open. Horrified, they rushed him to the vet in Seward, who said
other than being dehydrated and hungry, he was in good health. He
estimated the puppy was about 2 weeks old and got them fixed up with
puppy formula to calm his aching tummy and silence his cries of hunger.
This little fellow was only moments away from an horrific death. To do
this to a helpless animal makes no sense at all.These kind people nursed little Lucky for a week and then contacted us to see if we would take him. He is now living the good life of foster care at Jerry and Elaine Waggoner's and is about a month old now. He is a stocky, tough little guy ... very small in stature, but his determination to live was huge. His will to scream at the top of his lungs for help, even at 2 weeks of age, tells me he wasn't going to go down easy. He is kind of funny looking, a little bow legged and one person described his face similar to a koala bear.
This story had an happy ending, despite the terrible odds.
In my last column, I wrote about Shoe, the large chocolate lab that was found wandering into Bradshaw, weary and smelling like a skunk. I was positive he must be a lost dog because I didn't feel anyone would dump an older dog that was as kind and gentle as he is. Well, guess what? I was fooled again by the cruelty of man. He has been identified and his owners moved out of state April 25. Shoe was found on May 3, his collar removed and a long way from home. He is not a runner, so I know he had to be left out in the country somewhere, in an area strange to him, and it puts a lump in my throat to think how confused he must have felt. I hope his former owners are having nightmares every night and for the rest of their lives wondering what happened to Moose ... his real name. It is beyond anything that I can comprehend to understand how someone could do that to an 8-year-old gentle, loyal family pet. But, rest assured, he is in good hands now. He is fed twice daily, sleeps on a dog bed in my bedroom, spends the days inside or out — his choice — via the pet door.
And he gets a walk through the park every day. But, most of all, he gets lots of love and attention, the basic necessity for any dog.
As a reminder, please look out for your pets during this Fourth of July holiday. Bring them inside, especially at night, to spare their sensitive ear drums the sound of fireworks. We are already trying to catch several dogs that are running scared.
Please don't let this happen to your pet. Enjoy the holiday, and let your pet enjoy it too.
June
26, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Missing feline caught cat napping
Missing feline caught cat napping
Several weeks ago I was out of town.
Regardless if
I am home or on the road my cell phone is always on and always ringing.I had received several calls regarding relinquishing cats, wanting to adopt kittens, found cats and at approximately 10:30 a.m. I received a call from Lonnie Berger who owns our local Wendy's Restaurant. He said he had a couple stop in and ask him if any of his employees had seen his missing cat.
Lonnie said he would call and see if York Adopt a Pet could offer any help. After visiting with Lonnie I asked if I could have the traveler’s cell phone number and could get information directly from him.
The phone had barely rung when Jerry answered his cell phone. He and his wife, Sharon, were traveling from Belton, Texas to Minnesota for the summer. They were pulling a fifth-wheel travel trailer with their yellow lab JJ King and their yellow cat named Ken Kat. They had spent the night at Comfort Inn. JJ King and Ken Kat had spent the night in the fifth wheel. Early the next morning before getting back on the road, Jerry took JJ King for a walk.
Sharon thinking he also had Ken Kat (who always wears a halter leash while traveling) left the camper door open. Arriving back at the camper Jerry saw the open camper door and NO Ken Kat. After spending a great deal of time checking out the camper, under the camper, under the truck, in the near by area they were panicked to discover that Ken Kat had simply vanished.
They spread their search to include the surrounding businesses and this is when Lonnie called me.
I told Jerry I couldn't be back until approximately 5 p.m., but promised to stop on my way into York and we would form a game plan. I talked with Jerry several times in the afternoon and he and his wife had spent an exhausting day checking out the corn field just to the east of Comfort Inn. It was our first day in the 90s and very humid.
Pulling off the interstate I met Jerry and Sharon next to their camper. I had reassured them during the day that I knew Ken Kat would be close by. Cats don't run like dogs when they are in unfamiliar territory. They usually run to the nearest area that they can hide. You can walk right by them and if they are scared enough they will not come when called. I also know that most cats won't come when called unless they WANT to, so I wasn't concerned that with them calling Kitty Kitty that he didn't come trotting up to them.
As I got out of my vehicle the first thing I asked was “are you sure that he is not in the camper.” Jerry said, “No Ma’am, we checked every crevice and corner; he is not in the camper.” We spent some time checking areas that they had already searched and I said I would get my live trap, some strong fishy cat food and come back to set the trap and wait until night fall when the area quieted down. I was certain Ken Kat would come sneaking out of the corn field. I told them that he was probably sitting there watching us the entire time. I did make one suggestion; I told Jerry to back his trailer as close to the corn field as possible and maybe put JJ King on his lease.
JJ King and Ken Kat were a bonded pair. When JJ King came carrying a little yellow kitten to their front door in Texas several years ago with the head out one side of his massive jaw and the hind legs out the other, Jerry was certain he was carrying a dead kitten. But no, he was just bringing him home. And they have been “best friends” from that day forward.
I drove about a mile when my cell phone rang. Jerry was yelling into the phone and I could hear his wife Sharon yelling in the background. They had backed the trailer as far east as it would go next to the corn field, and when they opened the camper door, BINGO! There sat Ken Kat. Sharon was so excited and relieved.
I came back to take a picture of the happy reunion.
Jerry said, “You know I think when I moved the camper, it woke Ken Kat up from a nap.”
They had searched the camper thoroughly and just knew he wasn't in there. I laughed and said cats can hide in an empty room and if they don't want to be seen, you won't to see them. Jerry and Sharon had an emotional and exhausting day, and all the while Ken Kat was taking a long cat nap. They were so appreciative of our help and I was thrilled that this cat story had such a great ending.
I talked to Lonnie later and he said they came back to thank him and to let him know they were reunited with Ken Kat. He said they were surprised strangers would be so willing to help them find their lost cat, and they would never forget York.
I won't forget their excitement and happiness when they were reunited with their cat. And as for Ken Kat, well he slept through most of the excitement.
June 19 , 2009
A paws for pets
Just Like An Old Shoe
Just Like An Old Shoe
By Gail
Nordlund
I've said many times how I wish some of the dogs we get at Adopt a Pet could talk and tell us their story.
In
early May, a large chocolate lab was found in Bradshaw. He was brought
to our shelter and the next day I went up to meet him. Staring at me
through the kennel door was one of the largest labs I have seen, yet
his soft eyes and quiet demeanor told me he was a gentle giant. I
stepped into his kennel to check him over. He patiently let me feel all
over his body to check for injuries or anything unusual. He was
neutered, in excellent condition, a little overweight maybe, but well
cared for. He looked to be mid-age, maybe 6 or 7 and was not wearing a
collar. He did have a strong skunk smell, so I am certain he had been
in the country long enough to get that and had worked his way into town.He spent two days at the shelter, and was miserable the entire time. He would not eat his food and the look of sadness on his face tugged at my heartstrings. I thought he would be claimed soon, so I made the decision to bring him to my house and foster him until his owners showed up.
But first, a trip to the groomers to get a much needed bath and to try and eliminate the skunk smell. I then brought him home and gave him another dose of a homemade recipe to remove skunk odor and it seemed to do the trick. I gave him a large doggie bed out in my sun room where he had access to my fenced yard and he immediately laid down on it. He was familiar with a dog bed. Everything he did taught me something about him. When suppertime came, he ate what I served him. He was hungry, but ate slowly, like a gentleman. In the middle of the night, he let out a sad moan ... a long whine. I knew he was missing something. It didn't last long ... but I knew he was lonely for someone.
I put an ad in the lost and found and notified the Nebraska Rescue Group, but no one called. It didn't make sense. I couldn't imagine someone deliberately dumping a kind, gentle dog like this. It was obvious he had never known abuse or been mistreated, and his weight told me he had not been on his own for long. Could he have been stolen from another part of the country and abandoned here? Did he somehow get left at a rest area? Where did this dog come from?
It wasn't long before he began to follow my dogs from the sunroom into my kitchen through the pet door. He came in, sheepishly, the first time, as if he felt he was intruding. I welcomed him into the house and he immediately laid down and looked perfectly at ease.
I said to him, "You are like an old shoe. You fit in anywhere.”
And after that, he was known as Shoe.
Now, at night, he sleeps on a doggie bed in my bedroom and he no longer makes the sad whines he did before. When I had to be gone for a few days, Paul and Carol Toms kept him for me. He soon became friends with the neighbors and their dogs on Meadow Lane. He has since gone back there to spend a Sunday afternoon visiting with his new friends – a doggie play day I guess you would call it.
My dogs have taken to him. I think he reminds them of Angel, my yellow lab mix that died late in 2008. Their personalities are very similar. Shoe has a calming effect on my dogs, just like Angel did.
But, no dog was happier than Bridger Schlegelmilch when he spent a weekend at my house recently while his owners were out of town. Bridger had grieved after Angel died – he searched the house for her, sniffed her collar and you could see the sadness in him. But, when he met Shoe, it was as if he had seen Angel again. He looked so happy. He spent the entire weekend shadowing Shoe, exploring things in the yard with him and sleeping by his side at night. Bridger's sadness was gone ... no more searching for Angel.
I'm sorry Shoe can't talk. I feel someone surely must be looking for him. You don't let a good dog like this go – not in a million years. Maybe Shoe was sent to us to fill a void ... I don't know ... some things you just can't explain.
And my dogs, Kunta and Darlin, along with Shoe, would like to thank Kopcho Sanitation for the tasty biscuits they throw to them while we are on our walk. They love
June
12, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Update on Little Willie and Nancy, who never gave up
Update on Little Willie and Nancy, who never gave up
Approximately a year ago I wrote an article
about
“Little
Willie.” He was a little orange striped kitten found on the south
bank
of the Platte River by a fisherman. He weighed no more than two pounds
and looked like a true to life cartoon kitten. He had the most
endearing expression on his face and a personality that was
extraordinary. He was dropped off at Gloystein’s Clinic by a
fisherman
(he told them he just didn't have the heart to leave him). When I
arrived to pick him up I was told that he had a large growth protruding
from his right eye, and Claudia said it was “pretty bad.”
When I saw
this tiny little kitten with a growth the size of a large plum where
his eye should have been, I stopped dead in my tracks. It was horrible,
like nothing I had ever seen. But I looked past the growth and saw a
frail little kitten watching me very calmly. Immediately he reached a
paw through the bars and touched my hand. Dr. Jennifer said the growth
was not painful and that it could be removed but the chance of it
growing back was probable.I looked at this little guy with an expression as if to say, “Hey can't you just give me a chance?”
So Little Willie faced his first surgery. He had his eye removed, as well as the gross looking tumor. With his eye socket sewed shut, you never even noticed that he was missing his eye. Little Willie recovered quickly. All of the volunteers fell in love with Little Willie. He was the most gentle, affectionate kitten that had ever visited the Cat Sanctuary. Within a couple of weeks I received a call from Nancy who lives in Chester, Neb. She is a truly wonderful person who has a love of cats and a soft heart when it comes to a story such as Willie's. When she came to adopt Little Willie, I explained that the chances were that the growth could come back. She accepted the chances and said she would give Willie all of the love and attention he deserved. Within a short month I received a call from Nancy. The growth had returned, and had doubled in size in just a few days. She had heard of a vet in Aurora that was especially good with small animals, so she called and made an appointment. The next day Willie had his second surgery. The tissue was sent in and came back as a malignant neoplasm tumor with a typical uncontrolled cell development. This vet cautioned that it could grow back if the source of the tumor had not been removed. If it did grow back he would remove what had grown back hoping that this would destroy the source. Within several weeks the tumor was once again growing rapidly, so Nancy took him to a clinic in Belleville, Kan., and a vet who had doctored many of her other cats through the years. This vet consulted with Kansas State Veterinary College. Nancy left Little Willie and said, “I don't want to put Little Willie through any more, so if you think it's necessary from a medical standpoint, then you have my permission to put Little Willie to sleep.”
When the vet called her later in the day he explained that Little Willie had his third surgery, hoping that it was his last. Nancy called and said she discussed this with several other veterinarian's and they all agreed that Little Willie had no pain with these surgeries, as it was like a person having cataract surgery. The tumor was just below the skin and sat on the eye socket so each time they could “peel” the tumor off the eye socket. Nancy said she would never continue if she thought Little Willie was in pain. When the tumor started to grow once again she had emotionally accepted that for Willie it was time. She e-mailed me with the sad news that Little Willie's tumor had started to grow. I posted on our Cat Sanctuary Forum that our Little Willie had lost his battle. I received so many replies all voicing their sadness and regret that this little “fighter” had lost his fight. You can imagine my surprise when Nancy e-mailed me back later in the day. The vet said the tumor had slowed its rapid growth and he would peel it off one more time. So Willie had his fourth surgery. The vet said to Nancy, “I just wish I had the training & equipment to do laser surgery, which can destroy cells that normal surgeries can leave intact.”
When the tumor started to return within two weeks, Nancy searched the Internet and found a vet who not only did laser surgery but specialized in small animals. So for the fifth time Little Willie had eye surgery. The vet was very encouraged but said to call immediately if it started to return and he would laser the exact spot of its source. In five days Little Willie had his sixth and final surgery. That was more than three months ago. Little Willie's fur has completely grown back over his incision, which is an excellent sign that the tissue has finally healed and is healthy.
Little Willie has beaten the odds, with Nancy never giving up hope and after six surgeries he still has an endearing personality and an acceptance of life. He is a survivor, and Nancy is remarkable. They make a special team, Nancy and Little Willie.”
June 5 ,
2009
A paws for pets
Throwaways
Throwaways
By Gail
Nordlund
I walk through the park every day
with my dogs and get so disgusted to see the garbage people leave
behind.With all of the nearby trash receptacles available, people still choose to throw their empty bottles and cans and fast food sacks on the lawn or into the creek. The other morning I saw a blue bucket by the side of the creek. I recognized it as one that was carried by two young boys as they walked by my house the day before with their fishing poles, heading for Beaver Creek.
I walked over to examine it and to my dismay, there was a dead fish lying beside the bucket ... it had been caught and left to die. I thought to myself, "Why couldn't they have just thrown it back into the water if they didn't want it?"
To some it may be just a fish, but it tells me something about today's society ... something that has trickled down to our youth. Take a drive along almost any country road and you will see the landscape is marred with sacks of trash, perhaps a discarded couch or a refrigerator. I cannot imagine what is going through someone's mind to load up these items and take them into the beautiful countryside and throw them out. It makes it hard to enjoy nature's beauty when you see something like this.
I've spoken many times about the discarded pets in today's world. They, too, seem to be no more than trash to many undeserving pet owners. They are thrown out along country roads, just like the bags of trash, without the owner giving it a second thought.
Someone was terribly reckless the other day. They threw two small dachshund mix puppies over our nine foot Adopt a Pet dog park fence. At the time, there were two large dogs running free inside the park. They had to have seen them, yet they still threw the puppies over, having no regard for their welfare, not knowing or apparently caring, what the big dogs would do to them. But, by a stroke of luck, our kennel manager Kim Hart and her husband Tom, just happened to drive by, doing one of their frequent checks of the park. They were horrified to see one of the big dogs roughly rolling one of the puppies on the ground, over and over. He might have been playing, but the puppy was in grave danger. They rushed inside and swooped up both puppies and I am sure their hearts were in their throats ... I know that feeling only too well.
I am so disgusted at something like this happening. All they had to do was look on the door of Adopt a Pet where our phone numbers are posted, and they could have called one of us. But, just like the lazy guy who dumps the couch or the trash bag in the country, or throws his Pepsi can in the creek or leaves a fish to die, they didn't care. This was easier.
I suspect that whoever did this might have been raising puppies, because they are the same breed, yet there is several months difference in their ages. They appear to be long-haired dachshunds or possibly dachshund/terrier cross. We would have been happy to take them if they would have just called us and taken the appropriate steps in relinquishing a pet. It would have been helpful for us to have more information on them.
We are asking the public to, please, not put any animals in our dog park. Can you imagine the emotional trauma that Kim and Tom would have suffered if instead they had found the bodies of these sweet little puppies when they arrived, to say nothing of the brutal death the puppies might have endured?
This picture shows Kim with the lucky little puppies and by the smile on Kim's face, you can tell she is happy they showed up at the right time. They were fortunate. All I can say to the owners is shame on you and please don't get any more pets.
May
29, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Annette and her 'adopted' Peanut
Annette and her 'adopted' Peanut
This time of year there are so
many kittens ... kittens with their mothers, kittens without their
mothers.Litters of eight and as few as a single little kitten. But they add up quickly, at one time recently we had 37 kittens. Over half needed to be bottle fed even though some kittens had their mothers, who were barely more than babies themselves and didn't have near enough milk to nurse their new babies. Thankfully we have some wonderful volunteers who will foster these little babies. It takes a lot of dedication to bottle feed these little ones, some require feeding every four to six hours. They are so tiny and dependent. I received a call on April 20 that a tiny kitten had been found near the Perennial Power building south of York. She was a little bright calico, and probably was one to two days old, her umbilical cord was still attached.
Lisa, who called me, had her wrapped in her sweater keeping her warm until I could get there. They saw no sign of any other kittens. No mother. Nothing. Just this tiny 1 day old kitten lying next to an indentation by the side of the building near their drop box. I was fearful that this little “Peanuts” wouldn't make it, her body temperature was so low. I took a chance and brought her to a volunteer who was fostering a mother and five 2 week old babies hoping that the new mother would accept her. Thankfully she did and Peanuts flourished in her care.
Before very long the five older kittens began to shove her aside, so we removed Peanuts and brought her to the sanctuary where I had a mother with two kittens about her size. Peanuts once again gained weight and actually out sized the two adopted siblings she was placed with.
Today she is yet again with a new mother whose three kittens are more her size. We normally do not mix kittens to hold down the spread of disease but sometimes it is necessary to save a kitten's life. Nothing is worse than to see a kitten who is fat and healthy start to fail. You can see it happening and unfortunately there are times when you can do nothing to stop the decline. So with little Peanut it is especially rewarding to see that she has such a desire to live and has had the help from three different very young mothers to get to this stage in her life.
The current “mother” is Annette, and if I didn't know better I would think that she could be her biological mother as they look identical. Annette and her three tiny babies came from Lincoln. We normally don't take in cats and kittens from out of county, but there are exceptions. This was one of those times. A woman called and said this “stray” cat had been “hanging” around since last fall. She thought it was about 6 months old and she went out near her garage and heard kittens meowing. She didn't want the stray or kittens, and she said that since the mother had an injury to her leg no one would take them. I asked her if the mother was social and she said, “Oh yes, she is always trying to get into my house, but I won't let her.”
On my way through Lincoln the next day I stopped at 56th Street and met the woman to pick up the mother and three babies. Little Annette was anxiously trying to hide her babies to keep me from picking them up. She seemed very awkward in her movements and I quickly saw why. She was missing about one-third of her back right leg. It was immediately evident to me that she looked as though she had been caught in a animal leg trap. Probably in one of the traps that people are now allowed by Nebraska law to set in state and county road ditches.
This law was just reversed in the last few months even though there was opposition from all of the state's shelters including Hearts United in Auburn, Nebraska Humane Society and Capital Humane Society to name a few.
Stray cats such as Annette, people walking their dogs on leashes, not to mention adults or children are at risk of stepping on one of these cruel and painful traps. The law to allow setting these traps was in affect until several years ago when a couple lost their dog and later found him caught in one of these traps near their rural home. He died as a result. At that time the law was reversed and it was AGAINST the law. Now the law has once AGAIN changed to allow individuals to set traps on all state and county ditches unless a county has their own law against allowing these traps in their county. They are “mandated” to check the traps in a certain time frame.
I am sure to the animal in the trap it can't be soon enough.
If little Annette could tell us, I am sure she would have quite a story to tell of her very young life. Hopefully we at the Cat Sanctuary can now help her write the rest of her story by assuring her that we will see to it that she gets her “Forever Home” in a safe and loving environment. That her three babies and adopted “Peanuts” will also be placed in a home where there will be no need to search the ditches for food or shelter.
May 22 ,
2009
A paws for pets
Hope
Hope
By Gail
Nordlund
I had a great time last week. I stayed in
Omaha
with my sixteen
year old grandson, Cody, while his parents were gone. Cody didn't
require a lot of my attention, but their two little dogs, Nike
and
Libby did.Two years ago, I did an article on Libby, their three pound Maltese. Libby was brought into their home after their little Yorkie was struck by their car — a tragic accident that my grandsons, Nate and Cody witnessed. Nate and Libby seemed to bond immediately and she soon became his dog. She slept with him and when you saw one, you saw the other. Nate became very protective of her and his last words to his mother, as he got into the car to go on vacation to Colorado with family friends were, "Watch out for Libby." That day, July 29, 2003, was Nate's last day on earth when the vehicle in which he was riding had an accident and claimed the life of this happy, vibrant and soft hearted 13-year-old. Some of you might know what it is like to lose a child or a grandchild. There are no words to adequately describe the pain and grief that accompanies it. We knew what we were grieving for, but what about Libby? She had to know something was terribly wrong with her family. The usual chatter and activity of two brothers and the surroundings of a happy family was now one of silence and she had to sense the sadness that hung a cloud of gloom and despair over this home. She searched the house over and over again looking for Nate, and patiently waited for him in his bedroom, eagerly expecting him to walk into the room.
Animal researcher Marc Bekoff, says "Dogs have affection and compassion for their animal and human friends and family. They defend loved ones. They grieve their losses. They have hope."
Libby had hope. She waited and waited and finally she just gave up. She would not eat her food and my daughter Julie, ended up cooking chicken for her to entice her to eat something. She retreated to a dark spot in Julie and Ed's bedroom, never to come out, except to go outside for routine duties.
She would perk up if they took her in the car or when they made trips back to York. Nate is buried here and she would lay on his grave during their visits to the cemetery and seemed perfectly content. But upon returning home, she retreated once again to her dark place in the bedroom. Libby was beyond the grieving point. She was now in a depression.
There was a time when Julie felt so badly for Libby that she contemplated finding a new home for her to get her away from the memories and to offer her a new start. To free her from the pain she was feeling. But, they found they could not bear to part with Nate's dog. So, Libby lived her life, mostly in the bedroom, content to be alone, for almost six years.
When their family visited over Easter, I noticed that Libby seemed to be unusually perky and Julie told me that she was like a different dog. She loved being around us, taking a turn on everyone's lap. I asked Julie what she was like at home and she said that Libby now spends most of the day in the kitchen and is a part of the family again. I could hardly believe it!
I was able to see things first hand when I stayed there this past week. I could not believe the change in her. She seemed to have more energy and the highlight of her day was mealtime and taunting their other dog, Nike, daring him to try and take her food, that she now enjoys. Her eyes have a spark that was void before. She slept in bed with me at night and when I took her outside, she would explore everywhere, enjoying the brightness of the day and the warmth of the sun, as she strutted confidently around the yard. Somehow, at some point, she came out of the great sadness that had engulfed her body, mind and spirit. I feel badly that it took nearly half of her life – six years, to accomplish that.
Looking back, as it is always easy to do, it would have been wise if one of us had thought to take Libby to see Nate. It would have been a way to explain to her what had happened and possibly the outcome might have been different.
To quote Bekoff again, "Dogs know they are dependent. They learn to read us. Dogs develop this great sense of trust. We're tightly linked, and there is something spiritual about that unity. Dogs are thinking animals. They seek the outcomes they want. They avoid the ones they don't. They solve problems. They have expectations. They have hope."
It was a difficult journey, but Libby has hope again.
May
15, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Cinderella really did live happily ever after
Cinderella really did live happily ever after
“Once
upon a
time” a
beautiful Russian Blue mama cat made the
best decision of her young life when she chose to have her six tiny
babies in the window well of Joyce Angle's home in west York.
We don't know how her story began, we don't know why she was on her own at such a young age, we know that she continued to come to Joyce's back deck seeking food. Her story began with us in July of 2006 when Joyce discovered why she had continued to be seen in and around her back yard. She discovered six tiny babies nestled in her south window well. Cinderella and her babies came to the Cat Sanctuary and joined the masses of other young mothers and dozens and dozens of baby kittens. Her kittens were soon adopted, going to Aurora, Lincoln and Beatrice.
Cinderella
was spayed, brought up current on her vaccinations and settled in at
the Cat Sanctuary. Many times people would remark what a beautiful cat
she was but each time she was shown any interest, Cinderella would
treat the new potential family with disdain and irritability. I would
get so frustrated with her. When no one was around she was so loving
and affectionate, but the minute someone would come to the sanctuary
she showed an “attitude” each and every time. More than
once I would
scold her when we were alone and said many a times, “Cinderella
if you
don't change your attitude you are NEVER going to be adopted.”
She would look at me with big gold eyes as if to say “whatever.”
You know you are involved emotionally with the cats when you start having one way conversations with them. Several times Bob has come into the sanctuary and ask “who are you talking to?” I sheepishly say, “Oh, just talking to the cats ...”
On July 1, 2008, I received a call from Jill. She had seen Cinderella on our Web site and said that she was very interested in her. She and her son made an appointment to come that very afternoon from Lincoln to see her. I was so excited but so stressed thinking if Cinderella blows this adoption she truly will end up being a permanent resident of the cat sanctuary.
Sure enough Cinderella went into her anti social mode and I thought, this is the chance of a lifetime, don't blow it.
Jill's son Troy was not deterred as he kept saying, “Mom she is the one.”
I could tell Jill was apprehensive, but after sitting on my back porch trying to coax Cinderella into their laps she finally relented and agreed to take a chance on Cinderella. I told them that if things didn't work out to call me and we would take her back.
For several weeks every time the phone rang (and it rings non stop) I held my breath thinking this is the dreaded call, Cinderella is coming back.
Yesterday I received this note from Jill:
Dear LaMoine,
Last May we lost our Missy of eight years. My son and I were very sad and many tears were shed. We slowly started the search for another cat. One night I saw an ad in the paper for York Adopt a Pet and decided to check out your Web site. As I was browsing I came across a picture of a beautiful young Russian Blue named Cinderella. “Troy,” I yelled, “come check this cat out, it's a Russian Blue!” He came down and saw her picture and declared, “Mom that's the cat I want.” We read her rescue story ... and our decision was made. On a hot July afternoon we made our trip to York. There were many cats to choose from and many of them vying for attention, but NOT Cinderella. Cinderella ran, and finally due to my son's perseverance became an “unwilling detainee” in his lap. I'm not sure about her, she doesn't seem very friendly,” I commented. “Oh mom, remember what Missy was like?” my son reassured me, “and she came around!”
I reluctantly agreed to the adoption. Once we got her home, I realized my fears were unfounded. Cinderella made herself right at home. Cinderella continues to be a wonderful pet. She follows us, and is usually there to greet us when we come home if she's not asleep on the bed. She also likes to “stalk” birds from inside the living room. She is a wonderful cat and companion. I wrote the above little story for you to share with others and to thank you for your patience & compassion you showed to our little Cinderella.
Sincerely,
Jill and Troy
My grandson and granddaughter are coming for a visit soon. They love for grandma to tell them stories of her cats and kittens (they think these are all grandma's cats and kittens). This will be a special story for Erin as Cinderella is her “mostest” favorite princess. I will enjoy seeing their anticipation of the story of “Once upon a time there was a stray cat named Cinderella. And it will be especially rewarding when I can say, “And they all lived happily ever after. The end.”
We don't know how her story began, we don't know why she was on her own at such a young age, we know that she continued to come to Joyce's back deck seeking food. Her story began with us in July of 2006 when Joyce discovered why she had continued to be seen in and around her back yard. She discovered six tiny babies nestled in her south window well. Cinderella and her babies came to the Cat Sanctuary and joined the masses of other young mothers and dozens and dozens of baby kittens. Her kittens were soon adopted, going to Aurora, Lincoln and Beatrice.
Cinderella
was spayed, brought up current on her vaccinations and settled in at
the Cat Sanctuary. Many times people would remark what a beautiful cat
she was but each time she was shown any interest, Cinderella would
treat the new potential family with disdain and irritability. I would
get so frustrated with her. When no one was around she was so loving
and affectionate, but the minute someone would come to the sanctuary
she showed an “attitude” each and every time. More than
once I would
scold her when we were alone and said many a times, “Cinderella
if you
don't change your attitude you are NEVER going to be adopted.”She would look at me with big gold eyes as if to say “whatever.”
You know you are involved emotionally with the cats when you start having one way conversations with them. Several times Bob has come into the sanctuary and ask “who are you talking to?” I sheepishly say, “Oh, just talking to the cats ...”
On July 1, 2008, I received a call from Jill. She had seen Cinderella on our Web site and said that she was very interested in her. She and her son made an appointment to come that very afternoon from Lincoln to see her. I was so excited but so stressed thinking if Cinderella blows this adoption she truly will end up being a permanent resident of the cat sanctuary.
Sure enough Cinderella went into her anti social mode and I thought, this is the chance of a lifetime, don't blow it.
Jill's son Troy was not deterred as he kept saying, “Mom she is the one.”
I could tell Jill was apprehensive, but after sitting on my back porch trying to coax Cinderella into their laps she finally relented and agreed to take a chance on Cinderella. I told them that if things didn't work out to call me and we would take her back.
For several weeks every time the phone rang (and it rings non stop) I held my breath thinking this is the dreaded call, Cinderella is coming back.
Yesterday I received this note from Jill:
Dear LaMoine,
Last May we lost our Missy of eight years. My son and I were very sad and many tears were shed. We slowly started the search for another cat. One night I saw an ad in the paper for York Adopt a Pet and decided to check out your Web site. As I was browsing I came across a picture of a beautiful young Russian Blue named Cinderella. “Troy,” I yelled, “come check this cat out, it's a Russian Blue!” He came down and saw her picture and declared, “Mom that's the cat I want.” We read her rescue story ... and our decision was made. On a hot July afternoon we made our trip to York. There were many cats to choose from and many of them vying for attention, but NOT Cinderella. Cinderella ran, and finally due to my son's perseverance became an “unwilling detainee” in his lap. I'm not sure about her, she doesn't seem very friendly,” I commented. “Oh mom, remember what Missy was like?” my son reassured me, “and she came around!”
I reluctantly agreed to the adoption. Once we got her home, I realized my fears were unfounded. Cinderella made herself right at home. Cinderella continues to be a wonderful pet. She follows us, and is usually there to greet us when we come home if she's not asleep on the bed. She also likes to “stalk” birds from inside the living room. She is a wonderful cat and companion. I wrote the above little story for you to share with others and to thank you for your patience & compassion you showed to our little Cinderella.
Sincerely,
Jill and Troy
My grandson and granddaughter are coming for a visit soon. They love for grandma to tell them stories of her cats and kittens (they think these are all grandma's cats and kittens). This will be a special story for Erin as Cinderella is her “mostest” favorite princess. I will enjoy seeing their anticipation of the story of “Once upon a time there was a stray cat named Cinderella. And it will be especially rewarding when I can say, “And they all lived happily ever after. The end.”
May 13 ,
2009
A paws for pets
Miracle Puppies
Miracle Puppies
By Gail
Nordlund
Many of you might recall an article I
did at
the end of
January
about the starving dog Reba and her puppies.Reba was rescued from an area about 20 miles east of Lincoln, in Otoe County, on January 15, along with her six grown pups from a previous litter. Reba was pregnant again and in desperate need of help. She needed nourishment badly and a warm place to have her puppies. Karen Walhmeier provided such a place and prepared her home for Reba to give birth. One week later, she had nine puppies and it was a miracle they all survived considering the condition of their poor mother . It was a joy to see Reba with her puppies cuddled up in warm blankets — something I know she had never experienced before.
Under the
watchful eye of Karen and her husband Ken, these puppies have
flourished. They have now been moved outside to a pen, but are let out
often to run in their fenced acreage. They are learning so many things
from Reba. And the Wahlmeiers’ three-legged dog, Charlie, is
having a
ball playing with them and teaching them a few manners. They are
beautiful puppies and each has a different look and personality. Karen
said she and Ken spend a lot of time just sitting out and watching
them. These puppies have had the best of everything and will make
wonderful family pets for whoever is lucky enough to adopt one. It
saddens me to think what would have happened to Reba if she had been
forced to have her puppies where she was living. They could never have
survived. Reba and her older pups were already on the brink of
starvation, so their future was bleak as well. This one rescue trip
made the difference in the lives of 16 animals and it is possible none
of them would have seen spring arrive this year had it not been so.
Thank goodness for the observant lady that spotted Reba eating corn in
the field and had the initiative to follow her home and to seek help
for her. Without her, none of this would have been possible. Three of
the six older pups have been adopted and three of Reba's little puppies
have been spoken for. All will have good lives, I am confident of that.A word of caution to pet owners. For those who do not already know, there is a Cocoa Mulch manufactured by Hershey's that smells good enough to eat. It contains an ingredient called Therbromine that is lethal to dogs and cats. If ingested, it could kill them. Several deaths of dogs have already occurred. If you are a pet owner, please avoid using this mulch in your yard.
A pet’s 10 commandments
1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.
2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.
3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well being.
4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I only have you.
5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however your treat me, I won't forget it.
7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.
9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.
10. On the difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.
May 8 , 2009
A paws for pets
By Gail
Nordlund
The dog has always been referred to as "man's best
friend" and
rightly so. A dog can become an important member of your family. They
can provide companionship and it has been proven many people who suffer
from depression and loneliness find comfort in having a dog. Sometimes
dogs perform acts of courage, defending their masters against harm,
alerting a family to a burning home or rescuing a drowning child. After
911, at Ground Zero, dozens of rescue dogs were treated for smoke
inhalation and burned paws, but they continued doing their job at the
command of their handler. Countless dogs gave their lives in World War
11 and in Vietnam, where, sadly, they were left behind when the troops
came home. This practice has now been changed and the dog returns home
with his handler and is honorably discharged.So, if a dog is man's best friend, why have they become one of the most abused and neglected pets in the world? The answer is greed. Puppy mills have surfaced in every state, breeding dogs in despicable conditions, and if you purchased a puppy from a pet store, you helped to keep them in business.
I recently received a list from the Nebraska Rescue Group that I belong to. It listed all of the Class B dealers in the nation. A Class B dealer collects dogs and sells them for body parts and to laboratories for research. A documentary movie was made called Dealing Dogs, shown on HBO, when a young man went undercover at the largest Class B kennel in the nation and secretly filmed the abuse and neglect that took place there. After being exposed, the kennel was shut down in 2005 and the owners will be going to court this year.
You hear about things like this and think it is probably an isolated incident. It isn't. That was just one kennel. You aren't in that kind of business if you love dogs. These people want to make money off domesticated pets. Nebraska has 12 licensed Class B dealers and Missouri tops the nation with 160. Many other states have over 70 in operation. Where do they get all of these dogs to keep themselves in business? Have you ever looked in the newspaper and read in the pet column: “Moving. Free to loving home. Purebred cocker spaniel – family pet – good with children."
Those dogs are gobbled up immediately. I know, because we call many of these people to warn them, but it is usually too late. Never put a free ad in for your pet. Only give it to a person you know or to someone that you can check out. Getting a reference from their vet is a good start. Don't listen to what they tell you. They are smooth talkers.
And never ... never put your dog on Craigslist or similar Web sites. There are predators out there and I have documentation to prove it. Man's best friend is being exploited in the worst possible ways. But, painful as it is, I read the stories because I need to be informed. If you must surrender your pet, contact a rescue group or a reputable shelter.
I get so weary sometimes thinking about the people that prey on dogs and I wonder what kind of a difference I can make. I cannot do as much as I would like, but I can warn you and inform you so it doesn't happen to your pet.
Upsetting as it is, my spirits can be lifted by good pet owners. I just have to look down the block to the home of Rex Perkinton and my faith in mankind is renewed. His dog, Globie, is three fourths English Setter and one fourth Blue Heeler and is 16 years old. For the past 11 years, I have watched Rex and Globie in the truck, going to the park or to Recharge Lake for his twice a day run. The dog is barking all the way ... it's obvious how much he loves it.
He accompanies Rex most places when he is not working. Globie recently was diagnosed with Cushing's Disease and his monthly medication bill is expensive, but Rex is willing to make life comfortable for Globie until the time comes to say good-bye. I'm sure there will be sadness, but no regrets, because Rex knows he has been a good pet owner and no one knows it better than Globie.
Thanks to Rex and all of you wonderful pet owners – you know who you are.
"The dog lives for the day, the hour, even the moment." – Robert F. Scott
April
17, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Give It Time
About 18 months prior to becoming a volunteer, my daughter (10 at
the time) wanted a kitten for her birthday. Not having really much
experience with cats, I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect. I had
heard
that cats can be independent, the boss, don’t adjust well,
don’t like
other cats, etc. This can be true and that’s the chance you take
when
you choose to bring a feline into your home. Just as a dog you bring
home may be difficult to house break, bark a lot, get in the trash,
chew shoes, etc.No animal is perfect — but will provide you love and companionship and will accept you for you.
So,
we contacted YAAP, went to go look at a litter of kittens and picked
one out — we later named him Salem. Salem was not ready to come
home
for two more weeks. While my daughter and I were busy loving on the
kittens, my husband was hanging behind and the adult cats wanted his
attention. Long, story short, we left that day with an adult cat we
named Summer and were scheduled to pick up Salem in two weeks. The next
two weeks went great and our new cat fit in fine … well except
for the
fact she was easily startled and every time we would walk by her, she
would dart off. It took time for her to earn our trust. Then it was the
day for Salem to come home and of course we thought it would go great
...Time No. 1 when I could have considered giving Summer back to YAAP. Salem got to the house scared and Summer (who in the past two weeks had made our home her castle) greeted him with lots of hisses, snubs and batted at him. This went on for about 2 weeks and I’m thinking “this isn’t what I had in mind” and if she is going to be this mean to him ... well. By week three, she was treating him like he was one of her kittens and taking care of him. By week four, they played daily. Today, they are not best friends but they cohabit fine.
Time No. 2 I could have considered giving Summer back to the YAAP. By this time, Summer had decided she wasn’t too excited about playing with Salem anymore and also had decided she didn’t want to be bothered by a 3 year old. However, for some reason our 3 year old loved Summer and liked petting her. One Sunday afternoon, Summer was laying on our 3 year old’s bed and she went in there to pet her. She soon came out crying loudly. Long story, short — she got seven stitches on her face that day. I hadn’t taken out her claws yet as she was a master at getting outside (my mom calls her Houdini). Over the next two weeks, I did fight thoughts of giving her back to YAAP or taking out all of her claws. I was worried with her escaping skills she would get outside and find herself in a situation with another cat that would end badly. She soon proved that she needed to get her claws out by scratching me for no reason — and she liked me. She got all the claws from her four paws removed. She has honestly become a much more tolerant cat since.
Time No. 3 I could have considered giving Summer back to YAAP. As I said earlier — Summer gets out. Anyway, over the course of about two months during the fall, she brought in worms (from eating rabbits or something outside) and fleas. Wow, did that suck. But it is my responsibility as a pet owner to make sure she has flea control and is dewormed (she was dewormed but she needed a different kind).
Time No. 4 I could have thought about taking Salem back to YAAP. For the first few months Salem was with us, he often thought his designated place to go No. 2 was on the carpet in front of the fireplace — not sure why. We would watch for it and pick him up and put him in the litter box if we caught him and we would thoroughly clean the area and use odor remover. Once he broke that habit, he began thinking it was necessary to pee on the clean towels in the basket next to the dryer. That habit lasted about two months and is gone. He has been fireplace and clean towel pee and poop free for well over a year! Salem brings us daily joy and is a silly cat with funny habits.
We later got a third cat. Salem thought it was great. Summer about lost her mind. She walked around the house hissing and growling at everything all day long. I think she even hissed and growled in her sleep! She has since adjusted and they are friends.
Moral of the story ... please give any issues you may encounter time to correct themselves prior to making a decision to bring your cat back. If I hadn’t given the issues with Summer and Salem time, they would not be part of our family today. I have also learned a life skill of patience and acceptance. Also, choose personality over looks. You are probably wondering why would we keep such a cat as Summer? Summer is the family favorite by the non-cat lovers in the house. She just has something about her that we love. She is also the most lovable of all the cats and loves sleeping in our bed at night. Summer will not be going back to YAAP — she is right at home where she belongs. Also, if you saw the love and joy these two cats have provided for my daughter (now almost 13 and a YAAP volunteer) you too would think twice about bringing the cats back to YAAP. If you give your cat a chance, you too can experience the same love and joy as her.
NOTE: Kerry Lundstrom and her daughters Kaeli & Madison are volunteers at the Cat Sanctuary and live in Henderson. Recently we have had several cats returned by owners who have indicated that “things are not perfect.” So Kerry wanted to help educate new cat and kitten owners that it takes time and effort to have the “perfect” pet.
April 10 , 2009
A paws for pets
Just a Dog
By Gail
Nordlund
Judi and Harold Nordlund recently said good-bye to their beloved
schnauzer Phoebe.This was a special little dog that was given up 11 years ago because the owners had gotten new carpet. I know it sounds crazy, but, sadly, this happens all the time. But, in this case, Phoebe struck gold when Harold and Judi took her into their home and made her their "forever" dog. While mourning the loss of Phoebe, Judi decided to write her a letter to help her cope and she said it truly made her feel better. She agreed to let me share the letter with you and thought it might help others that lose a pet.
Dear Phoebe,
How I miss you! You were in our lives for 11 short years and in our hearts forever. I'll miss your constant presence, whether riding with me in the car, walking together in the park, following me from room to room and lying at the foot of the bed at night. I miss your playtime with Audrey, acting really tough, teeth showing, but tail wagging. Audrey misses you too. I miss your bathroom antics. Pulling the toilet paper across the room and opening up the door at shower time, letting all the cold air in. Brrr.
I miss your excitement at seeing brother Gary arrive and the daily walks to the barn with him and your happiness of the treat he gave you afterwards. Your tail never wagged more.
I miss your healthy days when you could run after the squirrels and play with Gail's dogs and see all that was around you.
I don't miss your twice daily insulin shots, your constant medical problems and your blindness.
But, I will always remember the days and weeks you were with me on my trips to Lincoln for radiation treatments. How it was such a comfort to have you there waiting patiently for me. You were my angel. You will always be my angel.
I'll see you at the Bridge,
Love, Judi
The following message is one worth sharing for those that do not understand the grief of losing a dog.
Just a Dog
From time to time people tell me, “Lighten up, it’s just a dog,” or, “That’s a lot of money for just a dog.” They don’t understand the distance traveled, time spent, or costs involved for “Just a dog.” Some of my proudest moments have come about with “Just a dog.” Many hours have passed with my only company being “Just a dog” and not once have I felt slighted. Some of my saddest moments were brought about by “Just a dog.” In those days of darkness, the gentle touch of “Just a dog” provided comfort and purpose to overcome the day.
If you, too, think it’s “Just a dog,” you will probably understand phrases like “Just a friend,” “Just a sunrise” or “Just a promise.” “Just a dog” brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust and pure unbridled joy. “Just a dog” brings out the compassion and patience that makes me a better person. Because of “Just a dog” I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly into the future. For me and folks like me, its not “Just a dog.” It’s an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past and the pure joy of the moment. “Just a dog” brings out what’s good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.
I hope that someday people can understand it’s not “Just a dog.” It’s the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being “Just a man or woman.”
So the next time you hear the phrase “Just a dog,” smile, because they “Just Don’t Understand.”
April
3, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
David Will Be Remembered
Today I met David.I don't know if this was his name or not, but I thought it was a noble and strong name and every cat deserves a name.
Today was a balmy Sunday morning I had returned from church when I received a call from the police department. They relayed a call that a cat was found on the south side of a residence and was not moving. I dread receiving these calls, I never know what to expect when I arrive. I asked if the police could meet me there in case I had difficulty in securing the cat. As I grabbed some towels and a carrier I said a quick prayer that this would be a happy ending.
When I arrived at the residence I found David lying under a bush. He indeed was not moving, but his eyes followed every move I made. As I knelt down, I reached out and stroked his head. He never raised his head, but he answered with a meow and his front paws began to knead. I gently lifted his body as I slid a towel under his front and back end. I took the carrier apart, and gently placed him in the bottom half. He seemed to know that I was there to help him. I could find no evidence of trauma, but something was causing his present condition. I called Dr. Jennifer and she agreed to meet me at the vet clinic.
I had placed him in the front seat and I continued to stroke his side as I drove to the vet. He was such a beautiful big guy. His ears were tattered on the edges, his fur was grimy and dull and his teeth were not white, showing his age as being an older cat. I knew he had been living on the streets for quite some time. He had that look. But I also knew that he had at one time been a family pet. He was neutered and he was declawed. His paws were big and even though he couldn't move his back legs, his front legs continued their kneading with every touch that he received. As Dr. Jennifer and I gently laid him on the examining table he was calm and affectionate. I knew what the news would be but I was hoping that I was wrong. I had only known this cat for approximately 20 minutes, but I knew I would not forget him anytime soon. Dr. Jennifer could find little to no feeling in his lower extremities. After careful consideration it was decided that the kindest and most compassionate thing to do was to let this gentle giant be released from his pain and suffering.
Today I said good-bye to David.
oday I saw another cat who was discarded when it was no longer convenient to keep him. He was left to fend for himself and even though he was a big cat, he would have a definite disadvantage by being declawed. The citizen who found him on their property “thought” they had seen him in the neighborhood at various times. I will never know why or how David ended up under some bushes, and left to die alone. I don't think he had been there long, it had rained the previous night and his coat was dry. His temp was very low so that could have been from the injury, thankfully it wasn't cold. I am sure he was nothing more than a gentle giant, with big declawed paws, and kind looking eyes. He was a “talker” as displayed when you stroked his side and talked to him, he answered back with his soft meow.
Today I found a “stray” cat; today I was able to ease his misery, he didn't die alone under a bush. He had a name, it was David. He will be remembered, probably not by his family who left him on the streets alone, or those that saw him living on the streets, but by me. I will remember David. I will remember his kneading paws, I will remember the look in his eyes. I will remember that although I can't save each and every cat or kitten, that I can make a difference in the lives of those cats who won't have that chance to come to the Cat Sanctuary and who won't have that opportunity for another “forever” home. Today David left this life, but he had a name and he didn't die alone. And most important, I truly believe there is a special place in the hereafter for all of the David's of this world.
March 13 , 2009
A paws for pets
Staying Grounded
By Gail
Nordlund
I can get in some of the worst predicaments sometimes.Recently, I was taking care of our rescue dog Reba and her puppies, while their foster parents, the Wahlmeier's were out of town. I enjoyed going out there and on this particular day, the puppies were out playing when I heard the unmistakable scream of a puppy in distress. I followed the frantic cries and it led me underneath the back porch and I could see a puppy with his head stuck in the fence, fighting to free itself. I had to crawl on my hands and knees, in a very small area, to reach him and when I did, I discovered it was little Bubba, the pup that looks like a collie. Also responding to his call, was his mother, Reba, who somehow got over the privacy fence to reach him on the other side. Reba settled down when I arrived and began to nuzzle Bubba's face as if to tell him it would be okay. I will never understand how they can get their heads into a fence and yet, it is next to impossible to get them back out. I turned him every which way, with no success. The more he fought the worse he choked and the fence would not budge. I had to hold him off the ground to keep him from strangling, while on my knees in a cramped area. Now, there was a time when this would have not been an issue for me, but those days are long gone and now it became a challenge.
Fortunately,
I had my cell phone in my pocket, so I called Kim Hart, our kennel
manager at Adopt a Pet and asked her to get some bolt cutters and
please come out and help us. As we waited, my thoughts drifted back to
my early days of rescue, when I was caring for puppies at my home. I
had a very similar situation with a puppy getting his head stuck in my
fence. He was choking so badly that I feared he might die, so I called
the fire department. I can still see Monte Robinson cheerfully arriving
and he became my hero that day as he cut the little guy free. But now, my legs were cramping and it seemed like an eternity, even though it wasn't, when I heard Kim's car pull into the driveway and soon she was there, beside Reba, cutting enough of the fence away to release little Bubba. As I slowly backed out from underneath the porch, I shared with Kim that I was getting too old for this sort of thing and gingerly rose to my feet. I checked Bubba over and he was fine and he happily ran to join his siblings at play. I have no doubts that I experienced more anxiety over this than he did. Kim and I found some chicken wire and fixed the area to ensure this would not happen again.
After I settled the puppies back into their pen and got Reba inside the fence again, it was time to leave. I felt mentally tired as I drove away from the Wahlmeier's home. When I reached the main road, I happened to glance to my right and down in a meadow stood four deer. I parked the car by the side of the road and quietly got out and watched them for about 10 minutes. That peaceful scene of tranquility brought me back to where I needed to be and instantly it calmed my anxious heart. My mind and spirit were now concentrating on the endless beauty of nature that is offered to us every day, and on this gift that I had just received. I gave thanks for how this day had turned out.
After watching the deer scamper off, I returned to my car. I felt refreshed and thought maybe I'm not too old yet to do animal rescue. I can continue to deal with animal injuries, people who abuse and neglect their pets, the frustration of law interpretation regarding animals, the endless abandonment of pets, the over breeding and many other issues, as long as I can stay grounded. And I can stay grounded by appreciating the joyful, simple pleasures of life, like the unexpected sighting of the deer, the wonderful pet owners out there that treat their animals with respect, the dedicated volunteers at Adopt a Pet, and the many people that support us.
Maybe I'm not too old, not yet. There is still work to be done.
Sadly, two of Adopt a Pet's rescue dogs crossed the Bridge this past week. A little poodle, Mama, that was fostered and adopted by Jerry and Elaine Waggoner and Phoebe, a schnauzer rescued and loved for many years by Harold and Judi Nordlund. More about these two at a later date.
Our thoughts are with them.
March
21, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Volunteers make the Cat
Sanctuary successful
Each week I try to pick a story about a cat or kitten
that has
entered the cat sanctuary, one that is a little unusual but as many
many of the cats coming to us, their stories are uneventful. They are
found in road ditches, school yards, under cars in parking lots, corn
fields, as far below as culverts, and as high as the tallest tree. Some
are injured, some are frightened, some are hostile while others reward
you with purrs and head butting. Some stay with us for years,
others
mere hours. There is every color, size, personality, long hair, short
hair, some are missing tails, eyes, ears or legs. Many are wary of
humans, while others are instantly at home with the volunteers.The one thing that NEVER varies is how our volunteers react to each and every cat that comes to us. The Cat Sanctuary is so fortunate that we have such dedicated and loyal volunteers. Each volunteer is unique in their special attributes, but the one common thread among them all is their love and dedication to the abandoned, abused, ill, injured, orphaned and relinquished cats and kittens that enter into the doors of the Cat Sanctuary.
Years ago when I founded the Cat Sanctuary, I had NO idea what I was getting myself into, much less that there would be the large numbers of cats coming into the sanctuary. What started off as a “temporary” shelter in my back yard has turned into a full time 24/7 venture. Again what started as a “temporary” band aid to help York Adopt a Pet with the cat population has turned into a life fulfillment that I didn't even know I wanted or needed. I realize today that this is a “venture” that gives one so much more in rewards than . Every time the phone rings with a request to take in a found cat on a gravel road or one that shows up on a doorstep, stuck up a tree, hiding in the bushes I have never thought “I don't want to do this any more”. There is always the curiosity in wondering what happened to this cat that they have suddenly found themselves in the dreaded status of a “stray cat”.
The Cat Sanctuary has also introduced me to so many wonderful caring people. It has opened the door to friendships and people that I probably would never have met. People who share the same desire to make a difference in a cat or kittens life. You all know who you are: Deb, Crystal, Judy, Charleen, Marilyn, Janelle, Kathy, Kerry, Diane, Glenda, Lora, Andrea, Shar, Kim, Lisa, AJ and let us not forget our younger volunteers; Kaeli, & Madison, daughters of Kerry; Kaylyn, Jacob & Marcus, daughter & sons of Lora and friend Hannah; Elexis & Chloe, daughters of Andrea. Some like Deb have been with me since the beginning, and others like Lora & Andrea have just joined our volunteer group. I have NEVER asked for additional help that I haven't received it. For each and every one, they seem to single out several cats that need more attention and they diligently work with those cats until they are well and ready for adoption. They are all willing to to give of themselves and it is not only greatly appreciated but the Cat Sanctuary simply could not exist if it weren't for these wonderful volunteers. Our community is a better place simply because these individuals give back to the community. Not every person appreciates or wants to have a cat or kitten in their household, but if one shows up on their front porch or a mother cat has a litter of kittens in their garage, they want to know that someone will take the cat and kittens. That's where the volunteers step up to make room for just one more. One of our favorites, Gary was adopted last week. We had him since Dec of 2007. He came to us as a scared, skinny & non friendly cat. He left us friendly, fat & a lovable guy. The volunteers all loved him, and will miss him, but they all agreed that this was a very happy day for Gary. Gary is our “poster cat”. He is what the Cat Sanctuary is all about. And the Sanctuary is all about the volunteers that day in and day out make a difference in all the cats & kittens that come into the Sanctuary. So on behalf of all of the cats through the years we salute the volunteers that make the Sanctuary the success that it is. Thank you!!!
March 13 , 2009
A paws for pets
Miracle Puppies
By Gail
Nordlund
Many of you might recall an article I did at the end of January
about the starving dog Reba and her puppies.Reba was rescued from an area about 20 miles east of Lincoln, in Otoe County, on January 15, along with her six grown pups from a previous litter. Reba was pregnant again and in desperate need of help. She needed nourishment badly and a warm place to have her puppies. Karen Walhmeier provided such a place and prepared her home for Reba to give birth. One week later, she had nine puppies and it was a miracle they all survived considering the condition of their poor mother . It was a joy to see Reba with her puppies cuddled up in warm blankets — something I know she had never experienced before.
Under the
watchful eye of Karen and her husband Ken, these puppies have
flourished. They have now been moved outside to a pen, but are let out
often to run in their fenced acreage. They are learning so many things
from Reba. And the Wahlmeiers’ three-legged dog, Charlie, is
having a
ball playing with them and teaching them a few manners. They are
beautiful puppies and each has a different look and personality. Karen
said she and Ken spend a lot of time just sitting out and watching
them. These puppies have had the best of everything and will make
wonderful family pets for whoever is lucky enough to adopt one. It
saddens me to think what would have happened to Reba if she had been
forced to have her puppies where she was living. They could never have
survived. Reba and her older pups were already on the brink of
starvation, so their future was bleak as well. This one rescue trip
made the difference in the lives of 16 animals and it is possible none
of them would have seen spring arrive this year had it not been so.
Thank goodness for the observant lady that spotted Reba eating corn in
the field and had the initiative to follow her home and to seek help
for her. Without her, none of this would have been possible. Three of
the six older pups have been adopted and three of Reba's little puppies
have been spoken for. All will have good lives, I am confident of that.A word of caution to pet owners. For those who do not already know, there is a Cocoa Mulch manufactured by Hershey's that smells good enough to eat. It contains an ingredient called Therbromine that is lethal to dogs and cats. If ingested, it could kill them. Several deaths of dogs have already occurred. If you are a pet owner, please avoid using this mulch in your yard.
A pet’s 10 commandments
1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.
2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.
3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well being.
4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I only have you.
5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however your treat me, I won't forget it.
7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.
9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.
10. On the difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.
March
6, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Bonnie: The best and the
worst of our society
If you have read the newspaper recently you will have seen the
worst and the best in human nature.The worst being the individual in Lincoln who tried to cool out his “hyper” cat by stuffing her into a box-like homemade bong while he smoked marijuana through a piece of garden hose attached to the plastic glass box in which he had stuffed the cat! The contraption that 6-month-old Shadow was stuffed inside measured 12 inches by 6 inches. Thankfully he is facing not only drug charges but also misdemeanor animal cruelty charges.
Shadow is now safe at the Capital Humane Society, and executive director Bob Downey said she was in good condition. My personal opinion is our laws are too soft on animal cruelty cases, and it is a proven fact that cruelty of animals is a front-runner for more serious deadly crimes against humans.
But that is a whole different story.
The best in human nature was shown to the little basenji mix Zak who was riding with his owner, truck driver Robert J. Shields of Poway, Calif., who died following a crash on Interstate 80 in Omaha. Little 1-year-old Zak had been traveling with his owner since he was 8 weeks old. Suddenly little Zak, who only had a minor scratch on his head, was left alone in a strange city and state. The Nebraska Humane Society let it be known they were looking for funds to get little Zak back to California. Soon the phones were ringing off the hook. They had more than 100 calls Tuesday offering to help. Some people even offered to pay the whole tab for Zak's ride home.
Zak left Omaha Wednesday afternoon and arrived in California at 8:40 p.m. Omaha time. An American Airlines employee arranged for a free fare and some of the donations were used for necessary vaccinations, shipping crate and a bed. Money left over from the donations would be saved to for the next stranded pet. The entire family of Mr. Shields were going to be on hand at the airport to welcome Zak home. Little Zak was lucky that so many caring compassionate people were concerned about his welfare. And what had become a family tragedy had at least a happy reunion with their loved one’s little faithful companion, Zak.
I know the worst and the best of our society
had a hand in the
story of little Bonnie. Bonnie is a dark muted calico and she came to
the sanctuary on Feb. 9, 2009. A very caring lady from east of York
called and said she had found little Bonnie huddled in her yard. She
was pencil thin, and her ears and tail had been frozen. Bonnie was
nervous around her other farm cats and she was afraid her cats would
scare her away and she would once again be on her own trying to stay
warm and finding food in the snow covered fields. Bonnie was very frail
and weak. When the kind Samaritan brought her in she was in a little
carrier. My first thought was this is the thinnest cat I have ever
seen. You could feel every rib and every vertebrae on her back. Her
ears were like crumpled paper, and very hard to the touch. The end of
her tail was missing and had the look of a frozen stick. The lady left
a donation to be used for her vaccinations. She was the best of our
society, she took the time to take this half frozen skinny little cat
out of the elements, gave her food and cared enough about her welfare
to see that she had a second chance. We don't know who the worst of our
society is, of course when they “dumped” little Bonnie in
the country
they wouldn't want their friends, neighbors or relatives to know of
their cowardly deed. They never gave a thought that this cat would have
a slow agonizing death, slowly freezing to death or with starvation. I
have actually had people tell me that they wanted to give the cat a
chance so they “dumped” it close to a farm house. Cats like
Bonnie
don't always have a chance to survive. I know that Bonnie was a house
cat, she is too friendly and home orientated not to have been in a
family setting. It took almost two weeks for Bonnie's ears to finally
fall off, another week before the raw and exposed flesh started to
heal. She is now showing signs of actually gaining weight. She will be
spayed soon, and when she is 100 percent she will be placed for
adoption. Her new home will have a warm bed, plenty of food and the
promise that she will not be abandoned in the country on a cold winter
day. She is one of the lucky ones.February 27 , 2009
A
"paws" for pets
Unsolved Mystery
By Gail
Nordlund
Sometimes
certain events occur that create a puzzle in your mind
that is hard to solve. This happened to me on Feb. 10. I received a
call regarding two found dogs at Walmart. They had them contained, so I
went right out to pick them up and discovered they were purebred pugs,
a male and a female, wearing brand new collars with no identification.
They were sweet and friendly and there had already been offers of
people wanting to take them. Of course, that was not an option, for I
felt sure they would be claimed in a very short time.
I could
also see that neither dog was altered, and I would never, ever let one
go without doing that to ensure that they would not be used for
breeding and profit making. Except, of course, to the rightful
owner.
But, that person seemed nowhere to be found.
I took them to my home, thinking I would only have them for a few hours. The police and sheriff departments were notified, but no one had reported losing them. I scanned them for microchips — none. After several days, I contacted the Nebraska Rescue Group, of which I am a member, to put the word out that I had them. I then went on line and reported them to Dog Detective and Petfinder to see if they were posted there. They were not.
In the meantime, these little guys were making themselves right at home with me, sleeping on the couch during the day and sneaking into my bed at night. They watched the squirrels and birds from the window and romped in the backyard with my dogs. They took control of the toy box and figured out a way to get onto my counter in search of afternoon snacks.
Yes, they were definitely settling in.
What really puzzled me was there was no sign of neglect or abuse. They had obviously been well treated. So why wasn't someone looking for them? We had several theories. One being that they belonged to a trucker who had a route to run and could not take time to look for them. No excuse ... he could have reported them missing before leaving. Since they were wearing new collars with no ID tags, my thought was that they had recently been acquired by someone, because the first thing a new owner will do is to buy their dog a new collar. Which then made me wonder if the dogs could possibly have been stolen and the old collars thrown away. If that were the case, they would probably not report them missing. One thing I am certain of is that they were not dumped, like so many that we find are. I do believe they came from a warmer climate, because I discovered several ticks on them and it is too early to have ticks in our area.
After 10 days of searching, I agreed to let them go to a wonderful rescue group in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. I met the transporter in Lincoln and she was so taken by them that she put in the first application to adopt them. They arrived in Cedar Rapids and were spayed and neutered the following day and have settled into their new foster home. She has named them Mugsy and Mattie and they have settled in beautifully, having already discovered where their garbage can is and how to spread the contents evenly throughout the house. Despite that, they adore them, just as I did. She is going to keep them two to three weeks and go over all the applications to decide where their new, forever home will be. I trust them to make the right choice.
But, for me, it is difficult to put closure on this rescue. It is an unsolved mystery to me. I will always wonder if there is someone out there looking for them. But, we do what we can, in the best interest of the dogs. I know they are in good hands and will find a wonderful home together.
I want so badly to tell their original owners, "They're okay ... don't worry."
I could
also see that neither dog was altered, and I would never, ever let one
go without doing that to ensure that they would not be used for
breeding and profit making. Except, of course, to the rightful
owner.
But, that person seemed nowhere to be found.I took them to my home, thinking I would only have them for a few hours. The police and sheriff departments were notified, but no one had reported losing them. I scanned them for microchips — none. After several days, I contacted the Nebraska Rescue Group, of which I am a member, to put the word out that I had them. I then went on line and reported them to Dog Detective and Petfinder to see if they were posted there. They were not.
In the meantime, these little guys were making themselves right at home with me, sleeping on the couch during the day and sneaking into my bed at night. They watched the squirrels and birds from the window and romped in the backyard with my dogs. They took control of the toy box and figured out a way to get onto my counter in search of afternoon snacks.
Yes, they were definitely settling in.
What really puzzled me was there was no sign of neglect or abuse. They had obviously been well treated. So why wasn't someone looking for them? We had several theories. One being that they belonged to a trucker who had a route to run and could not take time to look for them. No excuse ... he could have reported them missing before leaving. Since they were wearing new collars with no ID tags, my thought was that they had recently been acquired by someone, because the first thing a new owner will do is to buy their dog a new collar. Which then made me wonder if the dogs could possibly have been stolen and the old collars thrown away. If that were the case, they would probably not report them missing. One thing I am certain of is that they were not dumped, like so many that we find are. I do believe they came from a warmer climate, because I discovered several ticks on them and it is too early to have ticks in our area.
After 10 days of searching, I agreed to let them go to a wonderful rescue group in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. I met the transporter in Lincoln and she was so taken by them that she put in the first application to adopt them. They arrived in Cedar Rapids and were spayed and neutered the following day and have settled into their new foster home. She has named them Mugsy and Mattie and they have settled in beautifully, having already discovered where their garbage can is and how to spread the contents evenly throughout the house. Despite that, they adore them, just as I did. She is going to keep them two to three weeks and go over all the applications to decide where their new, forever home will be. I trust them to make the right choice.
But, for me, it is difficult to put closure on this rescue. It is an unsolved mystery to me. I will always wonder if there is someone out there looking for them. But, we do what we can, in the best interest of the dogs. I know they are in good hands and will find a wonderful home together.
I want so badly to tell their original owners, "They're okay ... don't worry."
February
20, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Onima used up her
“9” lives on Friday the 13th
Many people are superstitious and think that you can have bad
luck on Friday the 13th.In a sense, Dee Madena from Montana could attest to this, but then again she may think it was the luckiest day of her life. February the 13th landed on a Friday and Dee was on her way to Montana after spending the winter with her son & daughter living in San Antonio and Austin Texas. She delayed her trip for several days to avoid the storm center that passed through Oklahoma with the deadly tornados.
As she approached York she was in York's heaviest snow fall of the season. She stopped at a fast food close to the interstate and made the decision to travel on north thinking that she would soon be out of the heaviest snowfall. As she headed north on 81 north of York in attempting to pass a slow moving vehicle she suddenly saw a pickup heading directly towards her. As she relayed to me later things happened so quickly and her greatest concern was her Siamese cat Anima who was traveling with her. The paramedics promised to get in touch with someone to come and retrieve Onima from the totaled vehicle. I missed the call from the Fire Department so they contacted Kim Hart. She and her husband Tom, was able to find Onima on the floor of the passenger seat buried under piles of articles. Kim got in touch with me and brought Onima to my house. She was in a soft sided carrier and when I got her out I checked her over to see if she had any obvious injuries to my great surprise she seemed fine, no injuries and although she was shaking (probably from the cold as well as the shock of the collision and the ride back into town behind the tow truck) she seemed fine. I put her in my office with food/water/and cat litter and left her alone to get her "composure". As typical of a Siamese her "composure" returned shortly and she was a snippy hissy unhappy cat. I was glad that I had checked her over when I did because I couldn't get within a foot of her without her very loud yowl and showing me her two very long canines.
When I talked to Dee in her hospital room and she asked if her cat was really okay, I assured her that she was very vocal, very haughty, and a typical Siamese. She laughed and said, "Yes that's my Onima, a real drama queen."
I just knew that I would respect her personal space as long as she gave me verbal warning and showing her two very long and did I mention sharp canines telling me to stay my distance. So YES I can take a hint.
Her son from Austin called shortly after I received Onima and I assured him that I would keep Onima until he and his sister could arrive to take their mother back to Texas. Dee was dismissed late Saturday afternoon and came immediately to pick up her beloved Onima. Dee and her children were so appreciative of all that was done for them, she told me that the paramedics were wonderful and she said she was so thankful that Onima was retrieved from the car and kept safe until she could come and take her home.
Her van was totaled and she was so very very lucky to have survived such a horrendous crash. Just as lucky was Onima. Had she not been in this soft style of kennel she more than likely would not have withstood the crash, and had she been in a plastic style, it surely would have cracked open and if she would have survived the crash she may have been frightened enough to escape from the van either at the crash site, while being towed into York or most certainly while sitting at the tow yard while waiting for someone to come and retrieve her. Dee said that she had her secured in the back floor behind the driver side. Onima ended up on the front floor of the passenger side. Items from the back had flown forward and completely covered the floor, passenger seat clear to the roof. So for Dee & Onima what was bad luck certainly turned into good luck. Dee's injury's although serious were not life threatening and except for Onima's fear & loss of composure….and probably total allotment of 9 lives, Friday the 13th turned out to be their luckiest day. As they pulled out of my drive way, they waved for as long as I could see them. I felt good, I felt that a tragedy had been averted and it was a very happy end. A mother was going home with her two children, and her special cat was going home with her. This day was Valentine's Day, a day to show love compassion and caring to our family, friends, neighbors and even to total strangers in need of medical care and emotional support.
I think that all 3 were shown here in York Nebraska to a stranger passing through our City. And not to forget the same care was given to her family pet that was part of her family. Onima may not have showed her appreciation but hey Onima is a cat. Cats can and do have attitudes, that’s why we are their slaves and they allow us to do just that.
February 13 , 2009
A
"paws" for pets
Abandoned dogs everywhere
Its getting
hard to keep up.Our shelter is full. We are finding dogs everywhere. Not a day goes by when we do not receive a call on an abandoned dog or one that someone has lost.
Some situations are gut wrenching. This past Saturday, a caring young man, Josh Hoffman, noticed a dog lying in the ditch about five miles west of York. He stayed with the dog until I arrived. As I drove up, I was horrified to see the condition of this beautiful male English Pointer. He was so thin that every bone protruded through his skin and so weak that he could barely walk. Josh said the poor thing was trying to chew on a rock. We loaded him up and I took him to my house. I tried to feed him, but he would not eat. I put the food into my hand and got him to eat a little at a time, but he knew when it was too much for his stomach to handle and after less than a cup, turned his head away. I continued hand feeding him small amounts every few hours and by Sunday night he was able to eat out of the bowl and his appetite became enormous.
He was ready to eat anything in sight. Now here is
the
strange part about this dog. When found, he was perfectly clean, his
ears were clean, so this was not an outside dog or a dog on the run. He
wanted in my house, which tells me that he probably had been a house
dog of someone. So, whoever had him obviously, deliberately,
starved
him and then for some reason, abandoned him to die. Who in the world
would withhold food from such a gentle and beautiful dog? Or from any
animal for that matter.There are sick people out there, folks, and we see the results of their cruel acts on God's creatures all too frequently.
All rescues are different ... some good, some sad.
We did have some very good rescue stories this past two weeks. One involved a 14-year-old schnauzer found in Fairmont, covered with mud and stickers, and obviously had been on a survival mission. He had a rabies tag and my sister, Judi, spent a lot of time trying to track down the owner, but kept running into problems with old phone numbers and dead ends everywhere. She didn't give up until she eventually found the owner in Lincoln. The dog had run off while she was visiting friends in Goehner and it had been over a week and she feared he was dead.
Somehow, it ended up in Fairmont. We are guessing that someone picked it up ... maybe on I-80 and when passing near Fairmont, left it there.
But, since dogs can't talk, we can only surmise how the events took place. I am told the reunion of the dog and his owner was a joy to watch and many tears were shed. That's our reward.
The other was Kevin Bellows, who lost his German Shepherd for three weeks. He put ads in the paper and tried calling everyone, but the dog was nowhere to be found. Some good Samaritans were traveling and spotted the dog, who by then was a little shy about coming to anyone. They opened up their car door and that is all it took. He willingly jumped in. The dog was brought to us and Kevin was notified to see if it might be his dog and much to our delight, it was. Our kennel manager, Kim Hart, said the dog was so excited to see Kevin that he couldn't even fill out the paper work as the dog was jumping all over him. That was a long three weeks for his dog, but again, a happy ending.
Another recent incident happened when travelers from South Dakota inadvertently drove off, leaving their dog behind, after filling up with gas at Petro. They were long gone before realizing the dog was not with them. They returned this past weekend to pick him up at our shelter. This dog, that had been moping all week, did everything but turn somersaults when he saw his owner. Another joyous moment.
These are the lucky dogs. Someone cares about them. But what about all of the other dogs we are finding that no one seems to be looking for? What is wrong with people? I hear the statement, "It's the economy. People can't afford to keep their pets." That is a cop out. There is NEVER an excuse for abandoning a pet, not when there are shelters everywhere. It's pure laziness. The other night I got awakened in the wee hours with someone that found a poodle. It was brought to me and it cried all night, depriving me of a good night's rest. Upon returning the dog to her owners the following day, I got no response from them at all. No thank you for keeping our dog ... nothing. I have a feeling we will find this dog again.
As for Will, the name given the English Pointer, he is doing well in foster care at sister Judi's. He has regained his strength, is eating like a horse and the pounds are piling on. He has been vet checked and when the time is ready will be made available for adoption. He is loving life ... something he probably had not experienced before. I cannot express enough the need to have an ID on your pets. Write your phone number on the collar and have tags or get them microchipped. Your dog will then be able to be reunited with you.
If you love your dog, you will do this.
February
6, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
Truman, a survivor and a
really neat Cat!
Several times a week I receive updates on cats and kittens that
have been adopted through the cat sanctuary. Today I received an update
on Truman who is a survivor and a really neat Cat!
He wasn't
adopted through the Cat Sanctuary but he was "rescued" by a series of
events. He was involved in a car accident on Sept. 18, 2006 near
Lexington NE. His owners, Elana & her sister Abby were
traveling
through Nebraska on their way to their home in Cleveland Ohio. Elana
lost control of her car and it rolled 5 times bursting into flames.Her beloved dog Tegan died on impact and her 4 year old cat Truman was "missing". Elana & her sister were rescued with just the clothes on their backs, all of their possessions were burned along with their vehicle. Thankfully their injuries were minor, and they were transferred to the hospital in Lexington. Their family immediately drove to NE to pick them up from the hospital, and they searched the scene of the accident for hours trying to find Truman the cat, but he was nowhere to be found. Elana was devastated that her beloved cat was missing. She was mourning the loss of her dog and cat and her family said that she was depressed and devastated and her family felt helpless to help her. And this is where the story continues to unfold.
A woman from Iowa was following Elana's vehicle and witnessed the accident. She actually saw a cat being thrown from the rolling vehicle and when she approached the cat, she scooped up the limp cat thinking that he was either dead or was dying. Not really thinking it through she didn't alert the authorities or anyone else that she was removing the cat.
She just knew that if he were injured he wouldn't last long with all the traffic in and around the accident. She continued on towards Iowa with Truman the cat lying on the floor of her car. While stopping at the York exit to buy gas she asked the gas clerk if she knew a shelter that she could drop off a cat that she found at the scene of an accident "somewhere" along the interstate. Unfortunately not being familiar with Nebraska she couldn't remember where the accident happened, only that it was between York and the Colorado border. The clerk immediately said that she was sure the York Adopt a Pet Cat Sanctuary would take him. Soon Debbie Sanders was on her way to the convenience store to pick up the cat. She took the traumatized feline to the vet who found the only thing wrong with the accident survivor was a little mud in his mouth and nose.
When I was given this information I just knew that "somewhere, someone" was desperately trying to find their cat. I started calling different agencies, various county sheriff's offices, the State Patrol and veterinarians along the interstate trying to find a report of who was involved in a roll-over accident on the Interstate on Sept. 18th. It took several hours but I wasn't going to give up. Someone had to have the information and finally it paid off. Narrowing it down I called the Lexington Sheriff's office.
They said yes there had been a roll over accident on the interstate but due to the privacy law the sheriff's office couldn't release any information. I asked them if they could call these people and ask them if they were missing a cat. They assured me that they would call them. Elana's father Alan told me later that his wife had received a call from the sheriff's office in Lexington NE and told her that they had been called about a cat that might have been lost in an accident, alive and well at York Adopt-A-Pet Cat Sanctuary. He said that his wife broke down and cried for the first time during this whole disaster. They couldn't believe that Alana's cat Truman had actually been rescued and was being cared for by total strangers.
I remember the phone call, when Alana's mother called. She put Elana on the phone and she was very emotional, she said that her cats name was Truman and that he had some funny short hair on his back. I was sure it had to be Truman, but I took pictures and immediately e-mailed them to her. It was him.
She said "are you sure he's okay?" I told her that he was fine, but he was a finicky eater and she told me that he would only eat a certain brand of cat food. So when I bought his "brand" of food and called him Truman, he was like a different cat. This is a cat that actually knew his name. Elana's father, Alan booked the next flight to Eppley, and Bob and I loaded "Truman" in the car and headed to Omaha.
It was quit a reunion. Alan was so grateful that Truman had been rescued and returned to his daughter. Alan had originally planned to fly home, but instead he rented a car and drove straight through thinking that it might be too upsetting for Truman to fly.
Today I heard that Truman is doing great. We weren't involved in his adoption but we were involved in reuniting a cat to a young girl separated by a near tragic accident 1,000 miles from her home. That is very rewarding; to know that we made a difference in both a young woman and a cat named "Truman" a really neat cat.
January 30 , 2009
A
"paws" for pets
Angels Everywhere
By Gail
Nordlund
Imagine yourself driving down a country road near
your home and
seeing a skeleton of a dog, in a field with some cattle, scavenging for
corn left over from harvest. The person who witnessed this stopped her
vehicle and coaxed the dog to her car and was horrified to see that she
was pregnant. She gave her some dog treats that she had in her car and
went home to pick up some dog food for her. But when she returned, the
dog was gone. After driving around, she finally spotted her traveling
down a long lane to a farm house, so she followed her home. To her
surprise, she was greeted by six more dogs ... all light brown, like
her, but younger and each showed obvious signs of starvation. Her
25-pound sack of dog food was gone in minutes. A man came out of
the
house and said the dogs were his, but he didn't want them anymore so he
just quit feeding them. He explained the six younger ones were her pups
from eight months ago. He gave her permission to find homes for them if
she wanted to.This all took place in Otoe county and the poor lady did not know who to turn to for help. She sought advice from her friends and one of them happened to be a lady that came to our Gala Adopt a Pet fund raiser last spring. Her name is Claire Windle from the Seward area and has rescued many dogs herself.
Claire contacted me and I was willing to help, but I knew finding room for seven dogs would be a problem. I told her I would work on a plan and in the meantime I supplied them with plenty of dog food to give them immediate help. My biggest concern was the pregnant one. After contacting various groups, a rescue from Columbus agreed to take four of the younger ones. The lady that found them was going to take one for herself. I agreed to take the pregnant dog and a young male.
Now, the really hard part was finding a foster home for mama to have her puppies in. I called Karen Wahlmeier, who lives outside of York and she never hesitated. She said she would love to do it and even offered to go with me to pick them up. So, on Jan. 15, we drove about 20 miles east of Lincoln, following directions to the farm. It was bitter cold that day and as we drove in, we saw two young dogs in the lane waiting to greet us. We got out and gave them treats and then over a hill came the mama dog and four more young ones trailing behind. I felt a terrible sadness as I looked at her sweet face and beautiful soft eyes. Her belly so swollen with puppies and her ribs and back bones were protruding. Yet she was calm and well mannered and took her treats gently. I knew right away that she was a good dog — a special one in fact.
We looked around and there was nowhere on that farm where she could have safely given birth to her puppies and had adequate shelter from the cold and snow. We loaded mama and the male pup in the car and headed back to York. Both dogs were perfect travelers, never making a sound.
Our first stop was Gloystein Vet Clinic where they graciously bathed both dogs for us and we got their vaccinations. Then to Karen's — the end of our journey. Karen had already named them Reba and Fred and she had a whelping pen, in the house, ready for Reba. Reba crawled into her pen, experiencing for the first time, what a soft blanket feels like. She snuggled down into it and went to sleep.
One week later, we are proud to announce that Reba has given birth to nine beautiful puppies, all doing well. She is a perfect mother. We were told she is a Vizsla/Collie cross and that the father of the pups is a yellow lab. I have no doubt that these puppies, under her care, and with Karen socializing them, will be exceptional dogs. They will be available for adoption is about five or six weeks. I can sleep better at night knowing that we saved Reba's puppies from freezing to death and the other dogs from a miserable existence.
Thank goodness for the lady who saw Reba in the field and chose to do something about it. Thanks to Claire for contacting us and to the Columbus shelter for taking the four pups and thank you Karen for taking such good care of Reba, her puppies and Fred.
It tells me ... there are angels everywhere.
Reminder : February is ADOPT A DOG MONTH and Adopt a Pet has plenty to choose from.
Don't shop — adopt
Janurary
23, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
How do you remember all
these cats names?
If you take a quick look at the attached picture you will see cats, lots of cats busily eating their evening meal. I have to smile, on cold winter nights after I have dished up their Iams hard food they all come running.
It matters not if their dish was full to begin
with, just the rustle of the scoop going into the 50 gal. barrel of dry
food and they all act as though they haven't eaten for several days. It
is a chorus of crunches as some dozens and dozens of cats begin their
evening meal. I remember visiting my great aunt & uncle's farm and
when Francis fed his pigs their daily pails of cracked corn these are
the same sounds that those dozen or so of pigs made. It is amazing how
much these dainty little cats sound just like these 100 pound plus pigs
as they ate their corn. People ask me all the time, "How do you
remember all of these cats' names?"Well it helps when you take care of them several hours a day, 7 days a week. I admit that I color tag some of the black, tabbies and torte cats. But usually there is something that sets them apart. Let me introduce you to some of the cats that are pictured and you will understand why I can remember their names & stories.
Amy is a young tabby & white cat. She was just a baby kitten found with her 3 siblings last summer in a dumpster in Waco. Her other 2 sisters were adopted quite quickly and Amy has spent her whole life here at the sanctuary. She was recently spayed and is a clean cat, her favorite past time is grooming herself, preferably in a sunny spot. Shey Shey was relinquished by her owner last May when she went to live in an assisted living residence. It took her some time to adjust, but she has settled in and she is a mellow loving cat. Herbie is a neutered male, long hair yellow & white. He and 7 other cats were rescued from a camper where they lived in cramped and unsanitary conditions. He is a middle aged guy and very tolerant of younger and more aggressive cats. Next is Alicia, she was found December 17th on a country road near Waco. The young girl who brought her to me said she was cold and very hungry. We had her spayed and her immune system being lowered; she developed an upper respiratory and is just now getting her full health back. She is such a beautiful long hair yellow & white cat. Ruthie came to us on December 30th. The phone rang about 11:00 PM and it was the York Police Department. They had a citizen that called and said this cat was trying to get into their front door. So a little after 11:00 PM, Ruthie was brought to my front door by a police officer. She is so affectionate and has the largest fluffiest tail that I have ever seen on a cat. I wonder what circumstances put her outside on such a cold night, but will probably never know. Connie was another cat that was picked up by the York Police Dept in October. She was one of our many black cats and thankfully she was adopted last week to a couple from Lincoln who said that she was just the perfect cat for them. Caitlan is a gorgeous calico short hair. She was found Dec. 1st north of the Ethanol plant. She has a perfect triangle on her nose. She loves to be held and as soon as she is picked up she starts to purr.
Patience was brought to us from Geneva in April of last year. She had 5 babies when she arrived and was such a good little mother. One Sunday morning I noticed that she didn't want the kittens to nurse and when I looked closer I was shocked. She had these HUGE abysses on her chest. I rushed her to the vet clinic immediately and they cleaned the wound and put her on antibiotics. I couldn't believe that this little cat had this painful open wound on her chest and she was so tolerant with her five hungry babies. Her name was so appropriate; Patience seemed to be made just for her. All 5 of her babies have been adopted, and now Patience waits for her family.
So as you can see, it is easy to remember these cats' names. How could you forget, a mother of 5 who suffered silently with a massive abysses on her chest. Or a little black cat named Connie. They each have their own personalities, that little "something" that set them apart from all the others. And most important as you can see by the picture, they all come from different circumstances, different ages, sizes & personalities, but they have taught me that even though they are all different, they all share their space and time here at the Cat Sanctuary. They are tolerant of one another, they are accepting. It is a lesson that we can all learn from.
January 16 , 2009
A
"paws" for pets
A Paws for Pets: Boston
Terrier, The Little American Gentleman
By Gail
Nordlund
Every year during the holiday season, I receive a
monetary
donation for Adopt a Pet from Jim and Deanna Kordik of Lincoln.
in
February of 1996, they adopted a young Boston Terrier that I had
rescued and was fostering at my home. He was a sweet little guy
and I
was very protective of him and particular in choosing his forever home.
After meeting the Kordiks I was convinced that they were the
ones.
That was thirteen years ago and each year, accompanying the
donation,
I get a nice letter from them telling me about Gizmo and how he
is
doing. I am told that he basically runs the house and is healthy,
despite his failing eyesight. He was not particularly fond of
their
cat, until their home had a fire and they had to share a bedroom at the
Kordik's daughter's home.Cat and dog soon bonded and eventually ended up sleeping together. He travels everywhere with them and Deanna said he patiently tolerates the drive across Nebraska, but as soon as the odor of the mountain pines reaches his nostrils, he sits up and does not want to miss a thing. She added, " Thank you for allowing him to accompany us through life. We will be forever grateful. He has been such a joy for us."
Of course, the joy is mine. To place a dog in such a wonderful home is the ultimate for me. Boston Terriers are such special little dogs. They have delightful dispositions, and are easy to keep - very little grooming, no odor and little or no shedding.
I had a Boston Terrier myself, at the time I adopted Gizmo to the Kordiks. He, too, was a rescue dog . I called him Smooch. I can remember so well the day I received a call from the Bradshaw town man. He told me he had picked up a stray that had been running the streets of town for about a week and he couldn't bear to destroy him. He agreed to bring him to my home and when he arrived I watched as he opened up the cage in the back of his truck.
To my surprise, there sat this little guy smiling back at me - a purebred Boston Terrier. I must admit, this certainly exceeded my expectations of what I thought would be in that cage.
My Shar-Pei's accepted him right away and his pleasant personality made him a favorite with all of the Adopt-A-Pet dogs that I fostered in the years ahead. There wasn't a dog that didn't like Smooch.
If I brought home a timid or abused dog, it was Smooch that offered some comfort and soon put them at ease in their new, safe surroundings.
Smooch made the move with me to my present home in 1998 and lived here until 2002 when he crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. He was here to welcome Angel and Kunta into my home and made them feel a part of the family. Angel was a gentle dog and Smooch adored her. Kunta was a pup and more of a challenge , but Smooch made every attempt to keep up with him and his playful pestering. I'm sure Smooch was at the bridge waiting for Angel when she crossed over last month.
Smooch was a kind little dog, so I am not surprised when the Kordiks tell me how much they love their Gizmo. I think anyone that has owned a Boston Terrier would share the same feeling. It brings to mind, a quote I heard recently.
"It came to me that every time I lose a dog, they take a piece of my heart with them. And every new dog who comes into my life, gifts me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough, all the components of my heart will be dog, and I will become as generous and loving as they are."
—Author unknown
Janurary
9, 2009
A 'paws' for pets
The story of a black cat
named Timber
ffffff Her mother and all six siblings
have been adopted. Timber has not. It isn’t because she
doesn’t have a
beautiful slick black coat or a sweet natured personality. It
isn’t
because she hides when prospective new families come to look at the
cats and kittens. Nor is it because she is too aggressive in trying to
get the attention of the new families. She is just a sweet black cat
who is very patient as she waits for her forever home.
There are
no answers to why she is still with us. I only know that Timber came to
us in May of 2004, yes that is correct, 2004. It will soon be May of
2009 and that means that Timber has spent her entire life living at the
Cat Sanctuary. That is the reality of a no kill shelter. That is what
makes the Cat Sanctuary such a special place for the throwaway cats and
kittens of our area. We don’t give up on these cats; we
don’t mark
their lives in days, weeks, months or even years. And being the shelter
that we are, Timber hardly knows that she has been living in a rescue
shelter. She has grown from a gangly little black kitten to a sleek fat
black cat. She has spent her summer afternoons napping in the shade of
the flower gardens, in the fall she has chased the falling leaves, in
the spring she has dug up petunia plants sometimes as quickly as I can
plant them, and in the winter months she has found a warm cat bed to
sleep away the cold winter months in the warm and cozy cat sanctuary.
She may have been passed over time and again from being adopted, but
she doesn’t realize it, she thinks she is special and to us she
is very
special. She is not our oldest cat, but she has been here the longest.
Each of the cats or kittens that come to us is special. They may come to us in a miraculous fashion as I wrote about Miracle Baby two weeks ago or in a quiet way as with Timber. But they are greeted with enthusiasm and compassion and if their stay is brief then we all celebrate their quick adoption, but if they are with us for years, then we treat them as family. And they are family. People ask me frequently how do I care for cats that are here for a year or more and then adopt him or her out. As I have said before EASILY and HAPPILY. I have cared for these cats and have sheltered them until their time has come to be adopted. I would be selfish if I didn’t wish a home for each of the cats that have been with us for so long.
And I often wonder where Timber would be if she and her mother and six siblings didn’t have the Cat Sanctuary to take them in. That is why it is imperative to have our new shelter built. York Adopt a Pet has rescued and cared for dogs and cats that probably number into the thousands in the years that we have been in existence. The Cat Sanctuary has been located in my back yard since 1998. In the year 2000 when I started to keep records we handled 103 cats and kittens. In 2008 the numbers have grown to 546. Thankfully our adoptions have kept up with the number of intake cats, but we need an established “volunteer” friendly building that will ensure that this tradition will continue. York Adopt a Pet is based on a tradition of caring for animals with compassion and dedication.
So as I have written this story on Timber; who will continue to wait for her forever home in the safety of the Cat Sanctuary, I also ask on her behalf to please help York Adopt A Pet fulfill our promise to not only Timber but to all the animals of York and our surrounding area. Please make a donation to our building fund. Help us to fulfill the dream of a continuation of York Adopt a Pet for the future generations to come. Help us to ensure that we will always be here for not only Timber but for Sky, Rascal, Mom Mom and Prudence.
It is truly the animals that will benefit from your donation. Just as Timber has been cared for since 2004, so will the cats and kittens that will cross our threshold in 2009.
LaMoine Roth
PS — For those who read Miracle Baby two weeks ago, you will be happy to know she was adopted this week!
January 2 , 2009
Sadie, smarter than her owners
By Gail Nordlund
I haven't seen the movie " Marley and Me", but I did read the book and in my mind, John and Jenny Grogan were the most patient and understanding dog owners on the planet. They loved their yellow lab, Marley, unconditionally and worked through the bad times and relished in the good.
The mischievous behavior of some dogs can often bring a pet owner to his knees with discouragement.
And, sadly, too many times, frustration takes over and the owner lashes out and the dog is the unfortunate recipient of multiple beatings as an attempt to curb his behavior. You cannot train a dog with violence. If you have gotten to that point with your dog, then it is time for you to back off..take a deep breath..and reassess your role as a pet owner. Many people acquire a dog and have no idea how to train it or any knowledge of what can be expected of it. You must educate yourself if you are going to train your dog properly. Do your homework. Consider your present situation before getting one. Many factors to consider are your age, or the age of your children, the size of your yard, your work schedules, how much time you are able to give to a dog, can you financially care for one, and last, but not least...the breed.
I've been around dogs all of my life and I love them all, but without a doubt, there are some breeds that would not work for me to have at this time of my life. Being a senior citizen, I prefer a dog that is easy to handle and one that does not demand my constant attention.
A good example is a border collie named Sadie that I dog sat for over a month. Sadie was a beautiful dog and highly intelligent, as most border collies are. I loved her spirit and she challenged me ...she was fun. Sadie was on her fourth owner.
She had been given away twice and dumped the third time. The lady that rescued her recognized the problem. Sadie, literally, was too smart for her previous owners. They viewed her as incorrigible - untrainable, when in reality, they were not giving her enough to do. She was always one step ahead of them. As with many naive pet owners, they did not understand the time and energy you must give to a border collie. In reality, a border collie is a working dog..not always suitable for a pet. Sadie kept me busy the month I had her. We walked every day and I would let her run off leash. We played fetch with the ball. I played soccer with her..she was good ! In the evenings when I was ready to relax and watch a little TV, there was Sadie , standing in front of me, with a ball in her mouth. There were no breaks with this dog. A border collie would NOT be a good breed for me. I just don't have that kind of energy anymore. Even so, I missed her terribly when she left to go home.
Animal Planet channel recently had a good series called DOGS 101. It profiled numerous breeds and would be an excellent resource for someone looking to get a dog. Maybe it will be repeated. You can also research the breeds on the internet and it would be worth your time to find the dog that would fit best into your lifestyle.
Never overlook the possibility of getting an older dog. If you don't have time to train one, there are many mid age to older dogs in the shelters that are already housetrained and have said goodbye to their earlier bad habits. I find it sad when someone relinquishes a senior dog. Their chance for adoption is slim. All they want is to live out their lives quietly and comfortably and they make excellent pets for older people...but there are just not enough good homes for them all.
And, once again, I cannot stress enough, NOT to purchase a highly priced puppy from a pet store. They have come from a puppy mill. If you want to purchase a registered purebred, seek out a reputable breeder - your vet can help you with that.
No responsible breeder will put their puppies in a pet store. And it is foolish to pay the inflated prices they charge when you can get a good one at a much reduced cost.
Personally, I will always recommend a shelter dog. Statistics show that 25 % of all shelter dogs are purebreds. The shelter dogs are the most grateful, loving and often well behaved and most of all, they need a home. In many shelters, their time is limited...the clock is ticking.
December,
2008
By
LaMoine Roth
The
Story of
little "Miracle
Baby"………………………
Ihave
experienced many things in life that have made me know that
miracles do happen. Some big and some rather small, but when these
things occur there is usually no easy explanation. Such was the
experience of Miracle Baby. On December 8, York was expecting several
inches of snow, wind and ice. I was called a little before noon from
the manager at a motel close to the interstate on south highway 81. We
had been setting live traps to catch some cats that had been living
behind the local businesses. We had trapped
several kittens that we were able to adopt and thankfully a family
north of York took some of the adult cats to live their lives out in
their outbuildings on their farmstead. They were away from the busy
traffic and were guaranteed a roof over their heads and a pan full of
cat food. Something that these cats had never experienced. On this
particular day Bob loaded up two live traps, I grabbed two cans of wet
cat food to bait the traps. When we arrived behind the motel I
immediately noticed a small black cat lying motionless on a pile of
lumber. When I reached it, I thought it was deceased but when I started
to pick it up it made a horrible pitiful sound between a groan and a
howl. Every little shallow breath it took he would make this cry that
sounded so painful. I wrapped him in a blanket and had Bob hold him
until I could get the traps set. I told Bob that we needed to go to
Gloysteins and have this little kitten put out of its suffering. As we
pulled out of the parking lot and as I was holding the kitten he had
became ominously quiet and I said "you don't need to rush, he has
died". Bob said, no I think he actually died while I was holding him.
He took one deep breath and he stopped breathing. I opened the blanket
and automatically started to pet him. I thought how sad that we
couldn't have found him sooner. I was petting his thin little body when
suddenly he took a deep breath and once again let out this errie
cry. Bob almost lost control of the truck, he said "what was
that?" I
said, I think it is just a body reflex, I have seen this before when I
have held these little kittens as they give up the fight and go to
eternal sleep. I just continued to stroke this little black baby, when
I thought I detected a slight rise in his chest. I started pressing on
his chest as I petted him and slowly he began a shallow breathing. His
body was so cold, as soon as I got home I grabbed a heating pad turned
it on high and laid him flat, turning his body every 2 to 3 minutes to
warm both sides. All this while he watched me with unblinking gold
eyes. I started dropping small drops of pedialite and to my surprise he
actually started to swallow even though most ran down his neck. After
an hour, he raised his head and he was so weak it bobbed up and down
like a puppet. I have a tiny little spoon and I started to spoon AD cat
food into his mouth and again he actually swallowed. By evening he was
able to stand and after pedialite, kitten formula, and AD his little
pitiful cry had turned into a soft purring and his little paws were
slowing kneading his blanket. He had a long way to go, his little
backbone was razor sharp from starvation, he had an infected eye, and
he was weak, but he was a survivor.
Today is Christmas Eve, and I am so happy to announce that little Miracle Baby' body is filled out, his eyes are bright, his meow is strong and healthy. He survived what I would think was insurmountable odds. I can only imagine that had we not arrived when we did that he would have slipped away quietly while lying on this pile of wood. Little Miracle is a sign that good things continue to happen and sometimes we must stop and appreciate what is before us. Miracle is a baby black kitten, nothing unusual until you look into his bright little eyes and see his joy of life. He was a throw away kitten, dying alone on a cold pile of wood. Today he is a little puff of black silky fur, bright eyes and a meow that is music to your ears. He is a not only a survivor, he is one of God's littlest creatures.
Christmas Blessings to each and every one who has touched an animal's life this past year. We from the Cat Sanctuary thank each and every one for your rescue efforts, adopting shelter cats and kittens and especially to our faithful volunteers who help daily with our cats and kittens. We thank you all for your generous donations throughout the year, without them we couldn't continue to help God's smallest and most precious of creatures. Thank you and Merry Christmas. LaMoine Roth
December,
2008
By
LaMoine Roth
I
don't know how many people read recently about the lady in Omaha who
was cited for having too many cats in l996, 200l and 2007 and was
recently cited in July of this year for once again having not only too
many cats; 117 to be exact, but also a raccoon and a rabbit. The
headline IMMEDIATELY caught my attention as it read "Woman says she
isn't "crazy cat lady'. I smiled as I thought how many times that
people say to me, you must be crazy to do what you do. And many
actually think that I keep all of the cats in my home. Granted
when there is a sick or special needs cat, or a new mother & babies
they sometimes spend time in the house, and I have been known to keep a
cat or two in my bathroom, or office until I can get them settled into
the cat sanctuary. But, no they have their own house located in
my back yard. Their play area is confined to our back yard as
well.
I actually think some people picture me as this woman wearing a worn pink chenille bath robe complete with fuzzy slippers and who greets people at the door with a cat perched on my shoulders and hair balls on the floor. But that is far from the truth. First of all I don't own a pink chenille bath robe, or fuzzy slippers. And for those who know me best, my husband, children and close friends know that I am a compulsive cleaner. This woman from Omaha was cited for having too many cats, and cruelty to animals and the conditions of her home was bad enough that the City had tagged the home as uninhabitable. The State of Nebr. Recently inspected the cat sanctuary and we received an A+ rating. She is also a recovering alcoholic of more than 25 years, and I think my last drink was probably some 25 years ago. She was classified as a hoarder which is defined as having more than the typical number of companion animals,… the inability to provide even minimal standards of nutrition, sanitation, shelter and veterinary care" and a state of denial about that failure."
Every cat is available for adoption at the cat sanctuary. Again it amazes me when people come to adopt a cat or kitten and they ask me if all of the cats and kittens are up for adoption. My answer is "absolutely." People ask me how I can bear to adopt a cat that has been here for months or years. My answer is "happily". To think that a cat who has lived in a shelter environment and can have the chance to have a home of their own, is always a happy adoption.
As an example, I just adopted a black cat, Sabrina who was picked up by the York Police Dept in Jan. Of 2007. She was adopted to a woman from Lincoln and I know she will have a wonderful home. The woman e-mailed me and said she had made her self at home and was sleeping on the foot of her bed.
In the recent article it said that it took her four to five hours a day to keep the cats litter boxes clean. I can believe that. I know the hours I spend daily. Many of the cats had upper respiratory infections, feline leukemia and immunodeficiency virus diseases. She said that some came in sick and the sickness spread. I can believe that too. That is why we test & vaccinate each and every cat for feline leukemia before they enter the shelter. We vaccinate them for distemper; we treat them for fleas and worms. And when a cat or kitten is sick, we isolate them and treat them with antibiotics.
The one statement in that article that really struck home was that she didn't go out and "collect" these cats. People found out that she would take them in, and that is how she acquired so many. She said that she wasn't crazy, but just couldn't turn people down when they would bring her a stray cat. That sounds so familiar. Including the carry over cats and kittens from 2007, there have been 530 cats and kittens that have come and gone from the Cat Sanctuary so far this year. That is more than a cat a day either coming in or being adopted. So in some ways I can relate to the "crazy lady". I know I can't save all the cats and kittens that need to be rescued, but with the help of the Cat Sanctuary volunteers we have made a difference to 530 cats and kittens.
Saving one cat won't change the world, but surely the world will change for that one cat…..LaMoine Roth AKA the crazy cat lady.
December,
2008
By
LaMoine Roth
Mr. Tom finds a home…..
Mr. Tom finds a home…..
This story was shared to me by a faithful Adopt A Pet volunteer for the
dogs, Susan Murphy. She has been involved for many years in the
Irish Setter rescue program.
I am Susan Murphy and I moved to York about three years ago on three
acres just south of the York city limits. Anyone who knows me will tell
you I am a solid "dog person" and help with the dogs at YAAP, so it is
surprising I am writing this article about a "cat". While raising and
showing Irish Setters and living in the country, it does require cats
to be on the premise and while not my strong interest I do have a
special place in my heart for them. I brought several with me on the
move from Colorado to York. My biggest aggravation has been this very
large yellow tom cat that kept coming on my property to find food. He
constantly fought with my own cats and I felt a huge dislike for this
intrusive big tom. To be honest I was a little fearful of him, he was
so huge and intimidating. My husband threatened to live trap him and
take him on a one way trip to the vet, but I kept dragging my feet. He
was so large and beat up from his life on the run and I constantly
worried that he would injure my cats or give them some dreaded disease.
But still I didn't want to give him a one way ride to the vet.
When
he first arrived he was scared of humans and would run away should I
walk out where he was. I will never forget the day when I walked into
our garage, he was in there enjoying a free meal when he saw me, and he
immediately ran for the cat door to escape the presence of a human. The
moment he hit the cat door, he found a dog on the other side, he looked
at me, looked at the dog trying to determine what the greater threat
was, and chose the dog and freedom over me. As time went on, I found he
felt more comfortable around me. He would lie in a comfortable place in
my garage or sun himself on my front deck. He no longer sprinted at my
arrival. Imagine my surprise when I went to feed the cats one day and
he was at my heals; crying in his excitement at food time. We slowly
took one step at a time and he became more comfortable. Last night, in
fear of being ripped apart I bravely reached down to touch him and he
took that well. Today I decided to try and pet him and started by
slowly scratching his back next to his tail. If you are a dog or pet
owner you know that all animals love to be scratched, especially cats,
they arch up as if asking "don't stop". I continued up his back until
we both realized I was actually scratching his ears. Oh how this sweet
and lost boy was enjoying it, before we both knew it we were "bonding".
My next step is to get him to the vet to be vaccinated and neutered.
That done I hope he will forget his "tom ways" and enjoy a future life
he has never been able to enjoy. He will be welcome with us and can
live out his life with security, comfort, and all the food and ear
scratches he wants.
The point I am trying to get across is if you have the room, love and
time in your life to share with these displaced cats, PLEASE do so. So
many like "Tom" have lived such a hard life and no matter how feral
they are, all they really want is someone to give them love, shelter
and care.
Tom has truly found himself a home. This made me think that deep
inside every animal there is love and the desire to be loved. If only
we humans could learn to reach the point to make that connection. I
always knew this, but had never had such a challenge to reach that
point, before I met "Tom". I don't know cats very well, but I do know
that this guy has made me realize that I can make a difference in a
lost and solitary cat.
What a wonderful way to share this Holiday Season if each of us could
give a displaced animal a new home love and security. To know that all
will always be loved and cared for. We have so many great dogs and cats
at YAAP who only want to share their love and life with a family. If
you have the time, love and space for a new "furkid", please think of
these animals at this time and bring them into your family life.
From all of us at YAAP We wish you all a Blessed Christmas and a Happy
New Year LaMoine Roth
November,
2008
By
LaMoine Roth
Rescue
angels are not always people who volunteer at shelters, many times they
are the woman standing in front of you at the grocery store, they may
live next door or they could be the man who helps you out at the lumber
yard. When I received this letter from Jean Schneider I
immediately remembered her telephone call and her request to help this
"stray" cat that had appeared in her backyard. This is her story
of "Buffy" and how she rescued him.
A VERY SPECIAL CAT
I happened to be looking out a kitchen window at the very time a
skinny, buff-colored cat squeezed under my back fence and came into the
yard. He appeared to be half-grown and he was so thin that I
wondered how he was able to exist. I immediately wanted to help
the poor creature.
I put milk in a dish and set it out into the yard some distance from
the frightened animal. I went back into the house and watched as
he cautiously approached the dish and hungrily lapped up every drop of
the milk. He then disappeared into another yard and I wondered if
I would ever see him again. Just in case, I made a trip to the
grocery store to buy some dry cat food and placed some of it in a dish
on my back patio.
Next morning the food was gone and the cat was lying in the grass near
the patio. I tried to approach him, but he moved away.
After a bit of coaxing he began to roll around and seemed rather
friendly as long as I kept my distance. At this point I
determined that he was a young male and that he must have been
abandoned.
I had been depressed over the recent loss of my husband, so my interest
in the stray cat became a kind of therapy for me. I continued to
put food outside the back door and one morning he actually allowed me
to touch him. Eventually I was able to pet him and he began to
rub against my legs. After he decided to come into the house and
happily investigate each room, I knew that this kitty deserved a good
home.
Every morning I looked forward to his appearance at the back door and
would let him come in for a visit. He never wanted to stay long,
but he seemed quite happy to be with me for short times. One day
he curled up in my lap, and that is when I knew I had to take
responsibility for his care. I realized that if I kept him myself
it would not be practical. I travel a lot and it would be hard to
work out a good plan for him during my absences. Fall was fast
approaching and he definitely needed a permanent place to live before
winter.
Through our local Adopt-A-Pet group, I got help to take him to the vet
for surgery and shots. They kept him long enough to recuperate
and I started trying to find a good home for my feline friend.
Nothing that came about was satisfactory to me, so I finally reached
the conclusion that I would bring him home with me and deal with the
problem of my absences later. I called a friend and asked what
arrangements she made for her cat when she was away from home.
She informed me that she had lost her precious cat ant that she never
travels. That gave me food for thought.
Next day I called my friend and asked her if she would consider taking
another cat. She was hesitant, but finally told me I could bring
him to her house for a trail run. Along with the good lady who
runs the local cat sanctuary, I took him in a carrier to the place I
hoped would be his new home. It was a perfect solution so I
whispered in the kitty's ear that he must be very careful not to "blow"
this miraculous opportunity.
I stayed away for several days, but finally called to find out what was
happening. A touching story had begun to unfold about a woman who
had been sad over the loss of a pet and a scared little cat who badly
needed a home. The presence of an animal that needed her care was
having a beneficial effect on my friend, and the kitty was adapting
beautifully to his new surroundings. I knew he definitely had a
home when she decided to name him "Buffy" because of his buff color.
It has been a great thing for me that I can visit Buffy wherever I
wish. He always greets me with affection which tends to brighten
my day. He is still frightened of most things and people,
probably because of his early background. We will never know from
whence he came or what brought him into my yard at the precise moment I
was looking out the window. But we do now that he now has food,
shelter and most of all…love. And the truth is that he has
given two women so much in return that we are the better for it.
We have not only shared a concern for a neglected animal, but we have
forged a friendship which is valuable to both of us. Sometimes
life's little dramas really do have happy endings.
Thank you Jean for your kindness to this "stray" cat. And thank
you for sharing your story with us. To Buffy and to the
volunteers you are a truly a "rescue angel"
November,
2008
By
LaMoine Roth
My
name is Gary and
this is my
story…
My
name is Gary and I have been residing at the Cat Sanctuary for almost a
year, Dec 27th to be exact. My memory is a little dim on how I came to
be in the backyard of a residence on east 14th St. I do remember that I
was covered in grease and smelled like gasoline. I can't remember if I
was living in a garage or if I somehow came to this particular yard by
riding in someone's car engine. I do remember that it was so cold and
there was a big hunting dog that had me cornered in their fenced in
back yard. I was very scared when the owner came out and rescued me. He
called the Cat Sanctuary to see if there was room for me. Thankfully
there was room for "one" more and I remember hiding in the back of the
owner's service truck, and the "cat lady" had to crawl around trying to
find where I was hiding. I don't know why I was so scared but I
certainly didn't trust anyone. I can remember that I hid for several
weeks behind anything that I could squeeze in between, and if any of
the volunteers tried to pet me I let them know immediately that wasn't
a very good idea. I became known as the cat with an attitude. I was
actually quite proud that regardless of all the patience and attention
given to me I was very snarl and antisocial. This went on for months
and then suddenly things started to change. Maybe it was my favorite
volunteer Judy who had so much patience with me. She never gave up on
me and every time she came, she showed me special attention. I am a big
enough cat to admit that I was not very appreciative but began to
realize how VERY lucky I was to end up at the sanctuary. I became a
reformed cat, I stopped hiding, and in fact I was the first cat at the
door to greet the volunteers.
And that is not the only thing that started to change. I started to
grow and before I knew what happened I grew into this huge fat cat. I
don't know what happened but suddenly I was BIG. I could no longer hide
if I wanted to, no place was large enough that something didn't hang
out. And would you believe that NOW that I have become the most social
cat at the sanctuary they have put me on a diet??? The vet said I
should loose about 5 lbs…..SAY WHAT?
My wish for Christmas is that I have my own couch to lounge on, my own
adoring family to grant my every wish. And more food. Definitely more
food. Please if you are reading this come and adopt me, don't let the
cat lady know that I have sent this SOS, just ask casually if she has
any fat cats, maybe a grey & white fat cat, you might even mention
that you are looking for a cat that everyone loves. And if she still
doesn't get it, you might say something like "I have always liked the
name Gary, do you by chance have a fat cat named Gary?" Just
remember…act casual, and definitely don't mention food or she
will start yapping about calories and diets.
PS:One more thought; who is dressed for the season, jolly, fat, and
loved by everyone? You all thought I was going to say me didn't
you? Of course I was talking about Santa; I wouldn't be caught dead in
that silly red suit. Gary………
November,
2008
By
LaMoine Roth
We have a new mother and 5 kittens residing at the Cat Sanctuary.
The mama's name is Donna; her offspring are Sidney, Bart, Rex, Andy and
little sister Tina. Donna is a torte shorthair, Tina is a dark
calico and all of the brothers are yellow tigers. This is the
story of how they came to be with
us……………
Charleen,
who has been a faithful volunteer at the Cat Sanctuary, e-mailed me and
said that she and her husband, Greg had been out to Recharge Lake and
she had seen what she thought was a young cat. Charleen returned
home and got a can of cat food, and when she returned she put the food
out and the little cat gobbled up the food. She even let Charleen
pick her up but when Charleen tried to put her in the kennel, she
resisted and returned to a gully close by and Charleen said she kept
looking over her shoulder as if to say, come with me. I
suggested that she take one of our live traps and see if she could
rescue her with the trap. On that next morning, which was
Saturday, Charleen came and picked up the trap. She told me later
that when she went back to Recharge Lake there were campers who had a
tent close to where she had last seen the cat, so she decided to come
back after the campers left. If you have ever worked with a
rescue group, you know what I am trying to put in writing, you DON'T
give up easily. So once again Charleen headed to Recharge Lake,
and after setting up the live trap with a fresh can of tuna cat food,
she went to the edge of the ravine where she had last seen the young
cat. She called the age old call of "here kitty kitty" and up out
of the tall weeds popped the head of the cat. While she gingerly
crept up the embankment Charleen thought she saw a flash of something
yellow. She couldn't believe what she was seeing; there was a
little kitten down there. This is where I came into the
picture. Deb just happened to be at my house as we were dealing
with a sickly kitten. Charleen called on her cell phone and said
that she had found some kittens but didn't know how she was going to
reach them. I said we would be right out and when we arrived
Charleen said she was certain that there were 4 kittens, 3 yellow ones
and a calico down in this to what looked to me like a 150 foot deep
gully, but probably isn't that deep….. I don't know who
voted, but I won the vote or the toss of the coin to go down into this
DEEP gully with very high weeds and I shutter to think of the
possibilities of the wayward snakes that also live down
there………….I said the depth didn't bother
me, the mosquitoes and bugs didn't bother me but if I came nose to nose
with a snake I was going to shoot out of there like a cannon. I
expected to spend most of the morning chasing these kittens up and down
the length of the gully, but fortunately I was able to nap the first
one very quickly. I yelled up 1 down and 3 to go. The other
little yellow guy was also easy, and the little calico blended into the
side of the hill under the roots of a tree that if Charleen didn't
direct me right to her from her perch on the ledge of the gully I would
never have seen her. Both Charleen & Deb were cheering me on
but I must make it clear that neither offered to come down with
me. Although they were able to point out which way the little
guys were running. In a surprisingly short time we had the mother
and her 4 little babies.
I couldn't believe that someone would actually dump this mother and her
little family. We found an empty sack of cat food close to the
rim of gully. We can only imagine that when they abandoned the
mother and kittens they left this food behind. Fortunately the
food didn't attract other predators that could have easily killed the
mother and especially her little kittens. Thankfully someone with
compassion like Charleen noticed the mother and as we talked about it
later, thankfully Charleen did not take the mother on that Friday
evening. We know now that she was a very tame cat, but she
wouldn't let Charleen take her because she knew that she had her babies
and unlike humans she wouldn't abandon them. And I am giving
myself credit because it took more nerve than you can imagine for me to
go down into an area which I am certain had more than one of those
quick slithery creatures called a snake that was just waiting to give
me a heart attack, especially if I stepped on one in those high
weeds………..I think that Melanie Wilkins and I have
the same thoughts when it comes to snakes. I still catch
myself looking up quickly when I walk out of a door thinking that
one might land on my shoulder like Melanie wrote about her encounter
with the "snake".
There is one more chapter to Donna and her litter of kittens. I
received a call from Katherine & her son, Reid the following
Monday. They had been fishing at Recharge Lake and Katherine
said, "we found a little kitten". I immediately said, "What color
is it?" She said it is yellow and is about 2 months old. I
asked her where she found it, and she said right by this deep
gully. BINGO, I knew it had to be another kitten of
Donna's. Katherine & Reid brought him to me and sure enough
he was a spitting image of his brother, same size and extremely
hungry. When he was put with his mom and siblings, you knew that
he was back with his family, Donna immediately started cleaning him and
I am sure he had a tale to tell if only he could speak. He must
have been in hiding as we had only seen 4 in all the time that we spent
rescuing his brothers.
PLEASE if you ever consider abandoning a cat or dog, reconsider, Donna
and her kittens are the lucky ones. It is generally not a happy
ending. It was such a hot day, Donna was actually panting she was so
hot and she drank almost a whole bowl of water. It would have
been a totally different story without Charleen and without the cat
sanctuary. We can't save every cat or kitten, but for that day we
were able to save 6 and that is a start.
October,
2008
By
LaMoine Roth
P
Bear follows Big
Bear to the Big
Apple
Two weeks ago I wrote about Big Bear going to live in New York City
with his new family Warren & Nga. Last Sunday I received a
call from Warren asking if P Bear, Big Bear's sister was still
available for adoption. I said yes she was, and he asked if once
again I would make the trip into Omaha and put P Bear on a plane bound
for New York to be with her brother Big Bear. He and his wife had
discussed it and thought that the eight year old brother and sister
should be together. These two "big" cats are long haired dark
grey main coons. They have the "teddy bear" personality and both
are very affectionate and tolerant of what life holds for them.
Of course when he asked if I would help him to adopt P Bear I said
yes. Then I had to break the news to Bob that we were once
again going to stay in Omaha overnight to be at the airport no later
than 5:00 AM. This trip was easier as I knew that we needed a
large roller suit case to cart P Bear into the motel, food water
dishes, cat litter pan, and her shot records, flight confirmation so on
and so on. P Bear took it in stride and later that afternoon
Warren called and said that P Bear & Big Bear had checked each
other out and he said it was like they looked at one another and said
"hey, I know you". While waiting to check P Bear in at the
airport, there were no monkeys on this trip as there was when I sent
Big Bear, but a young dog was being sent to Norway and 3 small puppies
were going to all corners of the United States. Again P Bear was
the only cat but his kennel and size were bigger than all 4 dogs.
As
P Bear was being carried away, I thought how fortunate that someone was
willing to go to this much effort to bring a brother and sister
together again. People continually amaze me in their total
disregard for the needs and compassion of animals and then someone like
Warren & Nga enter the picture and I am once again renewed in my
appreciation of the total commitment of people in regards to
animals. P Bear & Big Bear, who would have thought what their
final destination would be in life.
Last week my two nieces, Mandy from New York and Ginger from California
were here visiting. Their parents are my brother Johnny & his
wife Alice who live in Bakersfield CA. Johnny was also visiting
while his wife Alice stayed in Bakersfield caring for not only their
two dogs and several cats, but also Ginger's dog and several
cats. Mandy had a "cat sitter" at her apartment in New York in
New York, and her boyfriend Henry who was also visiting from New York
had his dog "Spot" staying at the "dog sitter's" apartment.
Ginger, Mandy & I spent hours talking "animal" stories.
Ginger who is holding P Bear in the picture graduated last year from UC
at Davis California Veterinary College. She spent the past full
year working in a veterinary hospital in San Diego that was strictly
trauma & referral cases from other vets nationwide. They had
a cancer center, burn center, to name a few specialized areas of this
unique hospital. She and her fiancé Pat will be settling
in Palm Springs where she would like to work in shelter medicine.
She has the desire to help the animals with the greatest need, those
that do not have homes, and those that have been abandoned, injured and
left to die. Her little dog is one of those freeways hit and run
cases that she cared for and was never claimed. Her year of
working in the hospital emergency care was very draining, not only
putting in over 12 hour days, but the continual stream of the worst of
the worst scenarios. She has lots of great ideas and her main
focus will be spaying & neutering. She says this is the only
way to slow the growth of thousands upon thousands of unwanted dogs and
cats in our nation. To make affordable spay & neuter clinics
in every community. She talked about how many vets come to these
clinics and give one afternoon a month to do low cost or free
spaying/neutering services. This allows the clinics to be open
each weekday and it is a way of giving back to the community, and
helping the explosive over population of animals.
There are a lot of people who really do care for the well being of
shelter animals. People like Ginger who can and will make a huge
difference to animals that she spays/neuters and treats in her
profession. I know that she is dedicated not to the profession
alone, but to the desire to make a difference in animal's lives.
To take the pain and suffering away and to show each and every animal
that she treats compassion that can't be taught in veterinary school
but comes from within a persons being. Animals have
feelings of fear, pain and anxiety, and Ginger certainly cannot treat
and save them all, but I am so gratified to know that in her practice
she will do the best for the medical science of her profession, but
more importantly she will treat the animal with gentleness, compassion
and kindness. Shelters across the nation are filled with
throw away pets; these deserve the same medical care and attention of
the pampered pets of America. Hopefully there will be more and
more Ginger's of the world to take on this much needed service to our
shelter animals. Your "aunt LaMoine" is VERY proud of you,
Ginger.
October,
2008
By
LaMoine Roth
Big
Bear goes to the
Big Apple ARTICLE
Big Bear came to the sanctuary on August 30 of this year. He was a huge main coon. He was not only big, but with his super long coat, he looked even larger. He had an "apple head" which simply means his head was as round
as
an apple, but more like a small muskmelon in size. I have never
seen paws as large as Big Bear and when I put his picture on our web
site I included a picture of his front paws to show what a large cat he
was. He was just as lovable as he was big. When I would go
out to take care of the dozens of cats and kittens, Big Bear always
seemed to make it to me first and he would stretch his paws up wanting
to be picked up. He truly was a cat in a teddy bear's body.He was a dark grey and even though his coat needed a good brushing when he arrived, he was a beautiful guy. He was gentle with the tiny kittens and seemed to make friends with all of the adult cats including grumpy "Sky". When a cat can get along with her that is saying something.
I put his pictures on our website and immediately I had three calls, the first from Houston Texas, the second from New York City, and the third from Orlando Florida. The woman from Houston decided that the expense of shipping him to Texas was too expensive. So next in line was Warren from New York. After a week of e-mailing back and forth, several telephone calls and more pictures being e-mailed, plans were made to have Big Bear flown to New York City. The woman from Orlando said if New York decided against him, that he would become a citizen of Orlando. And surprisingly enough that is the only 3 calls that I had on him.
In our conversations I quickly informed Warren that Big Bear was not a super young cat, he was eight years old. That’s not a senior cat, but he would certainly be classified as an adult cat. So now Warren knew that Big Bear needed a trip to the groomer, and that he was a middle aged cat. Neither of these two bits of information made any difference to him, he wanted Big Bear, bad hair day and middle aged made no difference……..
It would have been easier for me if Big Bear could have been adopted by someone closer who would have come to the sanctuary and taken him home, but I knew that he would have a super great home with Warren and so we started making plans. After checking with the airline we knew what type of carrier and dimensions size that they required. This took a trip to Lincoln since we couldn't find one here in York that fit their exact specifications. Airlines are very particular in the style, dimensions for the size of animal being shipped and I didn't want to get to Epply and not have the correct one so I bought the brand, size and style that they specified. The carrier had to have snap on food and water trays and a small bag of food needed to be secured to the top of the carrier.
Next up, a trip to Gloysteins for the health certificate. Big Bear was checked over, given his rabies booster and the proper paper work filled out to be sent with him en route to his new home. Everything was ready and his itinerary was mapped out. He would need to be at the Continental cargo at 5:00 AM (yes that’s correct 5:00 AM) and his flight would leave at 7:05 AM on Sept 29. Thankfully Warren offered to reserve a room close to Epply so Bob and I loaded Big Bear, kennel, food & water dishes, food, health certificates, paper work, litter pans and his favorite "blankie" and we arrived in Omaha at approximately 10:00 PM. To get Big Bear to the 2nd floor, I put him in a large roller suitcase and wheeled him through the lobby. He checked out the room, then laid down on his "blankie" and promptly went to sleep. We called our wake up for 4:15 AM and the next morning found ourselves waiting in line with several large dogs and 6 small carriers full of a family of spider monkeys being shipped from UNL to a zoo in Staten Island. Big Bear took it all in stride; he was very calm and relaxed. We found out that he was being sent to New York via Houston Texas, so he had a full day of flying.
That evening Warren called after he was back home in his apartment from LaGuardia airport. He said that Big Bear sat on the seat next to him in his car taking in the sights, he had checked out the apartment and that he was now curled up on the back of his sofa watching the traffic below.
I sometimes wonder why an eight year old, matted cat named Big Bear can be with us for less than a month and manage to be adopted by a family approximately 1,346 miles away. To have hundreds of dollars spent for expenses and really not knowing the personality of the cat they were receiving. While there are other cats that continually wait for the day that someone will pick them. But one thing is for certain, we will continue to care for those cats until they too are chosen by their new family and they, like Big Bear, will go to their forever home. Maybe not to New York but to a secure home possibly right here in York, Nebraska.
October, 2008
By
LaMoine Roth
A
FINAL TRIBUTE TO
"SAMSON" AND A SAD
FAREWELL TO TOM'S BEST FRIEND
Our
neighborhood just recently lost "Samson". A truly amazing cat who
resided at Tom & Ruth Clerc's home. Tom "adopted" Samson at a
shelter in Colorado. For over 15 years Samson gave as much love
as he received. With recent health problems for Tom & Ruth;
Samson was the stabilizing factor in their lives. With Ruth's
recent move to the Hearthstone, Tom & Samson became even closer and
were best friends. Several months ago Tom was hospitalized for a
number of weeks. Tom asked me if I knew anyone who could check on
Samson while he was gone. I said "yes I think there is someone"
who would do that. So began my relationship with Samson.
Every morning and every evening I would make my daily rounds to feed
Samson, give him his twice daily arthritis pill, change his water, and
clean his litter box. And more personal things such as seeing
that his back side was clean. There was a reason for this.
Those that knew Samson know right away; but for those of you who were
not fortunate enough to have been introduced to Samson I will only say
that due to his size he could not reach all of his daily personal
needs. You see Samson weighed 28 lbs. He had massive
shoulders and this little tiny head. When he walked, he swayed
from side to side. And before you jump to conclusions, Samson was
on a low weight dry diet. Tom was diligent in only giving treats
that were less than one calorie per treat and his special diet was over
seen by the staff at Gloysteins. I knew that Samson was spoiled
when I watched him "lay down" next to his food & water and ate from
his elevated food dish. He didn't like to stand, and with the
elevated dish it was level with his
head…………… Samson even had his
"favorite" litter. I never tested the waters, I just purchased
what Tom said Samson preferred.Samson and I grew to be very good friends, after his grooming, feeding and med's were taken care of I would put his lease on and he would saunter around in Tom's backyard, lifting his head to sniff the air, checking out the various spots on the patio before laying down to catch a few of the suns rays. Each evening I would call Tom and Samson would get close to the phone receiver and when he would hear Tom's voice, his "motor" would kick in and he would butt the receiver as was his mode of conversation.
During one of our conversations Tom said that he wished he had a full view screen door on his kitchen so Samson could watch the birds and squirrels lying on the floor. He thought that Samson would be less lonely if he could see out more easily. That was easy to solve, the door was purchased and Bob & Gary installed it within a few days. I reported that yes Samson did enjoy lying and watching the activities in the yard although he enjoyed it more when lying on a soft layer of towels. Tom then said maybe he would enjoy the front door with a full view. Again Bob & Gary stalled a full view screen door on the front door. Now Samson could look out not only on the patio, but on the drive way and street. Just think all of this was done without communication. Samson's needs and wants were met without a single word being said. Just those gold eyes watching Tom's every move and Tom in tune with his needs and wants.
I had thought about bringing Samson to our house but with all the other cat's and kittens I thought he would be most happy in his own home. Bringing him here would be like taking "grandma" to stay at a child care facility. Too much commotion, noise and besides he wouldn't have his king size bed to curl up in, complete with little steps up the side so he didn't have to jump up or down. I can still see him lumbering down the hallway from the bedroom when I called his name. He was such a big regal cat if you could overlook the swinging belly, oversized front shoulders and his attitude saying "I'm the bomb".
Today is a sad day. Today Tom did his last and most loving thing for Samson. Samson was diagnosed this week with kidney failure and although medical care was given immediately the diagnosis was not good. Tom told me that he would not allow his loyal friend Samson to suffer. So today with his daughter Conny & her husband Pat, Tom made the difficult trip to Gloysteins and with compassion and understanding, Dr. Jennifer stopped the suffering of Samson. Today Samson crossed over the "Rainbow Bridge". And today a neighborhood and acquaintances of Tom's family will mourn with Tom, the passing of a very special cat.
October,
2008
By
LaMoine Roth
Roth
Rescue on a Friday Night
On a Friday night in early September I received a call from Marty Rousseau. He said that he and his wife Suzie and friends Randy & Kathy Quick were traveling along Highway 8l bypass and at the Highway 34 intersection; Marty had seen a little black head pop out of a clump of grass near the 2nd light pole. He stopped immediately and could see 4 little black kittens hiding in the grass just off the edge of the road. They scattered as the four got out of the vehicle but 3 were quickly caught and secured in their vehicle. One had managed to slip away. When I arrived it was beginning to get dark and the five of us continued to search the ditches and into the nearest fields. No one could see the last little kitten. So as Marty said: "better 3 than none" They finally left and so did I. After 9:00 it was really dark and I conveined Bob to go back out with me. So flashlight in hand I thought surely I could see the flash of the kitten's eyes in the light of the flashlight. But after an hour of searching I truly thought it was not to be. The next morning at 7:30 Marilyn (a volunteer at the sancutary) I were back out searching once again. After another hour we finally gave up. Marilyn said to me, "do you think there is a chance we will find it?" I hated to admit it, but I thought after this length of time it was not looking good. Marilyn said it would probably take a miracle and she hoped that the kitten guardian angel would watch over it. I e-mailed the other volunteers and many took the time to drive out and search as well.
I had planned to go back after the Nebraska football game was over, to try my luck again. At about the end of the 1st quarter of play, the phone rang and when I answered it, I immediately recognized Marty's voice. He said "hot diggity d_ _ _ _ and I said "YOU GOT IT". He said "YES I DID!!!" To anyone who is into rescue work there is no better feeling to know that you have rescued a small defenseless animal from what would have been a certain death. Either from the traffic, starvation, or a predator animal. It is so hard when you know an animal is out there and you can't find it.
Marty said that he found it less than 10 feet from where they were all huddled the night before. I am sure that he was back looking for the security of his siblings.
It is great to know that two couples out for an evening together would take the time to not only stop, but to get out and tramp through the ditches trying to rescue these little 6 week old kittens. And it was above and beyond the call when Marty & his friend Levi came back the following day to finish what Marty had started the night before. On behalf of the volunteers at the sanctuary we give you guys a "paws up".
If everyone were as compassionate and caring, it would make our jobs so much easier. And SHAME on you who dumped these little baby kitten along a dark busy highway. You know who are the couples that dropped this little kittens on the side of road knowing that their fate would have an entirely differerent outcome if it had not been the dedication and compassion of the Rousseau's & Quirks ;
And to add a happily ever after note, a friend of the Rousseau's are planning on adopting all 4 when they are ready for adoption.
We appreciate all of the donations and especially appreciate donations of scoop able cat litter. If anyone is interested in volunteering at the Cat Sanctuary, please give us a call @ 362-4908. For those that are already volunteering they will assure you that the rewards are great. And to everyone who has ever rescued the littlest and most vulnerable of God's creatures, we thank you. And to that thank you we add the thanks of the four black kittens, Jasmine, Janelle, and Jarod & Jacob. When you see an animal in need. Stand up and take action. Your reward will continue to make you know that you did the
Right thing., Its never bad manners, never dorky or "uncool" to rescue a defenseless animal
November13 , 2008
Winter is Coming
I
was in junior high
school, back in the
50s, my friends and I spent
all day Saturday in downtown York. We walked down in the morning to
purchase freshly baked pastries from one of the two bakeries in town.
Then we ate them at the coke shop on the corner of Sixth and Grant
where most of the teens frequented. Life was pretty laid back in those
days and we were happy just being with our friends, enjoying the busy
downtown atmosphere and just being kids. Our legs were our only means
of transportation unless some of the older kids offered us a ride,
which we would eagerly accept. On one particular Saturday in March, at
the end of the day, we began our journey back up the hill to our homes.
Two of my friends and I were offered a ride by some older boys and we
accepted. But, instead of taking us home, they took us out in the
country, about six miles southeast of York and dumped us. In those
days, it was sort of a rite of passage to get dumped and we were not
happy about it, but grudgingly got out of the car and watched them as
they drove away laughing. We knew we had a long walk ahead of us, into
a strong, north wind. It wasn't long before we felt the painful bite of
the cold on our faces and we watched as the sun began to set. A dark
shadow was cast on the road ahead and we could not help but sense the
fear building up in each of us. Our initial brisk walking toward our
homes was slowed to a snail's pace by the time we finally reached our
destination, for our legs had swollen to twice their size. Our faces
were unrecognizable. I got little sympathy at home, and was scolded for
being late and accepting a ride with boys we did not know that well.
Lesson learned.
The lesson of being dumped didn't seem very funny anymore after having experienced it first hand. Yet, people do it all of the time to their pets, giving no thought to the terror and discomfort that the animal will feel. To be left to fend for itself in unfamiliar territory, with nothing to protect it from the cold, and to expect it to suddenly become a dog or cat that must find its own food when all it has known is to have had it placed in a dish in front of them. Where is the logic? This past week a little dachshund mix puppy was found on a country road, spinning in circles, suffering from a seizure. Thank goodness it was picked up and the poor little thing was taken to the vet. Tests were run on it, but there was no way to keep the seizures from returning. Sadly, it had to be euthanized. After an investigation, we found the owner of the puppy, and after confronting her, she admitted to dumping it. Why? Because it was having seizures and she could not afford to take it to the vet, so she thought she was doing the best thing for the puppy to ... WHAT? DUMP IT?
For crying out loud, would someone please tell me how that is the best thing for the puppy? She then wanted to know if she could look at our dogs in the hopes of getting another one. She was promptly informed that not only would she not get a dog from us, but she was now on our DNA list (do not adopt) and her name has been forwarded to other shelters as well. People with this kind of mentality on caring for a pet should never, ever, own one. Pets do cost money. It’s a fact. If you have no money, then don't get one.
With winter approaching, I look around town and still see dogs that do not have adequate shelter to get them through a frigid Nebraska winter. One poor yellow lab near my home, is chained to a dog house and his ribs are showing. As thin as he is, how will he fare this winter? It is time to fill your dog houses with fresh straw or wood chips and turn the opening away from the north wind. Do not use blankets as they will freeze. They will need fresh water every day. Your neighbors should not be forced to listen to your dog howl on a cold night because he is suffering. And when it gets to sub zero temperatures, please bring your dog inside.
I have a hairless dog, Kunta, and now I must put a sweater on him when we take our walks to keep him comfortable. I acquired Kunta about eight years ago, because his owners left him tied outside, in the cold, with no shelter, and since he had no hair he was unable to keep warm. Thankfully, the neighbors called the police and the owners relinquished him. Common sense can determine how you care for your pet. Compassion is necessary as well.
When I got dumped that day, long ago, to help calm my fears, I had the ability to understand what was happening, but a dog cannot rationalize. They do not understand why they are being left in the cold and can only suffer silently, waiting for someone to care for them. That someone is you.
Lesson learned.
The lesson of being dumped didn't seem very funny anymore after having experienced it first hand. Yet, people do it all of the time to their pets, giving no thought to the terror and discomfort that the animal will feel. To be left to fend for itself in unfamiliar territory, with nothing to protect it from the cold, and to expect it to suddenly become a dog or cat that must find its own food when all it has known is to have had it placed in a dish in front of them. Where is the logic? This past week a little dachshund mix puppy was found on a country road, spinning in circles, suffering from a seizure. Thank goodness it was picked up and the poor little thing was taken to the vet. Tests were run on it, but there was no way to keep the seizures from returning. Sadly, it had to be euthanized. After an investigation, we found the owner of the puppy, and after confronting her, she admitted to dumping it. Why? Because it was having seizures and she could not afford to take it to the vet, so she thought she was doing the best thing for the puppy to ... WHAT? DUMP IT?
For crying out loud, would someone please tell me how that is the best thing for the puppy? She then wanted to know if she could look at our dogs in the hopes of getting another one. She was promptly informed that not only would she not get a dog from us, but she was now on our DNA list (do not adopt) and her name has been forwarded to other shelters as well. People with this kind of mentality on caring for a pet should never, ever, own one. Pets do cost money. It’s a fact. If you have no money, then don't get one.
With winter approaching, I look around town and still see dogs that do not have adequate shelter to get them through a frigid Nebraska winter. One poor yellow lab near my home, is chained to a dog house and his ribs are showing. As thin as he is, how will he fare this winter? It is time to fill your dog houses with fresh straw or wood chips and turn the opening away from the north wind. Do not use blankets as they will freeze. They will need fresh water every day. Your neighbors should not be forced to listen to your dog howl on a cold night because he is suffering. And when it gets to sub zero temperatures, please bring your dog inside.
I have a hairless dog, Kunta, and now I must put a sweater on him when we take our walks to keep him comfortable. I acquired Kunta about eight years ago, because his owners left him tied outside, in the cold, with no shelter, and since he had no hair he was unable to keep warm. Thankfully, the neighbors called the police and the owners relinquished him. Common sense can determine how you care for your pet. Compassion is necessary as well.
When I got dumped that day, long ago, to help calm my fears, I had the ability to understand what was happening, but a dog cannot rationalize. They do not understand why they are being left in the cold and can only suffer silently, waiting for someone to care for them. That someone is you.
November , 2008
Age knows no boundaries when it comes to man
and dog. Such is the case with retired physician, Harold
Nordlund, and his young dog, Audrey. She is a beautiful female collie that came
into his care by way of York Adopt a Pet.I picked Audrey up
from a young lady
that was moving.....same oh..same oh excuse...the dog can't go with
me. Sadly, treated like a piece of furniture that gets left
behind. When I went to pick up Audrey, I found her chained to a
tree behind the house. She was soaking wet from the violent
thunderstorm that had occurred the night before. Her food was
soggy and she was curled up in a ball on the ground. As I exited
my car, she quickly jumped up and her feet began to dance as I
approached her. I snapped a leash on her and she willingly jumped
into my car, but not before I deposited the chain that held her,
in a nearby garbage can, just so the next renter would not be
tempted to hook another dog to the tree.
I transported Audrey
to Harold and
Judi's home as they had agreed in advance to foster her. By the
end of the week, she had been groomed, spayed and received her
vaccinations. A transformation took place in that
week. Audrey turned into an absolutely gorgeous dog.
She soon worked
herself into their
hearts, especially Harold's . He wanted to keep her, but Judi was
reluctant at the time because their older schnauzer, Phoebe, was
experiencing serious medical problems and she didn't want to put any
more stress on her by bringing a new dog into the house. Harold
had lost his German shepherd, Lady, earlier in the year and Judi knew
he missed having a dog by his side when he worked in the yard.
So she offered a
suggestion. If
they kept Audrey, he was to be her primary caregiver. Almost
immediately, Harold had Audrey positioned in the front yard learning
basic commands. He fed her and took her for walks. She soon
became his dog. And Phoebe, after a few snit fits adopted to
Audrey's presence and they have now become pals and chase each other
through the house. At mealtime, Audrey patiently watches Phoebe
eat her food and cleans up any remains before turning to eat her
own food. She waits in anticipation as Phoebe receives her
evening insulin shot for she knows that they both will receive a treat
when it is done. Audrey has a language all of her own and will
talk to you, expecting everyone to listen to what she has
to say.
Harold soon
enrolled her in a
basic obedience class at K-9 Learning Center. I had the pleasure
of attending their graduation ceremony and she passed with flying
colors.
She spends her days
outside with
Harold, in the yard, playing with the many toads and unsuccessfully
trying to dig out the ground squirrels in the field. What a
contrast to the life she had led before she was rescued. She now
has what we all would call the good life...living inside, riding in the
car, given daily walks, even walking in parades and most
importantly, is given quality time and loved very much by her
owners.
I would wish this
life for every
dog. But I cannot help, as I pass by a chained dog, to wonder
what kind of personality lies inside him , unable to show itself,
because of the chain that smothers it's will.
Some never will get
the chance to
express who they really are. The cute antics will stay hidden.
My plea, if this
applies to you,
unhook your dog, take him inside for awhile. Give him some neck
rubs and scratch his belly and talk kindly to him. Take him
for a walk and let him smell new things. He will reward you ten
times over. Just ask Harold .
November
, 2008
A
"paws" for pets
By Gail
Nordlund
"
The
Instincts of a Mother Dog"
Losing
a pet can be a
traumatic experience for a family. If you have ever owned one,
then no doubt you have had to deal with it as well. Through the
years I have had to say goodbye to many of them and it never seems to
get any easier and I wouldn't want it to--they deserve to be grieved.
I received a tearful call from Dai Hineline
this past week telling me that the lost their dog Toni. She said
she found her in the yard, near her doghouse. I tried to console
her by saying that it was a peaceful way to go-to just lay down and be
gone. Toni's original name was "Two Socks" and it brought
back memories of the day when we got her at Adopt a Pet. It was
in 1999 and I received a call from Susie, a former member of the swim
team that I had coached. She was living in Beaver Crossing and
told me of her neighbor's dog, a German Shepherd mix, that had given
birth to a large number of puppies under her owner's porch. She
was not being fed. Her ribs were showing and trying to nurse
the puppies was more than she could do. So one day, Two Socks,
the mother dog, must have gone into a survival mode for her puppies and
began carrying them, one by one down the block to Susie's house, laying
them by her back door and would return to get
another one. Unprepared for this, Susie carried them back to the
owner's house. No sooner had she returned home did Two Socks
begin the journey, once again, pup in mouth, back to Susie's
house. It was then that Susie realized that the dog was
desperate..she was hungry and she needed help. Susie went to the
neighbors, but they would not answer the door, so she left them a note
saying she had the dog and puppies at her house. She never heard
from them. After several days, she called me and asked if we
could help her, so sister Judi and I jumped in the pickup and headed
for Beaver Crossing. I wish you could have seen us. Two
Socks was a big dog and she had at least ten puppies. I will
never forget the scene as we were driving down the interstate.
The puppies were in our laps and on the floor. I was driving and
Judi was on the passenger side. Two Socks sat erect in the middle
-- like a statue--staring straight ahead, unbelievably focused on the
road before her. It was as though she knew she was going on
a wonderful journey and that all was well.We
took the puppies to
Charlie and Deb Sanders for foster care and Two Socks went home with
me. The puppies were beginning to eat on their own, but
several times a day I would take Two Socks to visit them and let them
nurse awhile. She enjoyed seeing them, playing with them, and
teaching them some manners, but was always ready to go when the time
came. Eventually, all of the puppies were adopted to good
homes. And then, Dai and her family adopted Two Socks, renaming
her Toni. Dai told me later that she appreciated the fact that I
did screen their family to make sure the dog was going to a good
home. That is our policy with adopting dogs---it must be a good
home.
Dai's
children, Jeff
and Kaitlyn were young and eager for a pet. Dai told an endearing
story about Jeff. He came home from school and realized that he
had locked himself out of the house. It was a very cold day,
so he crawled into the dog house with Toni to stay warm. How Toni
must have loved that! Kaitlyn was about nine and she would make
frequent visits to our shelter when I was working. She would give
me updates on Toni and would describe it in such a way that I found her
to be a real delight and looked forward to her stopping by.
When
I visited with
Dai, she reminded me that Toni had come to us positive for
heartworm. At that time, we did not test them for heartworm, and
it was discovered when they took her in for a routine check at the
vet. Even though it was expensive for her, she had Toni treated
for the disease and it saved her life. She is wondering if having
had heartworm might have shortened Toni's death by a few years.
She was only ten. I told Dai that it was a blessing that she did
not have to make that gut wrenching decision on when it was time for a
pet to go. Toni crossed the Rainbow Bridge on her own, near the
same dog house that she and Jeff shared on a cold winter day.
Maybe her last thoughts were of him, remembering that day that pleased
her so much, as she peacefully drifted off to sleep.
September , 2008
" Saving the Shelties"
Mr. Animal Neglect has raised his ugly
head again at the expense of two adorable little Shelties. About a week
ago, I received a
call from Todd Gardner, at Greenwood Cemetery, regarding a dog that had
been living in the pasture west of the cemetery. He was concerned
for her, so I went right out. She ran from me each time I
attempted to get near her and when I saw her matted coat, I knew this
dog needed our help badly. I called Judy Johnson, our local
sheltie rescue person and asked if she would come out and help me catch
her. Between the two of us and some canned dog food, the
exhausted little girl finally gave in to the pangs of her aching, empty
tummy and came to eat, letting us secure her with a leash. Her
condition was deplorable. The mats that were cruelly pulling the
hair on her body must have been there since she was a puppy. Judy
transported her to the vet to make arrangements to get her shaved and
to have her heartworm tested, which is Adopt a Pet's standard
procedure for stray dogs. She was found to have had multiple
pregnancies - a breeder dog.
As Judy waited for
the test results,
she soon discovered the little girl was a sweet and appreciative
dog and she was anxious to get her settled in at home. The joy of
rescuing her was quickly gone when the tests results revealed that
she was positive for heartworm. Unfortunately, at Adopt a
Pet, we do not have the funds to treat every dog that comes in with
heartworm. Most of them have to be euthanized. Judy was
devastated. She asked for some time to think about it.
Shortly after, she called me and said that she and her husband, Leroy,
had made a decision to pay for the treatment themselves,
despite knowing that there is no guarantee that the procedure
would be successful.
They felt she
deserved a chance.
And Meagan, as she was named, boldly underwent the treatment, and so
far has come through with flying colors. After she was shaved, it
was revealed that she must have had an even darker side to her life, as
there were three large irregular and deep scars on her back - described
as possible burn scars. It must have been a horribly and painful
thing for her at the time.
She is now at home
with the Johnson's,
being kept quiet in a portable kennel most of the time, until she is
given the doctor's okay to resume normal activities.
Meagan is now
taken care of,
but it doesn't mean we can rest. On Saturday, I received a call
from Richard and Ann McCall that they were trying to catch a little dog
at the Catholic Cemetery, but were unsuccessful. And, to my
surprise, it was another sheltie, a beautiful, petite little thing, but
as skittish as they come. She was already worn out and the heat
of the day was taking it's toll on her, but even though she ran from
us, she never attempted to leave the cemetery. Once again, I
called on Judy Johnson and sister Judi to help with the rescue and both
were there in minutes. We spent a lot of time
trying to catch her
and had almost
given up and decided to set a trap. In the meantime, Judy J. had
positioned herself on the ground and slowly inched toward her
as the dog sought shade under her vehicle. We all
watched quietly as she was able to get close enough to secure her with
a leash. It was over! She was safe ! We
rewarded the little girl with some canned dog food and
she made no secret that she was hungry. She, too, has been used
for breeding and has the obvious traits of a puppy mill dog. She
is sweet, but shy, void of emotion, unresponsive to touch. I
don't know what these breeders do to them to mess up their
personalities so much, but it should be a crime. Once again, Judy
and Leroy have taken her in, gotten her cleaned up and
taken her to the vet. This time is was good news - her tests were
negative for heartworm. We were grateful for that, but Lady
has a lot to learn before she can be adopted. She must
learn to trust, to socialize and to learn how to be a dog.
Hopefully, she will forget the days when she was just a commodity that
manufactured puppies for a greedy owner's profit. Remember,
behind every cute puppy you see at a pet store, there is a mother dog
being kept in deplorable conditions, giving birth twice a year, without
words of kindness, yet she must endure.
Don't buy !
Put these people out
of business !
If anyone would like
to contribute to
Meagan's heartworm treatment and her eventual spay surgery that
she will be having, it would be appreciated. It can be mailed to
Katie North, 228 E. 5th St., York, NE. 68467 and ear mark it " Meagan's
Fund". Thank you!
You can feel it in the air. The chill from the
north wind is telling us that winter is just around the corner.
As I sit at my dining room table, sipping my morning coffee, I watch
the squirrels as they greedily finish off the ears of corn that I just
put out yesterday. They sit side by side with the doves ,
raiding their bird feeder, but they seem to be in harmony with
each other, sharing the food. The finches and smaller birds are
clinging to their feeders with a sense of urgency. I am putting
out new suet cakes every other day. They know they must fatten up
before the snow falls. My birds and squirrels need not worry, for
I will always have food for them. My sister, Judi, swears that
half of the squirrels from the nearby park have found their way to my
home. Maybe, but I don't care. They provide me with lots of
enjoyment.
That same year, I had a traumatic experience that I will never forget, even though I wish I could. Mom had gone out back to take out the trash and I heard her scream. I raced to see what was wrong and she pointed out three rats in our garage near the garbage cans. She was terrified of them. I wanted to come to her rescue, I guess, so I got my BB gun , mistakenly thinking I could easily dispose of them for her. I shot them, one by one, but not before there were tears streaming down my cheeks because I didn't realize how many BB's it would take to kill a rat. I had to reload my gun and finally.... finally, they were dead. By then, my sobbing was uncontrollable.
As I continued to grow up, she allowed me to continually develop my love for animals. I was forever bringing them home---tadpoles, injured birds, pet toads and even snakes. She let me have cats and kittens on our back porch and I had white mice as pets.
Thanks mom, for the genes that you passed on to me and to Judi and Gary. These same genes we have passed on to our children and grandchildren. We are a family that loves animals and our hope is this carries on for generations to come.
September
, 2008
A
"paws" for pets
By Gail
Nordlund
"Buddy -
he was Bill's dog"
My neighborhood has
changed this
summer. First, the Allen's across the street moved to a new home
and of course took their little rat terrier, Lady, with them. I
miss seeing Lawrence take Lady on her daily walks, no matter what the
weather was like.
Then, this
past week, a
familiar bark was silenced, in the loss of Buddy, my next
door neighbor, Bill Drury's dog. For the past ten years, I
have watched Buddy, a Lhasa Apso, from my dining room window as he
strutted around his yard, occasionally slipping over to my front steps
to finish off the cat's food I had set out. This drove my dog,
Kunta, to near insanity and he would bark furiously at him through
the window, but it never fazed Buddy. Buddy patrolled his yard
like a little general and he would let you know if you got a little too
close. That was his domain and his joy in life was protecting
what was his - and Bill's.
He was a one man dog
- he loved Bill
and Bill adored him. They were best friends and I was
shocked to learn from Bill that Buddy was nineteen years old at the
time of his death. Nineteen ! I would never have guessed it
. It was just two years ago that Buddy was the neighborhood hero,
at least in the eyes of two young girls. They were passing by on
the sidewalk across the street when a large neighborhood dog started
chasing them. I think the dog was just playing, but the girls
were frightened and began to scream.
We were all working
in our yards at
the time and I saw Buddy run across the street and attack the big dog,
who was four times his size. A brief scuffle ensued before the
dog's owners came to separate them. I watched in amazement that
this tough little guy would do that, but Buddy knew no fear.
I knew first
hand about Buddy's
toughness because I met him several years before I moved into the
neighborhood. Buddy must have followed someone and got
disorientated and ended up north of York on HW 81. I got the call
and went out to try and pick him up. He would not let me near him
and continued running down the middle of the highway, on a
mission to find his home. I feared for Buddy's life as I saw
a car approaching, never attempting to slow down. She ran right
over Buddy and in horror I saw him go up underneath her car and spit
right back out again onto the highway. I thought he was
dying for he was spinning in circles. I looked and saw a
semi bearing down on us, so I rushed out and grabbed Buddy,
getting bit in the process. I rushed him to the vet and amazingly
enough, he checked out with only minor abrasions.
Unbelievable! When a grateful Bill came to pick him up, Buddy was
delighted to see him and wiggled and wagged and one would never have
guessed what he had just gone through.
He had one
special dog friend, a
golden retriever mix from down the street. When she came to
visit, Buddy would beg to go outside and they would play like puppies.
Inside
Buddy's home was his pal
"Little Sister", Bill's cat. They ate and slept together and she
is wondering where he has gone, searching every room.
I knew
something wasn't right
several weeks ago . I was bringing my dog, Kunta, back from his
walk in the park and we crossed Bill's yard to get to mine. I
looked over and saw Buddy sitting in the yard, but he didn't bark at
Kunta like he usually did. He just watched us. Kunta must
have sensed something too, because he did not bark either.
The two passed each other in respectful silence. That was the
last time I saw him. Buddy has crossed the Rainbow.
Bridge. He is
young again and
happily playing with all of the other dogs in the lush grass. But
he pauses occasionally and stares in the distance. He doesn't
want to miss Bill when he comes to get him.
November
, 2008
A
"paws" for pets
By Gail
Nordlund
"The Right Genes"
You can feel it in the air. The chill from the
north wind is telling us that winter is just around the corner.
As I sit at my dining room table, sipping my morning coffee, I watch
the squirrels as they greedily finish off the ears of corn that I just
put out yesterday. They sit side by side with the doves ,
raiding their bird feeder, but they seem to be in harmony with
each other, sharing the food. The finches and smaller birds are
clinging to their feeders with a sense of urgency. I am putting
out new suet cakes every other day. They know they must fatten up
before the snow falls. My birds and squirrels need not worry, for
I will always have food for them. My sister, Judi, swears that
half of the squirrels from the nearby park have found their way to my
home. Maybe, but I don't care. They provide me with lots of
enjoyment. If there has
been one constant
in my life, it is my love for animals and it goes back as far as I can
remember. If one were to analyze why I am this way, I think you
would have to look at the genes that I inherited from my mother, Esther
Frandsen. She cared deeply for animals. As a child, I can
recall her tearing up old bread and throwing it out to the birds during
the cold winter days. Many a time, as we rode in the car,
she would comment on seeing a single horse standing in a pasture,
saying it was sad to see a horse alone, without a companion. She
said animals should always have another to keep them happy and
content. To this day, I feel the same sadness when I see a
horse standing alone.
My mom was the
one who took me
to pick out the very first dog of my own, Rusty. She was
wise enough to wait until I was old enough to care for the puppy
myself. I was ten. She then explained to me the proper
way to care for Rusty and also told me when it was time to
spay her and the reasons for doing so. She offered me
responsibility and I willingly accepted it.
She was the one who
let me keep a box
full of baby chickens, even though I had not sought permission to
bring them home. I was twelve years old at the time and had read
an ad in the York paper that if you purchased a bag of feed, you could
have fifty baby chicks. I felt that was too good an offer to pass
up, so I took my allowance, walked from our home near East Hill
park, downtown to the hatchery, and purchased the feed. I could
only carry a box big enough to hold twenty six of them, but I was okay
with that and carried them back up the hill to our home. It never
even occurred to me that mom would be displeased. And she was,
but despite that fact, she helped me get all of the supplies that I
needed to care for the chicks, that were now residing in our
kitchen. I got great joy out of hearing them chirp all day and
holding them and watching them grow. And grow they did
! It was not long after they started turning white and jumping
out of their pen, that mom found a nice farm home for them.
That same year, I had a traumatic experience that I will never forget, even though I wish I could. Mom had gone out back to take out the trash and I heard her scream. I raced to see what was wrong and she pointed out three rats in our garage near the garbage cans. She was terrified of them. I wanted to come to her rescue, I guess, so I got my BB gun , mistakenly thinking I could easily dispose of them for her. I shot them, one by one, but not before there were tears streaming down my cheeks because I didn't realize how many BB's it would take to kill a rat. I had to reload my gun and finally.... finally, they were dead. By then, my sobbing was uncontrollable.
I knew I had to
finish what I had
started and it went against everything I was. Maybe if I could
have had a clean kill and done it quickly, it would not haunt me so
much. I have never needlessly harmed an animal since. Mom
felt badly for me and tried to reassure me that we could not have rats
in our garage. But, it didn't stop the nightmares that I
had for a long time.
As I continued to grow up, she allowed me to continually develop my love for animals. I was forever bringing them home---tadpoles, injured birds, pet toads and even snakes. She let me have cats and kittens on our back porch and I had white mice as pets.
When I became
an adult, she
loved sharing time with the pets that our families had . She
loved to hear the rescue stories that Judi and I shared with her.
She babysat our dogs when we went on vacation. Even, in her last
days at the nursing home, she welcomed the service dogs that came to
her room and she was the happiest when we brought our small dogs to sit
on her lap.
Thanks mom, for the genes that you passed on to me and to Judi and Gary. These same genes we have passed on to our children and grandchildren. We are a family that loves animals and our hope is this carries on for generations to come.
Age
knows no
boundaries when it comes to
man and dog. Such is the case
with retired physician, Harold Nordlund, and his young dog, Audrey. She
is a beautiful female collie that came into his care by way of York
Adopt-A-Pet.
I picked Audrey up from a young lady that was moving ... an excuse I’d heard before ... “the dog can't go with me.”
So, sadly, treated like a piece of furniture the dog gets left behind. When I went to pick up Audrey, I found her chained to a tree behind the house. She was soaking wet from the violent thunderstorm that had occurred the night before. Her food was soggy and she was curled up in a ball on the ground. As I exited my car, she quickly jumped up and her feet began to dance as I approached her. I snapped a leash on her and she willingly jumped into my car, but not before I deposited the chain that held her in a nearby garbage can, just so the next renter would not be tempted to hook another dog to the tree.
I transported Audrey to Harold and Judi Nordlund’s home as they had agreed in advance to foster her. By the end of the week, she had been groomed, spayed and received her vaccinations. A transformation had taken place. Audrey turned into an absolutely gorgeous dog.
She soon worked herself into their hearts, especially Harold's. He wanted to keep her, but Judi was reluctant. Their older schnauzer, Phoebe, was experiencing serious medical problems and she didn't want to put any more stress on her by bringing a new dog into the house. Harold had lost his German shepherd, Lady, earlier in the year and Judi knew he missed having a dog by his side when he worked in the yard. So she offered a suggestion. If they kept Audrey, he was to be her primary caregiver. Almost immediately, Harold had Audrey positioned in the front yard learning basic commands. He fed her and took her for walks. She soon became his dog.
Phoebe, after a few snit-fits, adapted to Audrey's presence and they have become pals, chasing each other through the house.
At mealtime, Audrey patiently watches Phoebe eat her food and cleans up any remains before turning to her own dish. She waits in anticipation as Phoebe receives her evening insulin shot for she knows that they both will receive a treat when it is done. Audrey has a language all of her own and will talk to you, expecting everyone to listen to what she has to say.
Harold enrolled her in a basic obedience class at K-9 Learning Center. I had the pleasure of attending their graduation ceremony and she passed with flying colors.
She spends her days outside with Harold, in the yard, playing with the many toads and unsuccessfully trying to dig ground squirrels out of the field. What a contrast to the life she had led before she was rescued. She now has what we all would call the good life ... living inside, riding in the car, taking daily walks, even walking in parades and most importantly, has quality time and and the love of her owners.
I would wish this life for every dog. But I cannot help, as I pass by a chained dog, to wonder what kind of personality lies inside him, unable to show itself, because of the chain that smothers its will. Some never will get the chance to express who they really are. The cute antics will stay hidden.
My plea, if this applies to you, is to unhook your dog, take him inside for awhile. Give him some neck rubs and scratch his belly and talk kindly to him. Take him for a walk and let him smell new things. He will reward you ten times over — just ask Harold.
I picked Audrey up from a young lady that was moving ... an excuse I’d heard before ... “the dog can't go with me.”
So, sadly, treated like a piece of furniture the dog gets left behind. When I went to pick up Audrey, I found her chained to a tree behind the house. She was soaking wet from the violent thunderstorm that had occurred the night before. Her food was soggy and she was curled up in a ball on the ground. As I exited my car, she quickly jumped up and her feet began to dance as I approached her. I snapped a leash on her and she willingly jumped into my car, but not before I deposited the chain that held her in a nearby garbage can, just so the next renter would not be tempted to hook another dog to the tree.
I transported Audrey to Harold and Judi Nordlund’s home as they had agreed in advance to foster her. By the end of the week, she had been groomed, spayed and received her vaccinations. A transformation had taken place. Audrey turned into an absolutely gorgeous dog.
She soon worked herself into their hearts, especially Harold's. He wanted to keep her, but Judi was reluctant. Their older schnauzer, Phoebe, was experiencing serious medical problems and she didn't want to put any more stress on her by bringing a new dog into the house. Harold had lost his German shepherd, Lady, earlier in the year and Judi knew he missed having a dog by his side when he worked in the yard. So she offered a suggestion. If they kept Audrey, he was to be her primary caregiver. Almost immediately, Harold had Audrey positioned in the front yard learning basic commands. He fed her and took her for walks. She soon became his dog.
Phoebe, after a few snit-fits, adapted to Audrey's presence and they have become pals, chasing each other through the house.
At mealtime, Audrey patiently watches Phoebe eat her food and cleans up any remains before turning to her own dish. She waits in anticipation as Phoebe receives her evening insulin shot for she knows that they both will receive a treat when it is done. Audrey has a language all of her own and will talk to you, expecting everyone to listen to what she has to say.
Harold enrolled her in a basic obedience class at K-9 Learning Center. I had the pleasure of attending their graduation ceremony and she passed with flying colors.
She spends her days outside with Harold, in the yard, playing with the many toads and unsuccessfully trying to dig ground squirrels out of the field. What a contrast to the life she had led before she was rescued. She now has what we all would call the good life ... living inside, riding in the car, taking daily walks, even walking in parades and most importantly, has quality time and and the love of her owners.
I would wish this life for every dog. But I cannot help, as I pass by a chained dog, to wonder what kind of personality lies inside him, unable to show itself, because of the chain that smothers its will. Some never will get the chance to express who they really are. The cute antics will stay hidden.
My plea, if this applies to you, is to unhook your dog, take him inside for awhile. Give him some neck rubs and scratch his belly and talk kindly to him. Take him for a walk and let him smell new things. He will reward you ten times over — just ask Harold.
Friday, August 28, 2008
By
LaMoine Roth
We
have had cats and
kittens coming into
the Sanctuary fast and furious
these past summer months. Just last week, three kittens were left in a
cardboard box in front of Gloysteins door, Dr. Jennifer McCartney found
them as she made early rounds Sunday morning. That same morning, a
young man dropped off a little kitten found on the highway north of
Henderson. I retrieved a stray cat from the grounds of the Nebraska
Center for Women. Another woman brought in a found mother and three
babies. Another couple found two small kittens dumped by their mailbox
north of McCool. This is just a small portion of new cats and kittens
that we received within the last several days.
This is the story of one of those cats, Little Willie. Last Friday I received a call from Claudia who works at Gloysteins Veterinary. She said "LaMoine I have a man standing in front of me who found this kitten up on the Platte River while fishing. You will need to make a decision on this little guy as he has a definite problem."
I said I would be right up, and asked to speak to the man who had brought the kitten in. He explained that he was from out of town and was in York visiting his father. He had headed up to do a little fishing on the Platte River. As he was fishing the banks of the Platte, Little Willie comes walking up to him from out of the weeds near the river. He said "I just couldn't walk back to my car and leave him standing there, so I brought him to York and someone said that there was a place that took in stray cats and kittens." He left a donation for Little Willie's care. When I first saw Little Willie I did a double take, he had this huge tumor completely covering his right eye. Dr. Brad and Dr. Jennifer checked him out and said that unfortunately it wasn't a common cyst but was an actual tumor. His eye was not affected, but again unfortunately it was attached to his eyelid so removing the tumor meant he would be left with his eyesight but no eyelid to keep dust, dirt and infection from his eye.
When I first saw Little Willie he was in a holding kennel. When I walked up, this yellow little paw reached out through the metal bars and continued to paw the air until I reached in and picked him up. He immediately began to purr and his paws were constantly kneading on my hand.
Little Willie definitely had a medical "problem." I immediately made a decision whatever it took this little guy was going to get help. His eye and tumor were removed later that morning. He now has a tiny little slit where this huge tumor was weighting down his head. His surgery was a complete success. He has captured the hearts of the volunteers at the Cat Sanctuary. Several have donated their own money to help pay for his surgery. He loves the attention and rewards everyone with purring and head butts as his little paws are kneading constantly when he is petted or being talked to.
We have no idea how he came to be on a lonely river bank, but we are thankful that Mitch and his donation for the care of Little Willie. We are thankful that he didn't leave this little guy to meet the future on his own. We are thankful our volunteers not only donated money for his surgery but gave him the attention and care. We are thankful for the staff and veterinarians at Gloystein's for checking him in and performing the surgery so quickly and efficiently. And, in a classic ending, I am happy to announce that Little Willie was adopted this morning.
Nancy, who lives in Chester called several weeks ago asking if we would call her when we received a white kitten. I first met Nancy a year ago when she had adopted a nearly blind kitten. I knew from visiting with her that she was a very special lady. Ironically the litter left on this past Sunday morning included 2 white kittens. I e-mailed her pictures and since we had just received Little Willie I included his picture as well. When she left today, she had both white kittens and Little Willie tucked into her carrier. They are three lucky little kittens; they truly have found a "forever" home.
It’s just not one person saving a cat or kitten, but the effort of many people. You can be a part of that effort to save kittens and cats such as Little Willie with a tax free donation to the Cat Sanctuary.
If you are a cat owner, consider donating on behalf of your cat or kitten. They would be helping the less fortunate felines brought to the Cat Sanctuary. We also welcome donations of scoopable litter and canned Friskies. Canned Friskies is used to entice sick cats and kittens to eat and to keep up their strength as they are recuperating. It is also used for our very young kittens to help sustain them until they can eat hard cat food. Please be part of our effort and you too will have the satisfaction of knowing that you can make a difference. Little Willie, Tamera & Teague can attest to that!
A 'paws' for pets
A 'paws' for pets
This
is the story of "Lil Feist". He was brought to the Sanctuary on
May 7, 2008. He came in with 3 siblings; a woman had found them
near her home and didn't know if they had been abandoned by humans or
if something had happened to their mother. She only knew that
they had not eaten for quite some time and she called to see if she
could bring them to the Sanctuary. As I have previously, this has
been a record breaking year for the number of cats and kittens that
have arrived at the Can Sanctuary. We have surpassed the total
number of cats for 2007 and this is only July. Without the
volunteers who help with our cats and kittens we just couldn't keep up
with the numbers of "throw away" cats and kittens. Lil Feist was
so tiny and yet so feisty he easily came into his name. I weighed
him today and he weighs "almost" a pound. His brother Buds was
also weighed and he weighs 3 lbs 1/4 oz. So you can see that Lil'
Feist has a ways to go to catch up with his brother. One of the
reasons he is "bottle bound". By that phrase I mean that he
refuses to eat unless it is by a "baby bottle". He won't eat
kitten food, and he won't eat canned food, he just wants his
bottle. He is in the first kennel as you walk into the Cat House,
and the minute the door is opened he is literally bouncing off the
walls meowing at the top of his longs. I have learned to have the
"bottle" ready and pre-warmed so that he can get his bottle
instanteously. You must be careful when you open his kennel door
because he reminds you of one of those flying squirrels. He
literally flies out the door and if you wouldn't catch him he would
land 3 feet below. I have found that by opening the door just a
little he will grab my arm by his ten "sharp" little claws and starts
his frenzied clawing for the bottle. I have learned to hold his
two front paws as he doesn't stop his struggles until he has at least 2
or 3 of his front paws as he doesn't stop his struggles until he has at
least 2 or 3 of his claws caught in the quick of my finger nails.
Any one who has ever fed baby kittens will know what I am talking
about, and for those that haven't you really are not missing
experience. Trust me…
I have added cereal and canned cat food to the milk as he simply refuses to eat, he is so busy thrashing to get to me for the bottle that he knows I have, that he passed up the fresh tidbits of cat food. Deb Sanders says I have him spoiled and I have to admit that I do, but he is so TINY that I am afraid to take his bottle away for feat that he will loose ground. He is a "natty" looking little guy, his immune system is probably not the best, he has battled conjunctivitis and ring worm and his scrawny little body wouldn't win any "calendar" cat awards but he is a fighter and even though his brother is 2 1/2 sizes bigger, he rules the Cat Sanctuary. When he gets free from his kennel he doesn't simply walk, but he reminds me of one of those trained stepping horses. He literally prances when he walks or as I should say when he runs, as he runs from cat to cat almost as if he is saying "hey I may be little and natty, but I am a happy kitten and I have LaMoine snowed, because I'm still on the bottle."
I can't believe that I have been bottle feeding this little guy for 10 weeks. He is probably about 4 1/2 months old is still just 16 oz. He eats at least 1/2 his weight in milk every day. He not only holds the record for bottle feeding time, but also being the tiniest kitten I have ever cared for. He won't be ready for adoption until he is "bottle broke" and when he is adopted the family that receive him will be in for the time of their lives. His personality is so outgoing, he rushes through life as if he can't believe that he has survived and he is just happy to be alive. We have several other kittens that have faced health obstacles and are now improving daily. Little Clay had a bout with calicivirus but is responding to his medication and the same is for Hayden who has had a bout with conjunctivitis which is common in kittens but for some can be longer to cure. All of the kittens at the Cat Sanctuary are watched and cared for as if we had only 2 or 3……………we are well known at Gloysteins Veterinary clinic. They are so willing to work with our large cat and kitten population and regardless of how busy and hectic they may be; they always somehow, manage to work us in throughout the day. After all these little balls of fur depend on us and we can't let them down. Just ask Lil' Feist (if you can manage to get his attention) long enough in between feedings. Speaking of feedings it's that time of day again…………..
This is the story of one of those cats, Little Willie. Last Friday I received a call from Claudia who works at Gloysteins Veterinary. She said "LaMoine I have a man standing in front of me who found this kitten up on the Platte River while fishing. You will need to make a decision on this little guy as he has a definite problem."
I said I would be right up, and asked to speak to the man who had brought the kitten in. He explained that he was from out of town and was in York visiting his father. He had headed up to do a little fishing on the Platte River. As he was fishing the banks of the Platte, Little Willie comes walking up to him from out of the weeds near the river. He said "I just couldn't walk back to my car and leave him standing there, so I brought him to York and someone said that there was a place that took in stray cats and kittens." He left a donation for Little Willie's care. When I first saw Little Willie I did a double take, he had this huge tumor completely covering his right eye. Dr. Brad and Dr. Jennifer checked him out and said that unfortunately it wasn't a common cyst but was an actual tumor. His eye was not affected, but again unfortunately it was attached to his eyelid so removing the tumor meant he would be left with his eyesight but no eyelid to keep dust, dirt and infection from his eye.
When I first saw Little Willie he was in a holding kennel. When I walked up, this yellow little paw reached out through the metal bars and continued to paw the air until I reached in and picked him up. He immediately began to purr and his paws were constantly kneading on my hand.
Little Willie definitely had a medical "problem." I immediately made a decision whatever it took this little guy was going to get help. His eye and tumor were removed later that morning. He now has a tiny little slit where this huge tumor was weighting down his head. His surgery was a complete success. He has captured the hearts of the volunteers at the Cat Sanctuary. Several have donated their own money to help pay for his surgery. He loves the attention and rewards everyone with purring and head butts as his little paws are kneading constantly when he is petted or being talked to.
We have no idea how he came to be on a lonely river bank, but we are thankful that Mitch and his donation for the care of Little Willie. We are thankful that he didn't leave this little guy to meet the future on his own. We are thankful our volunteers not only donated money for his surgery but gave him the attention and care. We are thankful for the staff and veterinarians at Gloystein's for checking him in and performing the surgery so quickly and efficiently. And, in a classic ending, I am happy to announce that Little Willie was adopted this morning.
Nancy, who lives in Chester called several weeks ago asking if we would call her when we received a white kitten. I first met Nancy a year ago when she had adopted a nearly blind kitten. I knew from visiting with her that she was a very special lady. Ironically the litter left on this past Sunday morning included 2 white kittens. I e-mailed her pictures and since we had just received Little Willie I included his picture as well. When she left today, she had both white kittens and Little Willie tucked into her carrier. They are three lucky little kittens; they truly have found a "forever" home.
It’s just not one person saving a cat or kitten, but the effort of many people. You can be a part of that effort to save kittens and cats such as Little Willie with a tax free donation to the Cat Sanctuary.
If you are a cat owner, consider donating on behalf of your cat or kitten. They would be helping the less fortunate felines brought to the Cat Sanctuary. We also welcome donations of scoopable litter and canned Friskies. Canned Friskies is used to entice sick cats and kittens to eat and to keep up their strength as they are recuperating. It is also used for our very young kittens to help sustain them until they can eat hard cat food. Please be part of our effort and you too will have the satisfaction of knowing that you can make a difference. Little Willie, Tamera & Teague can attest to that!
Friday, August 1, 2008
By
LaMoine Roth
This
is the story of Duke, who I named after the mascot of York High
Dukes. It
seemed appropriate since he showed the fortitude of our local high
school mascot which has been the pride of the students of York High
School and the many alumni who have passed through the halls of our
local high school. I received a call on May 10th from Jan who
lives on Elmer Ave. She said that there had been a cat stranded
in a tree between the curb and the sidewalk. It had been windy
and our first really hot days of summer. I drove to Jan's house I
saw the tree that she had described but I couldn't see the cat.
Jan came out of the house and pointed up to a branch and sure enough
approximately 35 to 40 feet up, there sat a black cat hunched
down on a limb 3 to 4 feet out from the trunk of the tree. He/she
(I didn't know at that point) meowed and the more I called, the more he
meowed but wouldn't budge an inch. Jan said that he had not moved
from that spot since they had spotted him 3 days before.
After several attempts to entice him down I set a "live trap" at the base of the tree thinking that surely the fragrant aroma of salmon tidbits and a cup of ice cold water would lure him down in the wee hours of the night. I was surprised when arriving the next morning to see him still in the same position in the same spot as the previous day. The trap just as I left it, all of the salmon tidbits all of the water untouched. I made numerous trips on that day and with the wind gusts of up to 40 mile he sat starring down at me with his fur blowing in the wind and his plaintive meow continuing as if asking for help to get down from this lofty prison. Almost ALL cats that climb up a tree WILL come down the tree, but it is the key word ALMOST that comes into play. Duke seemed to be the cat that fit the "almost" because he was not budging, not for food, not for water, or continued cat calling from me.
I then enlisted the help of our animal control officer Christy. She sized up the situation and agreed that Duke needed help. Of course at that point we didn't know if Duke was a Duke or a Duchess or if he was going to be friendly or if he was going to be untouchable. We only knew that he was not coming down without help from someone. Christy said that she would figure something out. Meanwhile I headed south of Friend to deliver a somewhat feral mother and her 6 babies to a farmer who said she would take them if I would deliver them. This would be the perfect home for this little family since they could stay together and have the safety of a big friendly barn and plenty of food and water. Better than the lilac bush that they had been living under when they were discovered by a family in north York. While en route, my cell phone rang. Christy said that "Duke" had been rescued by a City Street Dept. Employee who used a bucket ladder to rescue Duke. I immediately asked if he was friendly or feral and she said, "he is very friendly, they plucked him from his perch and he was very content on his descent down in the hands of his rescuer." After the 3 day waiting period we took him to Gloysteins Clinic where he was tested for Felv, vaccinated and promptly neutered. Not surprisingly he was never claimed.
We have no idea where he came from, who he once belonged to. We know that he was once someone's pet since he is such an affectionate and loving cat. When I retrieved him from the vet clinic the next day he immediately settled into the sanctuary. He is just one of many of York's throw away cats. But it seemed appropriate to name him Duke since it was a collective effort of York's citizens that assured him of a safety retreat form his high windy perch. From Jan who first called York Adopt a Pet, my futile efforts of enticement, and Christy for co coordinating the efforts of the City of York Street Department.
If you are interested in adopting a very neat cat, consider Duke. He deserves so much more and with our help he will receive a better life and a "forever" home.Friday, July 18, 2008
By
LaMoine Roth
This
is the story of "Lil Feist". He was brought to the Sanctuary on
May 7, 2008. He came in with 3 siblings; a woman had found them
near her home and didn't know if they had been abandoned by humans or
if something had happened to their mother. She only knew that
they had not eaten for quite some time and she called to see if she
could bring them to the Sanctuary. As I have previously, this has
been a record breaking year for the number of cats and kittens that
have arrived at the Can Sanctuary. We have surpassed the total
number of cats for 2007 and this is only July. Without the
volunteers who help with our cats and kittens we just couldn't keep up
with the numbers of "throw away" cats and kittens. Lil Feist was
so tiny and yet so feisty he easily came into his name. I weighed
him today and he weighs "almost" a pound. His brother Buds was
also weighed and he weighs 3 lbs 1/4 oz. So you can see that Lil'
Feist has a ways to go to catch up with his brother. One of the
reasons he is "bottle bound". By that phrase I mean that he
refuses to eat unless it is by a "baby bottle". He won't eat
kitten food, and he won't eat canned food, he just wants his
bottle. He is in the first kennel as you walk into the Cat House,
and the minute the door is opened he is literally bouncing off the
walls meowing at the top of his longs. I have learned to have the
"bottle" ready and pre-warmed so that he can get his bottle
instanteously. You must be careful when you open his kennel door
because he reminds you of one of those flying squirrels. He
literally flies out the door and if you wouldn't catch him he would
land 3 feet below. I have found that by opening the door just a
little he will grab my arm by his ten "sharp" little claws and starts
his frenzied clawing for the bottle. I have learned to hold his
two front paws as he doesn't stop his struggles until he has at least 2
or 3 of his front paws as he doesn't stop his struggles until he has at
least 2 or 3 of his claws caught in the quick of my finger nails.
Any one who has ever fed baby kittens will know what I am talking
about, and for those that haven't you really are not missing
experience. Trust me…I have added cereal and canned cat food to the milk as he simply refuses to eat, he is so busy thrashing to get to me for the bottle that he knows I have, that he passed up the fresh tidbits of cat food. Deb Sanders says I have him spoiled and I have to admit that I do, but he is so TINY that I am afraid to take his bottle away for feat that he will loose ground. He is a "natty" looking little guy, his immune system is probably not the best, he has battled conjunctivitis and ring worm and his scrawny little body wouldn't win any "calendar" cat awards but he is a fighter and even though his brother is 2 1/2 sizes bigger, he rules the Cat Sanctuary. When he gets free from his kennel he doesn't simply walk, but he reminds me of one of those trained stepping horses. He literally prances when he walks or as I should say when he runs, as he runs from cat to cat almost as if he is saying "hey I may be little and natty, but I am a happy kitten and I have LaMoine snowed, because I'm still on the bottle."
I can't believe that I have been bottle feeding this little guy for 10 weeks. He is probably about 4 1/2 months old is still just 16 oz. He eats at least 1/2 his weight in milk every day. He not only holds the record for bottle feeding time, but also being the tiniest kitten I have ever cared for. He won't be ready for adoption until he is "bottle broke" and when he is adopted the family that receive him will be in for the time of their lives. His personality is so outgoing, he rushes through life as if he can't believe that he has survived and he is just happy to be alive. We have several other kittens that have faced health obstacles and are now improving daily. Little Clay had a bout with calicivirus but is responding to his medication and the same is for Hayden who has had a bout with conjunctivitis which is common in kittens but for some can be longer to cure. All of the kittens at the Cat Sanctuary are watched and cared for as if we had only 2 or 3……………we are well known at Gloysteins Veterinary clinic. They are so willing to work with our large cat and kitten population and regardless of how busy and hectic they may be; they always somehow, manage to work us in throughout the day. After all these little balls of fur depend on us and we can't let them down. Just ask Lil' Feist (if you can manage to get his attention) long enough in between feedings. Speaking of feedings it's that time of day again…………..
Friday, July 5, 2008
By
LaMoine Roth
If it wasn't so stressful I would almost think that we are filming a reality show highlighting our daily lives working in the rescue & care of the dozen and dozens of cats and kittens residing at the Cat Sanctuary. We have received a mother cat and 6 babies by way of a person who was quoted as saying, either you take them, or I am heading to the country and dumping them. The mother turned out to be de-clawed and all six of the little yellow and white kittens deserved more than a one way trip to the country. At least they were given the chance and are now residing at the Sanctuary. A beautiful little white kitten w/blue eyes was found on south 81 near the Pizza Hut and when I say on, the lady who rescued him picked him off the busy high way. Two more were left unattended and abandoned in a rental property. One small kitten was brought to a door step by the family dog. However they arrive it is only a matter of time until they have settled into their new environment, learning to share their food, water, space and attention. Since my last article asking for volunteers, we thankfully had 4 people who have called and are now helping with out with our large cat population.
We
have so many kittens, young adults and those who are our senior
citizens. These
are the cats that have most generally come from a loving home and
because their owners can no longer care for them, they have been
relinquished to the Cat Sanctuary. These cats are the ones that
continually get passed over for the young playful and more affectionate
cats. Currently we have 4 to 5 "senior cats". I know first
hand how difficult it is for these cats to adjust to not only a new
home, but one shared with so many other cats. To
explain it more easily it is like grandma giving up her home and moving
into a college dorm with dozens and dozens of young women. It is
bewildering and many retreat into their own world. Some tolerate
it more than others, but all have a huge adjustment. Recently we
had such a cat named Jasmine who was approximately 15 years old.
She was a de-clawed spayed female, beautiful long hair grey &
white. Her owner had to move and couldn't take her with
her. She was with us for several weeks when I received a call
from Judy. She said she wanted to adopt a cat that would be hard
to adopt. I immediately thought of Jasmine. It worked out
well, Jasmine has settled in and I am thankful that she can live her
remaining years in a secure and loving home. And
thankfully there are people like Judy who see and understand that these
cats just need a small space to enjoy their remaining years. We
have also placed 3 elderly cats that were received from McCool.
Their owner had passed away suddenly. Two of the cats were
particularly bonded and I am happy to say that they were adopted
together by a caring lady from Columbus. They were all long hair
and would take extra care with their grooming. The
new owner took them to her vet immediately for a grooming appointment
and she reported back to me that they were settling in with their new
hair cuts and baths.
And so brings us to Rascal. A black and white elderly male, approximately 14 years old. He is hard of hearing and spends most of his days sleeping in his favorite spot that he has claimed as "his space". He doesn't require much care; he is simply a peaceful reflection of a mellow lap cat. He once had his own home and when his owner passed away, he found his way to us through York's Senior Service. Lori contacted us to see if we could take Rascal. We don't regret our decision. Rascal may end up spending his remaining years with us but that’s okay. The volunteers humor him, let him sleep and give him loving pats when he acknowledges our presence. There is peacefulness in him. While the kittens are rolling and playing with one another, the adult cats are staking their social levels with an occasional squabble, or sharing a food dish you see Rascal curled up asleep dreaming of what cats might dream and we know that he has passed the three seasons of life and is now in his final season. He doesn't know that he is a "senior" cat. He only knows that it is good to have a full bowl of food and fresh water and his on going nap time. And maybe someday someone will walk through the door and take him to his forever home. And if that doesn't happen, then he will remain with us. For however long his final season may last, he will always have a home at the Cat Sanctuary.
Friday, June 20, 2008
By
LaMoine Roth
If
it wasn't so stressful I would almost think that we are filming a
reality show highlighting our daily lives working in the rescue &
care of the dozen and dozens of cats and kittens residing at the Cat
Sanctuary. We have received a mother cat and 6
babies by way of a person who was quoted as saying, either you take
them, or I am heading to the country and dumping them. The
mother turned out to be de-clawed and all six of the little yellow and
white kittens deserved more than a one way trip to the country.
At least they were given the chance and are now residing at the
Sanctuary. A
beautiful little white kitten w/blue eyes was found on south 81 near
the Pizza Hut and when I say on, the lady who rescued him picked him
off the busy high way. Two more were left unattended and
abandoned in a rental property. One small kitten was brought to a
door step by the family dog. However
they arrive it is only a matter of time until they have settled into
their new environment, learning to share their food, water, space and
attention. Since my last article asking for
volunteers, we thankfully had 4 people who have called and are now
helping with out with our large cat population.
We have so many kittens, young adults and those who are our senior
citizens. These
are the cats that have most generally come from a loving home and
because their owners can no longer care for them, they have been
relinquished to the Cat Sanctuary. These cats are the ones that
continually get passed over for the young playful and more affectionate
cats. Currently we have 4 to 5 "senior cats". I know first
hand how difficult it is for these cats to adjust to not only a new
home, but one shared with so many other cats. To
explain it more easily it is like grandma giving up her home and moving
into a college dorm with dozens and dozens of young women. It is
bewildering and many retreat into their own world. Some tolerate
it more than others, but all have a huge adjustment. Recently we
had such a cat named Jasmine who was approximately 15 years old.
She was a de-clawed spayed female, beautiful long hair grey &
white. Her owner had to move and couldn't take her with
her. She was with us for several weeks when I received a call
from Judy. She said she wanted to adopt a cat that would be hard
to adopt. I immediately thought of Jasmine. It worked out
well, Jasmine has settled in and I am thankful that she can live her
remaining years in a secure and loving home. And
thankfully there are people like Judy who see and understand that these
cats just need a small space to enjoy their remaining years. We
have also placed 3 elderly cats that were received from McCool.
Their owner had passed away suddenly. Two of the cats were
particularly bonded and I am happy to say that they were adopted
together by a caring lady from Columbus. They were all long hair
and would take extra care with their grooming. The
new owner took them to her vet immediately for a grooming appointment
and she reported back to me that they were settling in with their new
hair cuts and baths.
And so brings us to Rascal. A black and white elderly male,
approximately 14 years old. He is hard of hearing and spends most
of his days sleeping in his favorite spot that he has claimed as "his
space". He doesn't require much care; he is simply a peaceful
reflection of a mellow lap cat. He once had his own home and when
his owner passed away, he found his way to us through York's Senior
Service. Lori contacted us to see if we could take Rascal.
We don't regret our decision. Rascal may end up spending his
remaining years with us but that’s okay. The volunteers
humor him, let him sleep and give him loving pats when he acknowledges
our presence. There is peacefulness in him. While
the kittens are rolling and playing with one another, the adult cats
are staking their social levels with an occasional squabble, or sharing
a food dish you see Rascal curled up asleep dreaming of what cats might
dream and we know that he has passed the three seasons of life and is
now in his final season. He doesn't know that he is a "senior"
cat. He only knows that it is good to have a full bowl of food
and fresh water and his on going nap time. And maybe someday
someone will walk through the door and take him to his forever
home. And if that doesn't happen, then he will remain with
us. For however long his final season may last, he will always
have a home at the Cat Sanctuary.
If you look closely at the attached picture you will see a very tiny little kitten nestled next to her mother, Pam. "It" is so tiny that I don't know if "it" is a boy or girl. Pam came to us through the York Police Department. She and another cat had been left behind in a rental property. I received Pam on a Tuesday and knew shortly after picking her up that she was going to have her kittens soon. Soon meant within the hour. She was a very young mother, and unfortunately her litter of five "preemie" kittens were in trouble from the start. Sadly this little carbon copy of mother was the only survivor from this "throw away" mother to be. She is resting in her little bed sitting beside my desk in my office as I am typing her story. She will join the others after I know for certain that mother and baby are going to be comfortable enough to join the others in the Cat Sanctuary. This is just one of dozens that have arrived at the Cat Sanctuary in the past two weeks. We are BURSTING at the seams and although I tend to get stressed when the phone is ringing non stop to take in more cats and kittens, we do what we can and hopefully the adoptions will match the numbers that are coming in.
We receive many cats through word of mouth. At
this time of year every shelter is over flowing, and one shelter gives
the phone numbers of other shelters when they are full. Since we
are a "no kill shelter" people naturally want to place their cats and
kittens with us. Unfortunately
due to the fact that we are a "no kill" sometimes we are just so full
that we have to tell people that although we want to, we cannot receive
more until we can adopt some that are here at the shelter.
At times I am to blame for receiving cats & kittens without being
asked. I received an
e mail from the Iowa Veterinary Rapid Response Team. They were asking for help with the recent flooding in Iowa. Dogs, cats, horses to mention a few, were coming in at the rate of 25 per hour, and they were expecting the numbers to reach over 1,000. I read the message and thought I just can't do any more, we have so many cats as it is, BUT after thinking about it I thought what if this flooding was in our Nebraska, what if it were York County, what if it were my e mail asking for help and no one answered my request for help? Sooooooo I picked up the phone and called the number they listed. Thankfully they said that things were under control as far as caring for the animals, they had a good response and help had arrived. Scot, who was in charge, said that PetCo & Pet Smart were donating the food, kennels had been donated and starting this Thursday they were allowing the public to come into the temporary shelters to claim their pets. But, as with Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana many of these animals will never be claimed. That’s where shelters like ours can help. These animals living in temporary conditions become stressed and this lowers their immune systems. They need to be placed as soon as possible. Scot asked me if we could take any cats that were not claimed……………I only briefly hesitated before assuring him that we could take what we could. He said that he would be calling me soon and asked if I would ask other shelters in our area if they could also take a few. I thought if each shelter in the surrounding states of Iowa could take a few then the problem could be solved. We were able to receive 10 from the Katrina Hurricane and adopted all 10. I will keep you posted in future Paws for Pets on the Iowa Flood Cats…….
So on behalf of Pam the new mother, the flood cats and kittens I will
probably be receiving soon I am going to
ask……….. "Can you help volunteer at the Cat
Sanctuary"? If
you are reading this then hopefully you are interested in the welfare
of our York County's lost abandoned and abused cats and kittens, as
well as cats and kittens displaced by natural disasters. The
commitment is small compared to the rewards you receive when you are
surrounded by purring, contented cats and playful sweet kittens.
To volunteer is easy just call me at 362-4908. We
have a monthly calendar and you can sign up for one morning or evening,
once a week, or once a month, whatever fits your schedule. The
duties are easy, putting out fresh food and water, cleaning litter
boxes and the very best part, playing with the cats and
kittens. Our volunteers that we have will attest that the
work is light, the rewards are huge. So please if you have the
time, have a fondness for cats consider helping us help the cats and
kittens at the Cat Sanctuary. We also welcome foster homes,
especially for those cats that are so stressed from being misplaced
from a quiet home.
Friday, June 6, 2008
By
LaMoine Roth