Friday, April 24, 2009

Pet Survivor Program





Nikko and Gypsy are two very sweet senior dogs that came into Hopalong through our Pet Survivor Program. Nikko, the white 15 year old male, and Gypsy, the black 11 year old female, became part of the Hopalong family when their ailing owner had to move into an assisted living facility that didn't allow pets. Because he made arrangements for them prior to entering the facility, we ensured that these two sweet, family dogs never entered a public shelter.

Many people love their pets like family, but few people actually create a plan in the event of tragedy. It can be difficult to think about these things, but it would be even more difficult for these (often older) pets if they ended up in the shelter system.

Friday, April 10, 2009

Kittens Are Here!

It seems to be that time of year again: the days are longer, the weather is warmer, the flowers are in bloom and kittens are popping up everywhere. As a rescue worker, kittens always bring mixed emotions. All year long we work with people educating them about the importance of spay and neuter; but every year, we see kittens in shelters by the hundreds. And while it saddens me to see all these kittens, I also get that warm fuzzy feeling when I pick them up and they start purring in your ear.

Meet Paul:


Paul is one of the first kittens of this year. We estimate his birthdate to be at the end of January. Both paul and his brother Bert, were born to a feral mom. They were rescued early and with the help of some great foster moms, we were able to socialize them. We neutered them, tested them for Feline Leukemia and FIV. They have been de-wormed, vaccinated and microchiped. Both are now available for adoption.

The first kittens are always exciting. And I always have to remind myself that we wouldn't have so many great kittens if we didn't have so many great foster parents to care for them until they are ready to be adopted out.




Oh, yeah. . .we were able to get mom fixed too.