Messages From Adopted Cats' New Families1

Maggie

Maggie and my Cavalier puppy, Bella, have become buddies! They both sleep in bed with me and where Bella goes, Maggie goes. Unfortunately I wasnt able to get a picture of the two of them trying to open the cupboard where we keep the cat and dog treats. They worked on it together for at least 5 minutes! Maggie has now decided that she will watch me work all day from the bed (towel) on my desk. I thought she would grow tired of this quickly, but she just loves to be right where I am. Laurie

UPDATE: I wanted to send you and updated picture of Maggie, now that her hair has grown back. She is very sweet and is always with me and her best friend, Bella, my Cavalier. This picture is in my home office where she and Bella snooze away the day. Laurie

Beautiful Boy

I picked up "Beautiful Boy" on Monday and he is exactly that, beautiful! Just wanted to let everyone know that although he is a bit shy, he just loves having my apartment all to himself, and last night he hopped on my bed at 1AM and gave my hand a little kiss!

Brutus and Mr. French

Our story starts in 2003 when we found a first wonderful Exotic Persian which we adopted from the animal shelter in Dublin, CA. His name was Mako and he reminded us of Garfield, but he was red and white. He blessed our house for a short year and a half. He died in his sleep, curled up in a ball peacefully at the end of our bed. My husband and I have always had animals in our lives and their loss is never easy no matter how long you have had them. My husband took Mako's death very hard

I did my homework and our prayers were answered when we found Wanda and PHCR It was instant love at first sight when we saw Brutus. He truly believe he must have been Mako's litter brother. Mako's previous family had purchased him from a breeder in the San Francisco area. Brutus was rescued by PHCR from the shelter in San Francisco and they were the same age. When we arrived at Wanda's it was like he knew we had come to see him. He put on his best smile and started with my husband and locked the deal with our two kids. Once we got home there was no adjustment period needed for Brutus. At the time we had 4 dogs (2 Newfoundlands and 2 Dauschunds). The Newfies wre no big deal and didn't mind the new addition. The Doxies were another story...they thought they were hunters! Boy, were they wrong! They both got a good swat to the nose (no claws out) and the heirarchy was established!! Brutus was king and the Doxies were his servants!

Our story does not end there. We live in the East Bay and it is hard for us to get to Mill Valley often. We saw that Wanda was having a Garage Sale/Fundraiser and my daughter, Mikayla, thought it would be good to go and at the same time help Wanda clean cages and brush cats. That was our intention anyway! We did some Garage Sale shopping, cleaning and brushing. Then here it came ..."Can I call Dad?" Mikayla said "He can be my birthday present - PLEASE!" So Dad gave in and Mr. French was on his way to his new forever home. It took him a little longer to adjust, but he has settled in beautifully. He enjoys the big dogs more than the little ones (can't blame him). We lost one of the Newfies, Dots, in Jan 2007, so Mr. French thought he ought to help Cookie adjust to life without her son and has been spending lots of time close to her or in her crate!! He likes to lay close to Cookie while we watch TV at night.

Before 2003 I would have said we were a dog family, especially my husband. Now things have definitely changed. It's a 50/50 race right now. (The cats might have a slight edge with the housebreaking advantage!) I know we will always have at least one big dog, one little dog and a Persian or two in our house forever. Thank you PHCR for all that you do and helping our family find their Forever Companions. Lisa, Jerry, Mikayla, Dakota, Cookie, Tootsie Roll, Hugs, Brutus and Mr. French

Peaches (previously Daffodil)

Peaches is a super cat and the best behaved cat either Tim or I have ever seen. She loves to play with her fur mice and enjoys lounging in her baskets which we have for her throughout the house. She is a big sister to Maddie and shares very well with her. When the two of them play together, it's very fun to watch. Peaches never tires of lying on her side to be petted and purrs loudly. She adores Tim and follows him around when he comes home from work. We feel so fortunate to have Peaches in our home as she is an integral part of our family and we love her dearly! Mary and Tim

Luna (previously Ashley)

A mom and her 8 year old girl adopted Ashley. The little girl renamed her Luna because she thought her new kitty was as 'beautiful as the Moon.' The mom, the little girl and Ashley are very, very happy together! The following is a wonderful note from the little girl:

"THANK YOU.........XOXO." Kimber Ann

Xanadu (previously Frisky)

It looks like we have a success story here! Last night Xanadu (previously Frisky) slept on my bed all night for the first time. I can sure see why she was named 'Frisky!' In the morning, after she's had her breakfast, she's a little calico ball of fire! Thank goodness I invested in one of those automated 'Panic Mouse' toys! She'll play with it vigorously, and then zoom back and forth between it and the image of it she sees in the closet door mirrors in the hallway. She is also fascinated with my photo-printer and every morning purposely walks back and forth on it until she steps on the button and turns it on. Her FAVORITE game is 'Bubbles.' If I blow bubbles over the space heater, they fly up to the ceiling and swirl around before finally coming within reach so she can swat them, or land on the floor where she can squash them. It's the kitty version of the 'Space Invaders' video game! If you should every happen to communicate with the vet where she was surrendered, or the lady that gave her up, be sure to let them know that she's very healthy and playful, that she seems to be EXTREMELY happy to be an only cat, and that she is very much loved and enjoyed by her new 'mom!' Julie

Beautiful

Please let it be known that our little girl, Beautiful, is doing just wonderfully in her new home. She has 'adopted' my other little guy, is so loved by all of us, and we are soooooooo appreciative of all of you at PHCR for taking care of her. She is a Gift. She is a Treasure. Thank you. Marie

Odin (previously Sunny)

I'm writing to let you know that Odin is doing GREAT!! He's only been with us for 2 weeks but he is already a dear part of our family. Loci, our 8 month old Tortie whom you microchipped for us) didn't really like him for the first week but, since then, they get along great. They like to play and wrestle and chase after one another all through the apartment. Loki isn't lonely any more and we couldn't be more pleased! Odin is so loving and has calmed Loki down a lot. They sleep together on the bed all the time and groom one another when they're not playing. Odin is fascinated by the fish in our aquariums and loves to sit and watch them. I just wanted to thank you again for all your help with him and Loki. We appreciate your kindness and support. We wish you and the rest of the kittens and kitties at your shelter a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Vicky

Gizmo

I just wanted to give you an update on Gizmo. I kept his name as he seems to know it very well. Gizmo is such a pleasure to have. He is a good boy and we just love him so much. He is very smart. He is very smart. If he doesn't like something he will complain - like don't put anything in the way of his favorite new resting spot or he will tell you to move it! His fur has gotten even longer - he is so gorgeous. He likes to be combed and never complains about it. He plays with his toys now and comes downstairs when we are there. If he wanted to be petted he will come and sit in front of us so that we know he wants some affection. He is very sweet. Thank you for providing us with such a wonderful cat! Inge and Jack

Gabriel (previously Harry)

I adopted Harry, now named Gabriel (or Gabe for short) and things are going great! I had been looking for the right fit with my cat, Mina (previously Maxine), who I had adopted from PHCR. When I came to visit Harry, I instantly fell in love and he instantly hit it off with Mina. The first night he slept under the covers with me and Mina slept on top of the covers on top of him. Gabe has fit into my household and is now part of the family. I couldn't imagine my life without him now. Gabe is the most affectionate and loving cat, and he couldn't be happier in his new home. I cannot thank Andrea and Wanda enough for saving his life and giving me the best holiday gift. THANK YOU! Amy

Zack (a/k/a Bingo)

I wanted you to know how very happy we are that Zack has come into our lives. When we adopted Zack we were warned about his infatuation with water. Our Zack, on occasion, will literally dip his whole face into the water bowl! He sits in the sink waiting for new drops of water to fall. He is forever running through the house chasing his toys, not bothered by the vacuum cleaner or hair dryer! Oh, did I mention that he loves to be bathed and combed as well! He gets along quite well with our 2 other cats and Australian Shepherd, not to mention our children, Scott, 9 and Robert, 4. Zack follows me wherever I go and licks my nose when he wants to let me know how happy he is to be part of our family. Zack is very, very special to all of us and our love for him continues to grow! A heartfelt 'thank you' Wanda for all that you do and the happiness you have bestowed on us! Tracie and Family

Molly

I adopted Moll (previously Tyra) in 1998 when she was a little over a year old. I just wanted to drop you a note to let you know we're both doing great and living in S. California. Molly is an absolute joy and I can't imagine my life without her. We both think of you often and send our love. I'm sending you a hug and Molly sends a purr. Angela

Charlie

I wanted to let you know how lucky and thankful I am to have adopted Charlie from you over 10 years ago! he is now 13 going on 14 years old. Charlie has been very healthy and still has a lot of his spunky personality. However, like his owner, he has slowed down quite a bit. I snapped this picture just yesterday. Charlie has many favorite spots for cat napping. Oh to be so relaxed! Lyn

Monty and Jack

I adopted Monty and my mom adopted Jack a couple of months ago and I wanted to send some photos of Monty, now known as Simon. He is growing every day! They are both big loves and we adore them! Heather

Yin and Yang a/k/a China and Coco

I just wanted to drop a line and let you know how the girls are doing almost a year after we adopted them. Both girls are now almost 10 lbs. and are truly a blessing. Coco (Yang) is totally obsessed with strings and white show laces are most fun to attack when you are trying to tie your shoes. China (Ying) has turned out to be extremely gentle and loving. She is very protective of Coco and is the queen of the house. They are both healthy and very happy. Thank you for the blessing that your work provides to us all. Kathy

BABY (Now Bijou)

We changed Baby's name to Bijou, which means 'Jewel' in French. She is so beautiful and so adorable. She's eating and using her litter box like a precious young lady. We are so delighted with our new daughter. What a perfect kitty she has turned out to be. She traveled with us to Fairfield and stayed with us at a relative's home for 4 days. There was lots of family coming and going and Bijou charmed them all! Everyone loved her and made such a fuss over her. She ate it up - a real ham. We are so happy to have found her. Harriette and Dick

ABE (Now Atticus)

I wanted to take a moment to let you know how Abe, not Atticus, has been doing. He is not what I would call best of friends with Cooper (my other cat) but they do get on well and play well together. Atticus is such a lover. He follows me wherever I go and sleeps by my head whenever I lie down - he is sitting on the back of the couch as I write this and is squeaking his little meow as if he knows that he is being talked about. Peace, Jack.

GISELLE (Now ELLIE)

Hi Wanda, I just wanted to let you know that Giselle is doing great! I have nicknamed her Ellie. She is a very sweet, smart girl. She was not afraid of her new home or our other cats, and now our other cats are quite tolerant of her. She was able to come out of her room on the third day without any problems. We absolutely love her! She reminds me a little bit of the very first Persian we had, very calm, content and smart. Thank you very much, Wendy.

PINKIE (Now SOPHIE)

Hi Wanda, I wanted to give you an update on Pinkie (we renamed her "Sophie") and to say thanks. We absolutely love Sophie and she was quickly accepted by our two other pets. In fact, she did so well with our dog and other cat that we didn't even close our bedroom door the first night. In the morning I found her sitting on my son's computer desk with our dog lying on the floor beneath her. While she's still a bit intimidated by our Lab, KC, who still acts like a puppy at age 7, she has more than once set him in his place with a well-timed hiss. My wife works from home and Sophie spends the day either sitting in her lap while she's working on the computer or napping on her desk. She's becoming quite inquisitive. We can't tell you how much we appreciate the time you spent helping us adopt Sophie. My wife will tell you that Sophie was maybe the best Mother's Day present she's ever received. Best, John and Sheri

MAXINE (Now MINA)

Wanda, I wanted to give you an update on Maxine (now called Mina). DAY ONE: She checked everything out and went RIGHT into her litter box as soon as I let her out of the kitty carrier. Then she went under the bed, but when I called her name (Mina) a few times she came right out and purred and rubbed against me! We went through the routine of going under the bed and coming out and purring and rubbing a few times. She ate a little and kept exploring. I think she is doing just fine and will be happy here. She is the cutest thing! I am already in love! I couldn't have found a better cat for me. I just adore her already! I cannot thank you guys enough for such a wonderful little cat. Now we know why little Maxine/Mina was in the shelter so long - she was waiting for me! DAY TWO: Mina slept with me all last night and even got under the covers with me. She keeps butting her head against my face, which I read somewhere means I am now part of her cat family. I couldn't be more pleased!! She is the sweetest thing, and cuter than any other cat I have ever seen. We're in love!.

FLUFFY

Fluffy's 'mom' wrote: I had lost my beautiful Persian kitty, Snowy, to old age and had started looking for another one. I knew I wanted to adopt Fluffy when I saw her picture on the site in Dec 2003, and then fell in love with her when I saw her in person even though she was so scared in the beginning. She is quiet and an elegant little lady. Her fur has grown thicker and longer and she likes to be brushed as long as we don't hit a knot. She likes to lay beside me and be petted, though doesn't really care to lay on my lap. She had a hard time adjusting at first, but as she began to trust me was just fine. We have five cats and she gets along just fine with the other cats. She is really a doll and makes me so happy.

EMILY

Emily's new "mommy" called Wanda and told her how THRILLED she is with Emily. She said Emily is just overjoyed in her new home, flopping over on her back for tummy rubs all the time. Yeah!!

LIBBY (now Kitnip)

Wanda, I do not know if you remember me, but I am Andrea's friend. I adopted (Libby) about 4 years ago, a black female persian who I named Princess Bali Hai, but she goes by the name of Kitnip now. Kitnip has become such the little companion, you would think she is attached to me at the hip. She even goes to the bathroom when I go. She likes to follow me throughout my apartment and is such a beauty. She climbs on me for her full body and spine rub down everyday and is quite the little aggressive kitty about getting her needs met for attention or food. She will never eat wet food if it has been sitting out for over two hours. She is super inquisitive...must smell everything that comes into the house and loves to connect with people. Right now I am working on completing some papers for graduate school and she is sitting here with me on the table, arms stretched out. When I talk with her in her cat voice, she lets me know she is listening by moving her tail up. I take her to the vet every three months to get her toenails clipped (they tend to curl into the nail bed if they are not kept cut). She is so girly, needs to be kept princess like. When I come home we touch noses as our way to greet. She jumps up on the table to greet me. One of the latest things is that I put on cocoa butter on my legs when I get out of the shower. Kitnip is waiting for me and is very attracted to the cocoa butter; she tries to lick it off my leg. I have to run from her. She is so playful and is quite active around my apartment. I love my cat so much, and cannot imagine life without her. Wanda, I hope you are well. Take care! Nancy

SNOWBALL

We first found Snowball in an alley downtown. He was in very bad shape; he could hardly open his eyes as there was infection. He was covered in knots and had very bad abscesses on the back of his rear legs. When we first saw him we didn't know if he was a cat or a dog. We called Animal Control who came and got him. The following weeks we tried to adopt him from the animal shelter, but he was too sick. They had shaved him, and didn't do a very good job as he was covered in cuts. Then Persian & Himalayan Cat Rescue took him to Home Pet Care in Davis. They gave him all the necessary medical attention, and we finally got to take him home. We are all so happy to have little Snowball as part of our family. He is a constant source of happiness for anyone who enters our house. As you can see he has come a long way since the animal shelter. William, Krystyna, and Snowball

BUBBA

You made our Christmas, and I have to say, I think not waiting until Christmas to surprise my wife worked out after all. We�re enjoying him so much as our new addition to the family that the holidays are going to be all the more special this year. At first he was a little shy, but slowly but surely, he�s getting more comfortable in his new home. He and his brother Tarin are getting along just fine as we had hoped, and we�re starting to notice of lot of the same characteristics in their personalities. He�s also having fun chasing and playing with out littlest one, Tricia, just as he was probably doing with Kimber�s little Zoe (what a cute cat!). Anyway, just a quick note to let you know that Bubba is doing great and to thank you guys again, and wish you a wonderful holiday season!!! Scott

GEOFFREY (renamed Punkin)

Hello Wanda, I wanted to tell you that the new addition to our family is doing great. We renamed him from Geoffrey to Punkin. It seemed to suit his cute little pumpkin head, and he actually responds when called. He is so adorable, and has such a great temperament. He is a pretty mellow dude. He likes to sit or sleep near us, and loves to be scratched. He doesn't mind being combed, but he gets a little fidgety when I do his hind quarters. Our other cat, Buddy Love, was not too happy about Punkin initially. There have been no spats, just an occasional hiss when Punkin gets too close for comfort. Buddy is tolerating him better every day, so everyone is getting along fine. We'll send in the microchip paperwork now that we know he's a keeper! Thanks so much for all the time you spent with us, helping us to pick the perfect pussycat! Stephanie and Dan

KIRA MARIE

Hello Ellen & Eva! I was just thinking about all the kitties that are without a home this Christmas and I thought you might want an update on Kira Marie. Since she came to live with me she has been so happy! She has gained a little weight, she was on the thin side when I first got her, and her coat has filled out beautifully! She is so playful and active and she is a real joy to have. I went to my mom�s for Thanksgiving and of course Kira came too. She really seemed to enjoy playing with my mom�s kitties. I am considering possibly adopting again after the first of the year. I think she would enjoy having a friend around the house. I will try to take some pictures and send them off to you. I just thought you might want to hear how wonderful she is doing. Thanks for everything, and Happy Holidays! Heather

JASMINE

Hi everyone, I just want to let you know that Jasmine has adjusted well to her new home. From the first evening, at some time in the middle of the night she made it to our bed and curled right up and has slept with us ever since (along with our other two cats Clive and James.) She was skittish at first, dashing from "her" room and our room and sometimes hiding under her bed but within two weeks was happy to stay out in the open, mostly in our room. She dashed back and forth over the boxes I was emptying with Christmas decorations this week and discovered that the afternoon sun is really warm in the front room. She always grabs my hand with her paw for more petting and makes little squeaks. The other day when I had my back to her while I lay on the bed, I got a gentle tap-tap-tap on my hip from Jasmine letting me know she wanted some attention. Thanks everyone for a wonderful, sweet kittie. Best Regards, Rhonda, John, James, Clive and now Jasmine.

SASQUATSH

Hi Ellen, I just wanted to drop you a line on Squashy. He is doing really well and he has gained a lot of weight and fur. That boy loves his kibbles! He doesn't seem to like any canned food, so he is just sticking with the dry. He is a total ham and carries his cat dancer toy all over the house. If I am not playing with him he seems to manage to get the toy dancing by himself. His other favorite toy is Gonzo, my 25 pound Maine Coon, that he repeatedly tackles like tipping a cow. Julie

SAWYER

Hi Ellen, since Sawyer arrived everyone is getting along great. Sawyer plays with toys and balls and isn't afraid of the dogs at all, so he doesn't run. So it looks like he is going to fit in just fine. He is eating and using the litter box and has already explored every inch of the house ;-) He's already taking up half the bed, has the full run of the house with the dogs and Hillary is respecting his personal space! Thanks again, Pat

DUSTY

Hi Ellen, just wanted to let you know that we love Dusty! He is so sweet and easy-going and fits well into our family. In the mornings he loves to play for a few minutes before I go to work. The kitty-kisses he gives us on our noses make us feel very special!  Thank you again for all your help. Patti, Jake, and Thomas

ALEX (renamed Ewok)

Hi Wanda, Just a quick note to let you know that Alex is doing well. We call him Ewok now. I have to thank you for your recommendation. He is the most loveable cat I have ever had. He has gained almost two pounds and is getting lots of love and care. He has recently had his teeth cleaned. They are quite white now. Every night Ewok sleeps with us and has the run of the house. Deli turkey is one of his favorites. I really enjoy spoiling him. I am so grateful for the opportunity to give Ewok a good home. Right now he is lying on the desk next to the computer as I write this. I would love to adopt another cat from your home. I need to convince my husband that Ewok needs a pal while we are at work. I have plenty of love for two cats. My husband is quite taken with Ewok as well. Ewok especially enjoys my youngest daughter when she comes home from college. Thanks again, Barbara

PRISSY & LEO

Do you remember Prissy (Sassy) and Leo (Max)? I adopted them from you about a year ago September. Leo, he's about 9 or 10 now and acts like he's a 2 year old kitty, has turned into a real lover boy. In fact, he's sitting on my lap this minute! He likes to cuddle and be around me all the time. He sleeps near me. (Prissy sleeps on the foot of my bed or in her little basket.) He has no health trouble at all since coming to live with me. He is very energetic - racing around, leaping up and down and across furniture, the little condo, and the hallway. He also opens cupboard doors! He also opens closed doors that aren't quite latched. Fortunatly he can't get to anything that will hurt him. He has a toy bird on a string that I drape over his condo. He bats and bites it until he gets it down then carries into the bedroom, meowing, like he's bringing it to me. I praise him profusely that he is such a brave hunter and beautiful boy! He is just great and I love him dearly. Prissy has a grey leather mouse that she carries to me and meows in her peculiar, constricted sounding kitty voice. She's beautiful and quiet and I think just wants to be left alone. She doesn't like to be held but does let me cuddle her for about a minute before she starts growling. She has a forever home with me and she can have anything she wants. My heart breaks for her and all the misery she has suffered. I love her very much and am glad she came to live with me. Anyhow, I thought you might like a letter letting you know how my new family is doing. We (I) think of you and bless you for the wonderful care you give the lucky kitties you find. Take care, Wanda. God bless you richly. Marie.

PRECIOUS

Hi Kimber, just a quick note to let you know that Precious is doing great! She is very comfortable around Murphy. The first night she was on my couch right next to my dog. She just loves for me to pet her. During the day she sleeps and at night she comes out and checks the place out. She sleeps next to me and the dog for a couple of hours and then roams around......boy can she eat. Lost her appetite for about one day but quickly found it. I just love her. Thanks again for everything. I will keep you updated. Colleen

DHARMA

Just wanted to give you a quick update on Dharma. She seems to be doing really well. After a couple of nights in her room (the bathroom) with many visits from me, she was asking (meowing) to come out. She explored the apartment with some hesitation but with a daring curiosity. After a couple of hours she seemed comfortable. She is still getting used to apartment living, and is still wondering about the sounds and muffled voices she hears through the wall on occasion. She has climbed up in bed to sleep with me the past two nights and likes to crash her body into my neck or face to get comfortably positioned. In the mornings she is my little alarm clock. She dashes off the bed, down the hall to the front door and back up the hall and up on the bed. I think she likes to hear the sound of herself galloping on the hardwood floors. Once she gets me up she knows it's playtime. After morning playtime, she makes sure I follow her to her room to keep her company while she eats. If I sneak away to log onto the computer, she stops eating, comes out to the hall and calls for me to come back and sit with her while she eats. If I sneak away again, she looks for me and when she finds me, she leads me back to her room, lecturing me all the way. Just a couple of days, and she's already got me wrapped around her paw...

MARTINI (renamed Natasha)

Hi Ellen, I picked Martini up on Fri., took her home and we are loving her to pieces !!!!! She was shy at first but the first night she was on my pillow and is just so cute, her tongue hangs out...funny. We renamed her Natasha...fits her. She is adopted to a happy couple. Phil & Diane

JASPER (renamed Che)

Hello Wanda! We just wanted to give you an update on Che (formerly Jasper). He is doing very well and has settled in nicely with the family. Ringworm has cleared up completely and he seems much happier, even tolerating claw clipping & grooming. He sleeps at the foot of the bed, uses his litter box and scratching post like a pro, and is quite the chatty boy. Thank you for your terrific work and the great new member of our family. Love, Lisa, Ed and Sophia

ANDRE

Oh is he cute!! He is doing very well! What is his deal with the bath tub?? He has his own water bowl, but jumps into the tub for a drink, even though the water doesn't drip. So cute. I trimmed his nails today and he tolerated it very well. Then he met my kids, and again, did just great. I think he has found kitty nirvana! He has more toys than I did as a kid. Thanks!! Anissa P.S. My mom asked me to give you a little update.

KLONDIKE

He is absolutely the coolest little cat. He didn't care for being in the box at all, but once he was able to take a look at what was going on around him, he settled back for the ride and even started purring. When we got home, we put him in the bedroom and he made himself right at home. He wasn't the slightest bit stressed - instead he was interested and curious. Today we introduced the dog and kitty and couldn't believe how amazing they were. The dog is delighted to have a friend and gave Klondike lots of licks. Klondike has no fear whatsoever! He loves the dog! He keeps coming up to the dog and rubbing up against his face and leaning in for more sloppy kisses. We have to send you some pictures, it's too cute! Now that they've settled down, they're both hanging out on the bed. Klondike has curled up right beside the dog and is rolling over, exposing his tummy and inviting the dog to play. He keeps swatting & munching on the dog's wagging tail and Fidel, the tolerant giant that he is, responds by licking him some more. Fidel is also quite optimistic about future play possibilities. We taught the dog to kick his tennis ball to us and he passed the ball over to Klondike who chased after it while Fi looked on, tail aswaying. Klondike's eating well and seems to think that we're all just big, funny looking cats, part of his new pack. He woke Peter this morning by tiptoeing on his chest and licking his forehead. We really liked him when we met him at your house, but really had no idea how super sweet, inquisitive, and fun he would be! He's just amazing! We're having a great time! Thanks so much! Klondike sends a hug! Heather & Peter

VEGAS BLUE

Ellen, I just wanted to give you a brief follow up. Vegas made the trip to Clayton like a little trooper. When we got home it was clear that my other 8 year old male cat was going to be a bit of a pill. Throughout the weekend I attempted slow, steady introductions and by this morning Jupiter was no longer hissing or yeowling. Vegas was able to sniff him and walk around him without mishap. I separated them when I left for work, but am now free of concern and know they'll end up being best buddies. I just called [the vet] and we'll be going for his check up on the 18th. Thank you for your good work. If I know of any other good cat parents looking for an adoptee, I'll have them look you up. Julie

TAXI

Taxi is doing very well. She loves to play with string & will run around the house for hours. I think she may be eating a little too much becasue her tummy is getting fat. She will be going to the vet on Friday for a well exam. She likes to sit up high and has adopted my sewing machine chair as her own. Rhiannon just loves her and has proclaimed she is her mommy. Thanks so much, Karen

SOFIA

I adopted my Himalayan, Sofia, from my local animal shelter. She was neglected by her previous owners, who surrendered her to the animal shelter because "the wife had allergies." Sofia was a sorry sight. She cowered in her corner and looked extremely depressed.    She was a gigantic ball of extremely matted fur.   For some reason, when I got near her cage, she only came to me. She got up and walked over to me and gave me her (declawed) paw. I took her home and she immediately hid under the sofa and urinated on herself. She refused to eat. I put her in a room by herself with a bowl of food, litter pan and water. She hesitated in front of the food bowl as she tried to chew the kibble. I could tell something was very wrong. At the vet's, she was treated for an upper respiratory infection.   She only weighed 6 pounds and I could feel the skin and bones under all the matted hair.  She had to have dental cleaning, extractions, and a "Lion Cut" for her matted fur.   Today, Sofia is the princess of the house. It took less than a week for my two cats to accept her! She is a beautiful healthy cat who is full of energy. She is also a lap cat and meows up a storm for attention! Yesterday she slept on my lap while I studied and right now as I write this, she is twisted into an odd position and making little odd snoring noises as she sleeps. Sofia has brought so much light into my life. I love her dearly and refer to her as my daughter. Sofia seems to "thank" me every day. So thank you for everything and keep up the wonderful work. Sincerely, Caroline    >^..^<

TEDDY

Wanda and Bobbie, I want to take a moment to thank you again for Teddy. Actually, we renamed him "Marlowe" shortly after he came to us. Marlowe is doing wonderfully...his personality is starting to come out now. He's vocal and very affectionate. Our other cat Callie loves him because he is so sweet and gentle. They usually sleep near each other. We bought him a cat tree for Christmas. He especially likes the enclosed house where he can see everything that's going on in the family and dining room. His favorite spot is the sofa between Phil and I. His respiratory problems are gone and he's thriving on a raw chicken diet (it's disgusting to make but it really seems to keep the cats healthy).

CHLOE

We would like to give you a long overdue update on our dear Chloe. She quickly became a member of our family. My husband and I never grew up with cats so we never knew the joy they could bring until Chloe came into our lives. Now we can't remember what our home was like before her. It's so nice to see her curled up at our feet in our bed in the middle of the night and hear her soft purr. We still get a chuckle when we see her splashing in her water.

CHARLIE

Wanda, hi. Charlie and I got back home a week ago after about a 5 1/2 hour trip where he mostly slept but sometimes talked to me. He seemed to adapt easily to our house, using the litter box and drinking and trying to dominate our other cats. But he wouldn't eat. Finally after two days he took some dry food in his mouth and spilled it to the floor. He then picked it up and chewed one piece of it slowly, shaking his head when he was done. He ate two or three more, and then stopped. Over the next three or four days he was eating very little, until we got so concerned we bought some high quality canned food yesterday. Needless to say, that's what he wanted. He's packed back some calories and is feeling much more content (he's stretched out asleep in front of the fire now). We'll take him to our vet next week to get a reading on his teeth. If they're not up to dry food, well, he'll get canned food (and our other cats will get it too, and they just love it of course). If the teeth check out OK, we'll try to introduce dry food back into his life. I wanted you to know that he's fine. Our other Persian is still terrified of him, but it's getting better little by little and we think in a few weeks they'll be playing or at least they will have stopped hissing and batting. Mikey (our other Persian) hid for two days, but he's out now and it will eventually work out. Charlie is very, very people oriented and very unafraid of new surroundings. He has made himself at home, and we tell him constantly that he can stay here with us forever. We haven't managed any photos yet, but they will come, I promise. I'm so glad we connected successfully. We'll be in touch. Thank you for letting us have Charlie. Ann

PUGS

Hello Wanda, I have to tell you I am so madly in love with our little boy Pugs. I never thought that it was possible to become so attached to a "pre-owned cat". We spend so much time every day playing games, such as chasing balls (is he part dog?), strings, to me chasing him around the apartment aka catch me if you can. I"m still learning what his likes and dislikes are which can be at times entertaining. His reprimands are a swat or a good tap on my leg. Luckily I just get gummed and scratched (one or two). He loves to snuggle during naps or bed time, next to my face, him stretched out and the most endearing act is his need to touch me. I will wake up with a soft gentle paw on my face or his paw wrapped around my fingers. Does it get any sweeter? I hope you and the shelter are doing well and thank you so much for all your help, love and making certain good cats get good homes. Love, Pugs and Glenda

  GILMORE

Just thought I'd drop you a note to let you know how Gilmore is doing. He is very happy to have a home. Not so happy to have a big brother. Also not so happy to be behind a baby gate in the small bedroom. He loves his turn out in the big room. He lounges for hours in the sun in the bay window. He also lounges on top of a big round cat house perch next to another favorite open window. He likes the front room best because he can see the activity on the street. People walking their dogs. Neighborhood cats prowling by. People gardening. He loves to cuddle with this nice woman who has made all this possible. He does not love that big gray snorting furry fluff ball who walks right up to him to say hello. He growls and hisses to let that furry guy know to keep his distance. The furry guy is clueless and keeps on coming toward him until the nice woman stops him. He is defensive, never offensive. Fortunately, he does not spray to mark his territory. Yesterday, he was okay just hanging out at his favorite window with his big brother hanging out on the chair next to him, 18 inches away, under the watchful eye of this nice woman. Every now and then the furry guy got up to go over and say hello, but the nice woman kept him away. He loves the big room so much he is afraid to go back to his food dish to eat because he knows the baby gate will move back to his room. He avoids this until he is absolutely so hungry he does not care. When he hears that can open, he slowly, carefully moves into his little room and starts to eat as the baby gate is moved back to his doorway. Not one mouse has been seen since Gilmore came to stay with us. Good job! Wanda, thank you so much for the work you do, and making it possible for me to enjoy the company of two such wonderful kitties. Mary

PEARL - (renamed Shorty)

Hello to Wanda and all the gang at the Rescue,We thought you would like to see some recent pictures of "Shorty" aka....Pearl who we lovingly adopted from you in about March of 2003. It was at the Cat Show in San Mateo. As you can see, she is very curious and smart as can be. We even caught her coming out of the dryer the other day (don't worry, it wasn't on or hot!). It's too bad we weren't quick enough with the camera to get the one, but I am sure we will get another chance, someday! She also likes to enter one of our lower kitchen cabinets as soon as you take a pan out to start dinner. With Shorty around, it is a laugh a minute but you have to stay on your toes too, HA! She has also had a wonderful time with the Christmas tree this year. I came home to various strung beads and ornaments on the floor the other day. Actually, I would bet that both of our cats had joined in those festivities. They also like to run around the tree and hide in the packages. Well all, we thought you would especially enjoy the picture of Shorty looking at your website and her picture on the moniter. Maybe she was remembering back to the day when you wonderful folks brought her in for a good meal and cleaning up. She is the light of our lives! Thank you all and Happiest of Holidays, Rhonda and Bob (P.S. give Elvis a Christmas hug for us too! )

QUINCY

Hi Bobbie & Wanda, Hope all's well with you and the kitties! Quincy and I think of you often and wanted to wish you the best this holiday season. Quincy and Benny (my other cat) get along famously and pal around together all the time now. Quite a charming pair! Quincy is doing great and is such a sweet, sociable guy! Everybody loves him, especially me. I can't imagine my life without him! Have a great year and hope to see you both soon. Take care, Susan

  OLIVER

Hi Wanda, Oliver has his favorite places in the apt. and he cuddles with me each morning and sleeps in late with me on weekends. He eats Newman's Own organic food and has a ton of toys that he plays with. On occasion he pulls his toys out of the toy basket by himself. He is so smart! He is quite active and chases his balls and stuffed toys around the entire apt. He loves to play with yarn and his favorite is paper and tissue paper for gift wrapping! He is very happy and always greets me when I come home from work. He sits up on the toilet when I take baths and talks to me. We are great friends and I am so grateful he came to live with me. Also, feel free to put any of this info into the "Happy Tails" page.  He would love to read about his spoiled little self. He is a little prince! Warmly, Joey

TIKA & CHINOIS

We adopted Chinois & Tika in June, 2003 in Davis and they both asked us to send you the enclosed contribution this year so you can continue to help other Persian cats find great homes. Tika and Chinois are absolute joys and our life has become normal again with cats in the house (we had as many as six over the years, but lost our last one - a wonderful Blue Point Himalayan named Sara - just a week before we adopted Tika and Chinois). We realized within two days after losing Sara that the house was just "not right" and we headed off to Vacaville, then Mill Valley and then to Davis to find just the right Himmies. Carolyn introduced us to Tika and Chinois and we knew right away. They are just great cats. Big, loving, feisty, funny and quite at home. We can't imagine how they came through all their trevails so well, but we do know that they're not going anywhere again and we think they know that, too. Thanks so much for all that you do and for rescuing our wonderful girls so they could brighten our lives. Sincerely, Kim & Bill

CELINI

Hi Wanda. I adopted a silver shaded persian over a year ago. His name was Celini at that time, but has since changed to JohnnyCat. We just love him and we are so thankful to have him in our lives. I just wanted to thank you again--especially on this Thanksgiving Day--for all the work you do to help cats and people. Keep up the wonderful job you all do. Sincerely, Arlene

MANNY (renamed Chalkey)

Hi! It's Stacey down her in Glendale. I just wanted to drop in and say hello to the 1st anniversary (well last month) of Manny (now Chalkey) coming into my life - and give you a little update. I can't properly put into words how wonderful this little boy is. He has more personality than any cat I've every known and is sooo loving! He finds a new favorite spot every week or so, and most recently has found that spot to be on my shoulder when I'm sleeping with his head sometimes nestled into my neck gently purring. His deafness is an absolute non-issue and for the most part we forget entirely that he is deaf. I just talk away to him like any other animal! He loves to be petted and loves particularly to have his face scratched, and will at times actually push his face into my hand so that his head is completely enveloped (remember how he was very afraid of hands coming towards his face in the beginning?) He is incredibly vocal, too. He always likes to let us know where he is at various points throughout his travels in the day (particularly in the wee hours of the morning) but we just love him soooo much. I feel tremendously blessed to have him in my life now and couldn't imagine a day without him. He is so special and I am so lucky. Thank you, Wanda (and the other women with the shelter as well) for doing such a great thing. Without you I wouldn't have this beautiful little life as part of mine. We were meant for each other! Sincerely, Stacey

OLIVER

Hi Wanda and everyone there. We just love Ollee. He's doing so well He has found his way around our house (now his) and is very happy. He has made himself at home, likes his food and most importantly knows where the cat box is. We've been playing with cat toys with him; he really likes the ones with catnip in them. We just love him so much already. I woke up last night and he was sleeping at the foot of our bed. I think he feels at home with us. We can hardly wait to pick up "Bell" who we will name "Sadee". I just know they will get along with each other. Wanda, you're doing such a wonderful job with all the animals and many thanks to all the people who help you. Peter & Carole

MERCY

Wanda, Just a quick note to let you know that Mercy is doing great. She's adjusting well to her new home. She's using the cat box, eating well, sleeping on my bed at night, and purring all the time. I set up two cat boxes. One filled with Johnny Cat and the other with The Worlds best cat litter and it looks like she prefers Johnny Cat, so I'm wondering if you would like a couple of bags of The Worlds best cat litter. I would be happy to donate it. Hope all is well and I hope you are finding homes for lots of cats. Thanks, Cheryl

BETH (renamed Lisa)

Hi Wanda. How are you? My family adopted a fat and cute kitty named Beth from your organization. As soon as we got her, we renamed her Lisa. Overall, we loooooooove her very much, I told her she is part of our family and we will take care of her. She gets along wonderfully with the dogs and she is very affectionate to my husband and I. She truly believes she is a dog; she sleeps with them and spends most of her day with my huge dogs. As I told you before, I doubt we could have chosen a better cat. Pretty soon, we are going to have our Christmas family portrait taken, and of course Lisa will be included as she is part of our family. I will send you a copy of the picture as soon as I have them. Thanks again for giving us the opportunity to have such a wonderful companion in our life. I reassure you that she is very well taken care of and that she receives lots of love from all of us in our family. Best, Alex

TROOPER

Hello Wanda & everyone! We made it to France just fine. Trooper was a real "trooper" in the Air France plane and the French customs did not even ask for his immigration papers (after all that work!) Trooper is adjusting just fine to the life in France! We are here for the year living in Nantes, France on the Brittany coast (Trooper, myself, and my husband). Trooper has a big apartment with tons of sunlight; he plays and snoozes and eats--basically, he is really happy! Thank you again for letting us adopt Trooper aka Combat, such a loving, Himalayan cat. With best regards, Martha and Francois

BARBIE

Hi Wanda. Nancy and I love Barbie. We call her Mr. Pevely, Barbie Pevely or whatever strikes our fancy. She is healthy. Barbie loves her catnip sock (she sleeps on it) and rolls around in her catnip pizza. She follows us around all the time and is starting to like our laps. She loves to be brushed-- unlike most cats. So, that is the news. How are you doing? Hope all is well. We are. Thanks and Barbie says hi to her old buddies at your house. Don and Nancy

GABLE

I adopted Gable a couple of months ago. I had fallen in love with his cute little face on your web site early in the year, but restrained myself. Then he came up for adoption again, and I had to have him! I am so glad he lives here now. He brings new meaning to the phrase "bright eyed and bushy tailed." He is a great playmate for my other little cat, and very gentle and non-aggressive. He is a lap sitter, and doesn't mind being combed at all, even on his hind legs. He just lies there, totally relaxed, and seems to enjoy it. He never gets matted as he lets me do a thorough job each time. He is a total joy. Thank you, Wanda. Cynthia

Caution!