tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67680395490430818012024-03-19T01:52:09.826-07:00Blistered Whiskers Blog"I may not be able to save them all, but I will save all that I can, one by one."Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-710678926312843742011-09-07T08:02:00.000-07:002011-09-07T08:02:12.981-07:00SOME THOUGHTS HEADING INTO AUTUMN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifXf6Q3sXzEtLQWw3bwBOpennsLD4o2q0oBC332o8L567S7s_D7nYPtU-cwmq5NCEGlFm-tWCOqXRL1oSJ1GxnuUqG49KXKK94g6_GKhps5-KhbFs5pAQ5N7SHBLylfJD-s35LyxaYxv0/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifXf6Q3sXzEtLQWw3bwBOpennsLD4o2q0oBC332o8L567S7s_D7nYPtU-cwmq5NCEGlFm-tWCOqXRL1oSJ1GxnuUqG49KXKK94g6_GKhps5-KhbFs5pAQ5N7SHBLylfJD-s35LyxaYxv0/s320/012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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KITTEN SEASON - WHAT YOU CAN DO FROM HERE<br />
Whew...! Kitten season is almost over. But that doesn't mean there isn't plenty to do at Blistered Whiskers. With school starting back up and the seasons changing - along with outside responsibilities that go with it - we've lost many of our volunteers. Congrats to those who've helped so much during the summer, and Bravo for all the good you've done. With those outside changes taking many away from us, there's only seven steady volunteers left. That's quite a load on the shoulders of very few. We'd certainly love to have new volunteers. If you'd like to volunteer, or know of anyone who'd like a chance to make a difference, please contact us. It's such a wonderful opportunity for the kitties to get to know you, and for to see them go from tiny little babies to youngsters then get adopted out is one of the most amazing experiences. Trust me, it touches your soul. <br />
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PATIENCE, YOUNG SKYWALKER - FOR NEW ADOPTIONS<br />
When a kitty is relocated, sometimes it takes a while for him/her to get comfortable in their surroundings. My previous post was about sensitive kitties at Petsmart, and how they can really struggle with the strange environment. Hopefully the transition from the shelter to your home will be smooth, but if it takes a little while, please be patient. Some people will adopt a kitty, take it home, and if it doesn't immediately respond they'll bring the kitty back. Of course we're willing to take the kitty back, but the purpose was to get the kitty a home. If you've ever relocated to a new city, for example, you have an idea of how hard it can be. You don't know the lay of the land, where the essential places are (like the grocery store), and most times you barely know a handful of people in your new town. It can quite a daunting transition. But, with time, you managed to find your way. Same concept goes for your new adopted kitty. There are strange smells, sights, sounds, people, and possibly other pets. The kitties senses might be on overload because all of this is so strange to him/her. In time the kitty will adapt, but some take longer than others. My cat, Zara, was an only cat for the first 6 of her 8 years. I've been her entire world, and we didn't get many people visitors, either. So in her world it was just her and me. Now that I'm engaged and living with my fiance' (along with her cat, Leo, and her son) it's been quite a change for Zara. She went from an only with me as her entire world, to a new place, shared by people she didn't know... AND... another cat. Trust me, it took a few months for her to get comfortable with all of this. She's grown into her environment and now runs the household - again. This can happen for your new kitty as well. Patience is a virtue, and an important key for a successful adoption.<br />
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Much love to you and we'll see you soon...<br />
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Paul ZimmermanBlistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-27792635505386197892011-06-25T09:41:00.000-07:002011-06-25T09:41:59.984-07:00Sensitive Kitties Need Love Too<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg6TeAVxs0SnNC5NMmQITcNCMmwayDHUt6i3DfdPMD0qkdudEsopxtB3Jm21bf68nTsHRsolz-sGrjxUo4egYUF5SMfBfO-GvzOwEj6SijpmIfFiFLsTBXjZpI5o62yJJginqLOIxtbw0/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg6TeAVxs0SnNC5NMmQITcNCMmwayDHUt6i3DfdPMD0qkdudEsopxtB3Jm21bf68nTsHRsolz-sGrjxUo4egYUF5SMfBfO-GvzOwEj6SijpmIfFiFLsTBXjZpI5o62yJJginqLOIxtbw0/s320/014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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As many of you know, we do most of our adoptions out of Petsmart. We take both adults and kittens and many of them have no problem there. They are comfortable in their surroundings, and because of this, they get adopted out.<br />
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But there are sensitive cats and kittens, just as there are sensitive people. These guys and girls do great in familiar surroundings, the surroundings they grew up in such as Blistered Whiskers, but when we get them to Petsmart, they become frightened or anxious. There's a lot of commotion almost constantly. Even when Petsmart is closed, people are running around doing their stocking of shelves, which causes clatter. There are forklifts, which cause unusual beeps and other sounds. And there are children who come in and see the kitties and tap - or sometimes pound - on the windows. All of these things can be quite overwhelming for a kitty that is sensitive. Ever have a dog that gets really scared around firecrackers or thunder? Same concept. There's absolutely nothing wrong with the animal except that its sensitive to its environment. For most, its just too busy. I think most of us can identify with that at some time or another. Ever been to Toys - R - Us around Christmas time? eeek!!! <br />
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There a re plenty of kitties who love a chance to see you at Blistered Whiskers. You can certainly go by there and interact with all of them. In fact, i think i can be a better way of interacting with a kitty because you are seeing them when they are comfortable, in an environment that they are used to, and that way you can get a pretty good idea of how the kitty is going to be once he/she gets used to its new environment with you. You can always call and make an appointment, or you can just stop by between 9am and 7pm. Give it a try. You just might go home with a new friend.Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-40813040734204315792011-03-28T20:46:00.000-07:002011-04-25T07:45:00.840-07:00Older, wiser, and better?As you know kitten season is well underway. Things are definitely busy here at Blistered Whiskers, but we're doing our very best for all of the new additions.<br />
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But I've had something in the back of my mind for a little while. How to write a blog for the older cats still there. Ya see... we've all been thru some tough times, and come out of it better people. There are times when we thought the world didn't give us a care, that our better days are behind us... only to come to the conclusion that are better days are, indeed, ahead of us.<br />
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So i think of the older cats at Blistered Whiskers. All of them have their better days ahead of them, and all would love to have a forever home. Could this be your home?<br />
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Well, let's look at some good reasons for adopting a cat instead of a kitten. 1) adoption fees are less for a cat versus a kitten. 2) a cat's personality is established. if you're looking for a cat to be at your side and talk to you, we have plenty of those. If you're looking for a more mellow cat, a gentle cat, that is independent and loves you from afar, we have those too. We have just about every type of personality you can think of. You can come to the adult pen, get to know each and every cat there, and find a cat that best suits what you are looking for in a pet. 3) taking care of an animal gives people a sense of purpose. It can certainly lower blood pressure, lower stress levels, and put a smile on your face knowing that your cat is waiting for you when you get home, waiting to love you. No matter how bad my day is, my cat is always waiting for me, and her entire world is complete and happy just because i am around. That's a pretty good feeling. 4) perhaps you're looking for a companion for another cat. Usually another cat who is already familiar and comfortable with other cats is a great addition to your family. Kittens are spastic and frenetic and can sometimes stress out another cat. Adopting a full grown cat to pair with an existing cat in your home most times is a wiser choice.<br />
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And, most importantly, although the cats may no longer be kittens, their best days are still ahead of them. Remember what i said about feeling like the world doesn't care? Well, you can care and you can make a difference to a cat that is already happy, healthy, and just waiting for their chance to find a good loving home.<br />
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Could this be your home?<br />
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All my best to you and your new furry friend,<br />
Paul ZimmermanBlistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-60350073640664314082011-03-23T23:55:00.000-07:002011-03-23T23:59:31.107-07:00Goodbye to Knut the Polar Bear from Berlin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcah4iFELtwhiyeC2pqHnLkiklfji1ybjsxB6S9YTfcyb5cgjzmp2m4zCSfxFKorFSMJssq6pBhgY3lCf-09tafHu5xeiSwGKUXIIL3sANlZS_bOhqtC5UNHN3bA3A1ReKv8HK4K4OYM/s1600/IMG_1404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcah4iFELtwhiyeC2pqHnLkiklfji1ybjsxB6S9YTfcyb5cgjzmp2m4zCSfxFKorFSMJssq6pBhgY3lCf-09tafHu5xeiSwGKUXIIL3sANlZS_bOhqtC5UNHN3bA3A1ReKv8HK4K4OYM/s320/IMG_1404.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Sometime in 2007, I came across an article in the Internet about Knut and I fell in love with the little bear and his story immediately.<br />
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Knut and a brother were born in 2006 to a former circus performer from East Germany but for an unknown reason, she rejected both her cubs and abandoned them somewhere in the enclosure. The cubs were very lucky because their mother left them in a place where the Zookeepers were able to get to them and remove them still alive.<br />
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The first cub died after a few days but the second cub, later named Knut, lived to make history, he was the first polar bear cub to be born and survive in the Berlin Zoo for some 30 years.<br />
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Getting Knut to survive was no easy task, he spent a lot of time first in an incubator and then being actually cared for around the clock, in fact, one of the Zoo kepers was almost as famous as Knut for his total and complete dedication to the little cub, his name was Thomas Dörflein. During Knut's first years he fed him, bathe him, played with him, even slept next to his crate at night.<br />
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There was a big controversy about this, several animal rights groups said it wasn't natural for a Polar Bear to be raised by a person and that it would only hurt him in the end.<br />
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But it was too late already for any other decision to be made, Knut had survived being rejected by his mom, he was growing up and he was already a big P.R. hit for the Zoo and he was already loved and adored by millions of people, so he kept growing under the care of Thomas. Both of them were part of the daily shows at the Zoo, they played together, hugged and were the fascination of the adoring and growing public... Zoo attendance increased significantly, everybody wanted to meet the cute little cub. I saw several videos of these shows and they were just adorable, no other way to describe it.<br />
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Before he was 1 year old, he was already too big, not for a polar bear, but too big for humans, so he had to say goodbye to his 'dad', Thomas, and the Zoo started trying to get him to meet other bears. I remember reading that this was very difficult for him, that he kept waiting for Thomas to show up at a certain time or place in the enclosure, that he would exhibit anxious behavior and definitely not very successful at making friends with the other bears, there were reports even that he was bullied by the other bears and this was blamed in the fact that he was raised by people, so he didn't know about relating with others of his kind.<br />
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His early childhood seemed so happy, it was sad to hear about his problems adjusting to 'bear' life as he grew up, but I never thought it could be too bad, even without Thomas and sharing his place with other bears, I was convinced he was happy enough and I wanted so much to see him someday.<br />
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And that someday arrived! We were lucky enough to make a trip to Germany in 2009 and when we were making plans the items in the itinerary that were a few 'must-do' in our list while in Berlin: visit what was left of the Berlin Wall, the Reichstag and Knut, everything else was negotiable, that's how much I wanted to see him.<br />
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It's hard to describe the day we went to the Berlin Zoo. I was the most stereotypical tourist ever! I was so excited about finally meeting Knut in person that I wanted to buy every souvenir available, I kept hurrying everybody up because of course Knut's enclosure was at the other end of the Zoo. It was great to finally see him, but at the same time I couldn't ignore the pacing. He was just pacing from one side to the other, back and forth, back and forth, everybody in our little group commented about that, didn't look quite right... but well, maybe it was close to his meal time and he was anxious or something like that. I came up with several theories to make me feel better, but regardless, it was still a bit sad seeing him pace like that, I hoped that he wasn't spending most of his time like that.<br />
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A couple of days ago, Knut died, at an extremely young age. He was just 4 years old when Polar Bears in captivity live in average of 30 years. They still don't know the official cause of death, but there were some preliminary reports about some anomalies in his brain that could have contributed to his death.<br />
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I still have a conflict about Zoos and the good/bad impact they have on animals and Knut is a big part of this internal discussion going on in my head, but regardless of my evolving thoughts on the matter, on the ethics around keeping animals in captivity and regardless also on how Knut's unusual upbringing may have affected him during his short live, I want to think that he was happy most of his life and that he made a difference bringing the plight of the polar bears and other endangered species to the forefront. Like me, I'm sure a lot of people around the world are sad about his passing but will remember him fondly.<br />
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<a href="http://www.google.com/search?q=knut+pictures&hl=en&prmd=ivnsu&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=5OeKTdy0CJH0swPywpGkCg&ved=0CC4QsAQ&biw=1374&bih=991">Tschüß liebe Knut, </a><br />
LupemariaBlistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-49400310933002983402011-03-19T20:27:00.000-07:002011-03-19T20:27:10.970-07:00I heart 'Animal People'<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://d1ihe8iurr5ss7.cloudfront.net/animals/fullsize/s1373a2351051m7075326.jpg" width="320" /></div>I used to believe that when a good cause came along, all the people that supported such cause would work together without any major conflicts, they would just work together and advance this good cause, make a difference.<br />
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Unfortunately, this isn't always the case.<br />
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There are many animal-related causes out there, every one just as just as good as the next, but surprisingly, working together just doesn't come that easy, unfortunately, power, politics, money and personal interests or feelings can get in the way of doing our absolute best for the animals.<br />
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The first time I realized that we, animal lovers, didn't have a single voice was when I read an article about a group in California that was lobbying to cut the City funding for a successful TNR program in the Community and instead using that money for trapping and killing community/feral cats and to my surprise, the group lobbying for this change was a group under the animal protection umbrella... This group had a very worthy cause in their hands, protecting birds.<br />
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This is when I realized that we aren't all 'animal people' or 'animal lovers'... There are some people out there that will discriminate when it comes to what animals they love and what animals, in their opinion, deserve to live and which ones deserve to be killed.<br />
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True animal lovers will not discriminate in such a way, animal lovers will care and be compassionate and kind to all animals, regardless of species or breeds.<br />
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I'm not saying in any way that birds are not worthy of our care, compassion and protection, but surely a plan can be devised by animal lovers in which certain balance and compromise can be achieved. Imagine how much more could be done for animals if animal groups don't waste a single dollar or minute fighting each other and they just sit down and work together! <br />
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I often hear or read about how bad feral cats are and how many birds they kill... but in reality, <a href="http://www.alleycat.org/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=642">cats would never kill a fraction of the birds that we, humans, are killing</a>. The number of birds killed by habitat lost, hunting and as we recently learned, actual <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/yblog_thelookout/20110121/ts_yblog_thelookout/usda-admits-role-in-large-bird-kill">sanctioned killing of birds by our Government agencies</a> is appaling! And make no mistake, this is 'killing' not euthanasia like they are trying to label it. Even if the cats of the world were to organize themselves to eat only birds, <a href="http://modernsurvivalblog.com/current-events-economics-politics/u-s-government-bird-kill/">they would never be able to kill a fraction of the birds that we humans kill</a>, and we don't even kill them in order to survive.<br />
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So, instead of killing cats, we should re-double our efforts to keep cats with their families so they don't end up abandoned and homeless, we should re-double efforts around TNR programs in the communities to reduce the number of feral cats that are being forced to fend for themselves, and above all, we should re-double efforts to educate ourselves and make sure we are making a difference in the life of animals by being 'animal people'.<br />
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I myself have 7 cats, I love cats, but that doesn't mean I want or support the suffering or killing of other animals, that doesn't mean I will spend any time, effort or money advocating anything like that or supporting organizations that are not true 'animal lovers'. To the contrary, I am very happy and grateful to know that there are a lot of 'animal people' out there, making a difference with dogs, cats, birds, wild animals, farm animals, critters, you name it! In our modern world, all animals are in dire need of our kindness and support.<br />
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And one of these groups making a difference every day is <a href="http://www.facebook.com/BlisteredWhiskers">Blistered Whiskers.</a> BW is a small group, but they are a small group of 'animal lovers' that are comitted to saving as many kitties as possible with TNR, rescue and adoption. I am a proud supporter of <a href="http://www.causes.com/causes/515103-save-the-kittens-help-blistered-whiskers?m=4d513973">Blistered whiskers.</a><br />
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LupemariaBlistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-24905126701698039642011-02-24T13:28:00.000-08:002011-02-24T13:28:32.296-08:00here a kitten, there a kitten, everywhere a kitten kitten<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMQCONuERl4J09JdCPlReu94I8hPIgyxwxAWQi1lR_xRgJzrNmcINg8kZP7aQNPDUANVt3X-LCRvedGOd1DDGp13FHE7exJHbCINMTW6BzPT1EERI8WsmtXs1KUOWCGl5i5cMaTss-4X4/s1600/bw5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMQCONuERl4J09JdCPlReu94I8hPIgyxwxAWQi1lR_xRgJzrNmcINg8kZP7aQNPDUANVt3X-LCRvedGOd1DDGp13FHE7exJHbCINMTW6BzPT1EERI8WsmtXs1KUOWCGl5i5cMaTss-4X4/s320/bw5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Its coming up on kitten season...<br />
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Its the busy, Busy, BUSY time of year. So many people let their adult cats out to prowl, don't have them fixed, and the next thing you know its kitten season. Then again, sometimes people just abandon their cats to fend for themselves, and the next thing you know its kitten season.<br />
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Did i mention that its kitten season?<br />
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There are times when i've seen well over 150 cats and kittens at Blistered Whiskers. They always find themselves chock full of kittens about this time of year. These little kittens are fighting for their lives before they find their way to Blistered Whiskers. For some, it takes quite a bit of TLC to get them adopted out. Can you help us with some TLC? Here's how you can help:<br />
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We always need litter, kitten food, formula, bedding, and paper towels (lots of them). Any donations of these items are greatly appreciated. You can drop them off at the door if its more convenient for you.<br />
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We did our charity walk and golf tournament and raised over $2000 for the shelter. That's an outstanding start to kitten season, but money goes fast. Every kitty needs it's first shots and a visit to the vet for a clean bill of health before it can be adopted out. We do everything we can to keep our bills as low as possible, but it can add up. If you have the means, any monetary donation would certainly help. We are all volunteers, so all of the money that gets raised and/or donated goes straight to Blistered Whiskers. Not many places can say that. <br />
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We always need <u><b>reliable</b></u> volunteers. Feeding, socializing and cleaning the kitties is the order of every day at Blistered Whiskers. If you can't volunteer monetarily, how about volunteering your time? It is a no-kill shelter, so <u><b>every</b></u> kitty that comes in will have <u><b>every</b></u> chance to find a good loving home. Again, not many places can say that. We need reliable volunteers to be able to come in and help out. Trust me, there's always something to do - especially during kitten season. And there are few things more rewarding than bonding with a kitten from the moment they are born, being a surrogate parent, making sure they get everything they need, and then getting them to a wonderful home where they can be happy. Sometimes its tough work, but you get back so much more. But is is so important to be reliable. The kitties have needs and if someone doesn't show up, then their needs may not get met. Please remember, they're babies and can't make it without you.<br />
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We also need foster homes. These volunteers will take home a litter of kittens - usually but other arrangements can be made - and you do the parenting from home. Blistered Whiskers will set you up with everything you need. Our foster homes are the unsung heroes, because they still do the work needed, but since its from home, it saves us more space to be able to get more kittens in. It really is a win-win situation.<br />
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We're gonna make kitten season the best its ever been. But we can surely use any help you'd like to give. If you have any other questions about how you can help, please feel free to contact us. <br />
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Thank you,<br />
Paul ZimmermanBlistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-33722726878523683562011-02-03T21:34:00.000-08:002011-02-03T21:38:29.566-08:00FIV doesn't have to be the boogie man anymoreThe decade of the 80s is well remembered, among other things, for the AIDS scare. When the epidemy started, we didn't have a name for it and had no clue what was causing it, until around 1987 when the deadly retrovirus was identified and given the name HIV, Human Immunodeficiency Virus.<br />
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Around the same time, the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, or FIV, was also identified and for years, FIV built a mean reputation mostly for the fear and impression that the HIV virus was leaving on every mind, worldwide. FIV & HIV seemed too closely related, they had to be equally lethal.<br />
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Decades later, and with a lot more research into the topic, it seems we were all wrong! FIV is not what it was thought to be, and little by little the perception has been changing as studies, experience and true stories of cats with FIV leaving long happy lives are available to the public.<br />
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Francis Battista, Co-Founder of the Best Friends Animal Society, explains in a recent article than "...rather than being transmitted by casual contact such as sharing food and water bowls and even mutual grooming, FIV is only transmitted in utero from an infected mother to her kittens or by a serum-to-blood route, as in a deep bite wound. And not only was FIV not an easily transmitted disease, for the most part cats who had FIV lived long and uneventful lives when given normal attentive care that included early intervention for common maladies such as the sniffles."<br />
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So, it is fair to say that a positive FIV test is no longer a death sentence, not even a good estimator of the quality of life or life expectancy of the cat. This means that we can finally remove the stigma of being FIV+ and give these kitties the same opportunities to LIVE and to find their forever home by sharing the spotlight at adoption events, websites and other media with their FIV- friends. Many rescues are already changing their policies and it's my hope that PETCO will do so soon as well.<br />
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At this moment, PETCO does not allow rescue groups to bring FIV+ cats into their stores for adoption events. The old myth of FIV is robbing countless cats of the chance to be discovered by that perfect family, to find a forever home.<br />
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As with other illnesses, human or animal, studies and research are helping remove the stigma from FIV+ cats, now it's our turn to make sure we are informed, that we look for facts rather than myths and then act on this new information.<br />
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For more details on FIV, please check <a href="http://www.bestfriends.org/theanimals/petcare/cats_fiv.cfm">this list of FIV Facts published by Best Friends</a>.<br />
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Then, you can contact PETCO and respectfully ask them to remove this old policy and get with the times! You can contact Karen Meader, PETCO National Adoption Program Manager at <a href="mailto:karenmea@petco.com">karenmea@petco.com</a> and you can also <a href="http://www.thepetitionsite.com/2/tell-petco-to-lift-ban-on-fiv-cats/">sign the online petition available here</a><br />
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Lupemaria.Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-42270688624907477502011-01-30T21:21:00.000-08:002011-01-30T21:21:40.280-08:00I am a believer!I love books, I'm always reading one or two while at the same time I'm on the lookout for the next one. Always up for a good, touching, exciting or even shocking story.<br />
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Last year, I came across a book that caught my attention right away, the title was a direct punch to a general preconception, one that I shared, pet overpopulation. The title of the book was just too direct and intriguing: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Redemption-Myth-Overpopulation-Revolution-America/dp/0979074312/ref=tmm_pap_title_0">"Redemption: The Myth of Pet Overpopulation and the No Kill Revolution in America".</a><br />
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I saw this book and read its description, I was shocked, how can the author say this? I thought it was just like a lawyer trying to confuse with words, so, I did not buy the book, but I couldn't forget that title either, so I googled the book and its author...<br />
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In the Internet, I found many references to the author, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nathan_Winograd">Nathan J. Winograd</a>, most were either very good or very bad, few were in-between... I found many columns and articles he has written during the years and my mind was very confused; on the one side I wanted to believe the premise, but on the other I just couldn't believe it... I was so sure, for years, that we had a pet overpopulation problem that I never thought of questioning it. And even when I saw this book and read the title, I kept thinking that was a very good idea, but I was sure it couldn't be done in the real world, especially in open-admissions organizations, how could they??!!<br />
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Months passed and I couldn't forget this title, so eventually, I got the book and read it. It was so good and shocking that there wasn't a page that didn't make me think, react, question, feel awful, feel hopeful, cry, you name it!. I couldn't put it down, even when at times I really wanted to stop reading and forget all the facts, numbers and stories. Because sometimes the truth is so big it really hits you like a ton of bricks, and that's exactly what happened to me, and I thought I knew about rescues, shelters and pets!<br />
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Reading this book, you understand that this is the 'No-Kill EQUATION' because you need every single element to achieve the goal. The goal may seem so big that it's unatainable, but it is possible once we believe.<br />
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And here, finally, I understood that not all animal rescues & shelters are created equal. All rescues are helping in some way and I believe they all have their heart in the right place, but personally I am in awe of all the groups out there that are working towards the goal of No-Kill. This goal is not achieved overnight of course, but it makes a world of difference to know that a shelter believes in No-Kill and it's taking the necessary actions to move towards that goal. I admire these organizations because it takes a lot of courage and committment to take the tough road and these are the type of organizations that I love to help and support.<br />
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The elements of the No-Kill equation are simple, we all have heard them before, but when put together they are powerful and what's most important, they produce REAL results in real communities. They just make sense.<br />
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Here's the No-Kill Equation:<br />
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<ul><li>Feral Cat Trap-Neuter-Return Program</li>
<li>High-Volume, Low-Cost Spay/Neuter</li>
<li>Rescue Groups (working together)</li>
<li>Foster Care</li>
<li>Comprehensive Adoption Programs</li>
<li>Pet Retention</li>
<li>Medical and Behavior Programs</li>
<li>Public Relations/Community Involvement</li>
<li>Volunteers</li>
<li>Proactive Redemptions</li>
<li>A Compassionate Director</li>
</ul><br />
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I invite you to find out more about this movement and<a href="http://www.nokillnetwork.org/"> to identify, use and support the No Kill organizations</a> in our Community, a good example is<a href="http://www.facebook.com/BlisteredWhiskers?ref=ts"> Blistered Whiskers</a>.<br />
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If you want to read more about the No-Kill Equation, please go to <a href="http://www.nathanwinograd.com/?p=1832">Nathan Winograd's blog</a> and don't miss the <a href="http://www.nokilladvocacycenter.org/success.html">success stories posted in the No-Kill Advocacy Center's website</a> <br />
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Ready to joing in? It's easy! You have many options!<br />
1. You can help <a href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/">Blistered Whiskers </a>with<a href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/info/donate"> monetary, in-kind donations</a> or <a href="http://www.causes.com/causes/515103">spreading the word, Social Media is a wonderful thing! </a><br />
2. You can<a href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/info/display?PageID=3228"> become a foster parent!</a><br />
3. You can <a href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/animals/browse">adopt your next pet</a> and spread the word about adopting, not buying pets.<br />
4. <a href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/info/display?PageID=3264">Volunteer</a>, there's always so much work to do...<br />
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</div><div>Lupemaria.</div>Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-83136193942375162852011-01-24T18:48:00.000-08:002011-01-25T11:14:31.240-08:00A Peek Inside<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKL8OQzbNMkBVikJfHae_i9hi-mHesm_lYErYn1q8mc4xPp0gtnTr4Wlx4GDkJJ_VO-6ziQ_Osm6my_JxsURpfRGzh497LrFyW5-EQ_QDl5lKKFRZXEQjIh3MvLFqdYGGu-ICKcqRr260/s1600/IMG_5437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKL8OQzbNMkBVikJfHae_i9hi-mHesm_lYErYn1q8mc4xPp0gtnTr4Wlx4GDkJJ_VO-6ziQ_Osm6my_JxsURpfRGzh497LrFyW5-EQ_QDl5lKKFRZXEQjIh3MvLFqdYGGu-ICKcqRr260/s400/IMG_5437.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is Sam. He is about three years old, declawed, and pretty skinny. He was found in a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manhole">manhole</a> a bit ago, he couldn't have gotten there himself...I'll let you ponder how he got there (<i>hint: someone put him there</i>). Did I mention he's declawed? He's also pretty skittish of men, dogs, cats, women, children, blowdryers (even turned off), hair brushes...etc. etc. etc. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm visiting Blistered Whiskers from San Diego, CA. I fall in love with all of the cats I meet here, they're so sweet and loving...but I've only fallen in love with two enough to take home with me. This trip I had the pleasure to be Sam's roommate. At first he didn't really want anything to do with me, I mean, if you had a room all to yourself would you want a roommate? Probably not. Well, he caved by the time I hit the hay my first night...he decided to grace me with his presence and cuddle with me. I thought maybe it was a fluke, that was based on the shocked look on Maggi's (the shelter director) face.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The next day, I noticed every time I would walk in the room, Sam would get up from wherever he was and saunter to me, for scratchies. Keep in mind, he's <i>at least</i> 4 lbs underweight and his thighs are pretty emaciated looking...so walking is a <b>big</b> deal for him (and is currently part of his rehab). When I pat the bed, Sam jumps up for scratchies. When I pat the floor, he jumps down for scratchies. Most cats work for treats/food, he works for love. Last night he laid on my lap for about an hour before I finally fell asleep. Today he's been the same loving kitty he was yesterday...</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You might be wondering why I'm sharing this with you...I am just so amazed at how cats (and animals in general) are <i>so </i>forgiving of humanity. From what I can gather, Sam has had a rough three years, but he is still willing to give <b><i>me</i> </b>a chance. Sam is a special guy, sure he looks like ten thousand other brown/black tabbies...but to me he might just be one of those cats that I fall in love with <i>so</i> much, enough to take home to California with me. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sam's story is not the first of its kind, and it's certainly not the most horrible story I've heard while volunteering at Blistered Whiskers. We've got some real gems running around on the streets - but that's another story...There are <i>plenty</i> of sweet, loving, forgiving kitties running around Blistered Whiskers that are waiting for someone to discover them. Their gentle and loving demeanors are a direct product of the love they're getting from the awesome volunteers here. You won't find a better cat anywhere else. If you have room in your house for a cat, find him or her at <a href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/animals/browse">Blistered Whiskers</a>. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Below are a few pictures of Sam and our other roommate (who is up for <a href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/animals/browse">adoption</a>) Patches:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2C-xcfFNLhg-khjId8aKo7cKZ-bM8XUzPnmUI9g9u97pDyTpuRv8ElJZEmaavY6zdmomSiKer10S2Pv2dfzBjTYXvP54_G1HXpw7WG_NCNOROmD_mWZZ28CXX6zEytVRfQZ5LFwN6Oo/s1600/IMG_5547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2C-xcfFNLhg-khjId8aKo7cKZ-bM8XUzPnmUI9g9u97pDyTpuRv8ElJZEmaavY6zdmomSiKer10S2Pv2dfzBjTYXvP54_G1HXpw7WG_NCNOROmD_mWZZ28CXX6zEytVRfQZ5LFwN6Oo/s400/IMG_5547.JPG" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sam and I (excuse his grumpy face, he can't help it)</span></td></tr>
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</span></div>Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-72316415941991721162011-01-06T14:33:00.000-08:002011-01-06T15:08:31.598-08:00some thoughts on the new year<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_wioILU54jvsn2lW8ktDbDS7_WbQ6W7dinsJlyCg3qHKSS12E1yE9nH5aErIhDRvJHrO3V8esIxUsgX_CapBcTegqaagJ-P4HGlYhzhXvHYpLpJUj3y-95ZuK9W-3I0S-rzAcrQKY6M/s1600/bw1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_wioILU54jvsn2lW8ktDbDS7_WbQ6W7dinsJlyCg3qHKSS12E1yE9nH5aErIhDRvJHrO3V8esIxUsgX_CapBcTegqaagJ-P4HGlYhzhXvHYpLpJUj3y-95ZuK9W-3I0S-rzAcrQKY6M/s400/bw1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559209979049973762" border="0" /></a><br />Kitten Season... a term that's not easy to the Blistered Whiskers crew. Kitten season means more kittens than we can handle. We try to do our absolute best to accommodate as many as we can, but there's only so much money and so much space to go around. Inevitably, we have no choice but to turn away during the end of kitten season because there is simply no more space. There are so many mommas about to give birth, or that already have given birth, and then there's the new-born kittens that need attention. Some have more special needs than others, and some have many needs that strain the abilities of the volunteers and the organization. Trust me, we will persevere, and we will do our best. We've never failed. That is the important distinction. There's too much dedication to fail.<br /><br />But what can you do to help?<br /><br />First, how about adopting an older kitty? There are plenty of momma kitties who wound up being awesome mothers, their kittens got adopted out, and unfortunately the mommas never did get adopted out. If they're good mommas then most likely they're gonna be good pets. We try to get the kids adopted out first, then the adults. Most cats in the adult pen a re ready, very willing, and able to come to your house today. They'd LOVE a new forever home, they're cheaper than the kittens, they've already been socialized, they don't tear things up like a kitten could, and they've been snipped, so that's not an issue either. . They're just about as ready to say "let's go, i wanna love you" as it gets. Many of them are only a few years old, so there's plenty of time to enjoy them and they to you. We adopt out many adult cats during the years. This time of year is excellent to find yourself a new furry friend.<br /><br />Second, how about donating? Oh boy, there's always something that Blistered Whiskers needs. Cat litter, kitten food, formula, and money are just some of the things we need. The money goes to pay for so many different things, from vaccinations to special needs, to a myriad of things. They're very frugal with their money, its all on a volunteer basis, so nearly 100% of your donations goes directly to Blistered Whiskers. There are not many organizations that can make that claim.<br /><br />Lastly, how about volunteering? It might be the slow(er) season right this minute, but Kitten Season is on its way very soon. This would actually be a good time to get yourself accustomed to the organization as what it entails, get yourself on a schedule that works for you, see if its a good match, than to be thrown into the mix during kitten season. This way, you could go at your own pace, and ease into things. there's plenty of time for action during kitten season.<br /><br />You can make a difference in any way you choose. The kitties are waiting for you. This a purrfect time to get involved.<br /><br />Thank you and have a GREAT 2011...!!!<br />Paul ZimmermanBlistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-64177932472907140122010-12-08T17:05:00.001-08:002010-12-08T17:53:28.068-08:00COOL ACTS FROM COOL CATS<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC_P5LAP9nCCTM7omgmWwQ6r_cd7WxbVOp5_nSxsFarPs3XeewPIJKy_IwHBuBuf8goV1zWdWb2QLClwUslIN2o0anNaynWGA7PT7Al1bq3dWvXJ7sv4hpovFcymQ2mP4NKsFVVSLqSr8/s1600/Zara+1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 329px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC_P5LAP9nCCTM7omgmWwQ6r_cd7WxbVOp5_nSxsFarPs3XeewPIJKy_IwHBuBuf8goV1zWdWb2QLClwUslIN2o0anNaynWGA7PT7Al1bq3dWvXJ7sv4hpovFcymQ2mP4NKsFVVSLqSr8/s400/Zara+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548482576800977730" border="0" /></a><br /><br />You know why cats are cool? Because cats KNOW they're cool.<br /><br />This is my cat Zara, comfortably nestled upon my freshly washed clothes, looking like that is exactly where she needs to be. Never mind that its not where I want her to be. After all... she's the cat.<br /><br />I have a running joke about Zara that goes "i pay the rent and she lets me live here". Another running joke is "dogs have masters and cats have servants". <br /><br />But you know what...? Zara is so wonderful to me. Everyday, no matter how good or how bad my day is, when i walk thru the door her entire world is complete. Her talk sticks straight in the air and she comes running, just as happy as can be because her papa is home!!! She talks to me, tells me all about her day, and i tell her about mine. We'll play for as long as humanly (yes humanly) possible, because she can go and go. She never tires of being around her papa. For her, every day is a new adventure. Something we humans should embrace a little bit.<br /><br />She fetches. Yep, she fetches. She doesn't care if she acts like a dog. She is who she is, and she's just fine with that. She's cool because she's the cat.<br /><br />When it's time to go to sleep, she always says good night. Sometimes she'll "make biscuits", but every night she comes up and cuddles for a bit, then goes down to the foot of the bed, which is her spot.<br /><br />Did i mention Christmas is coming up? Yep, i wouldn't kid ya. At Blistered Whiskers, we have many new friends to choose from. One of those little furry critters would love to get a new home from you, and give you all the love you deserve. All of the kitties have been fixed and have a clean bill of health from a vet. Whether its a kitten or an older cat (boy they sure would love a wonderful home and have been waiting so patiently), i'm sure you could find a cool cat yourself... and start a new adventure... What a wonderful present for the both of you!!!<br /><br />Happy Holidays,<br />Paul ZimmermanBlistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-83121504334570983792010-11-18T10:42:00.000-08:002010-11-18T10:59:08.408-08:00Holiday Idea(s)...I'm not one to tell people how to spend their money or their time. Both are precious, and, especially in these difficult times, sometimes very limited. The holiday season can be stressful for any number of reasons. Work can be crazy, family and friends pull and push in every which direction, giving the "perfect gift" to put a smile on someone's face. Well... what about giving a gift for yourself? Yep, that's right, what about YOU during these times? Everyone needs a friend, and adopting an animal from a shelter gives you and your newest buddy the gift of life and of friendship. Together, you can make a huge difference in both of your worlds.<br /><br />Can't bring another animal home? Trust me, i can't either - I'd bring them all home if i could. No problem. What about volunteering at a shelter? My time at Blistered Whiskers was one of the most amazing times I've ever experienced. It helped put things in perspective for me, reminding me how important it is to give back to the world. These little kitties just want a chance in this world to be loved and to give their love back. Trust me... sometimes the work put in is less than glorious. Kitties get sick and there's litter boxes to be changed, etc. But when i walked thru the door on any given day, i had oodles of kitties all excited to see me, pushing over each other to be the first one that is loved. Most times, you can't get that from any person. The lives that we did save - and they continue to save - were so rewarding to me. To get a kitty off the street, all taken care of to be adopted, and then to get them a good loving home made all the work worth it and then some.<br /><br />I don't live in Phoenix anymore. I moved to be with my girlfriend and to - hopefully - get married. But i cherished my time at Blistered Whiskers. It was an amazing ride, and i hope to find a place in my new city that will be as good to, and as good for me, as they have been to me. Your time and donations keep the place going, they keep changing lives.<br /><br />And sometimes it seems that making a difference in this world - - - keeps it from spinning off it's axis. If you can't donate your time, or you can't adopt an animal, try volunteering. There's always something to do, and there's always a way to make a difference. No matter how small it might seem to you, sometimes it means the world to someone else...<br /><br />Happy Holidays to everyone...<br /><br />Paul ZimmermanBlistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-47259455722508034682010-11-15T09:16:00.000-08:002010-11-15T09:25:57.033-08:00On-line Fundraiser!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGYKG03HDW9MHX2M1UdGuBk30hdLj8O1BQOIORqbeu57nTubckU2jmaHrDMGRLDSnNXgyE_8XAyunYRCQ5Ebh-zLqF-Z5-2hANNNS3h4QqIoFC2exWkL4KyAKU2qhyphenhyphenk0Bi8WaJqTqEz04/s1600/bw+scentsy.png"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 509px; height: 600px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGYKG03HDW9MHX2M1UdGuBk30hdLj8O1BQOIORqbeu57nTubckU2jmaHrDMGRLDSnNXgyE_8XAyunYRCQ5Ebh-zLqF-Z5-2hANNNS3h4QqIoFC2exWkL4KyAKU2qhyphenhyphenk0Bi8WaJqTqEz04/s400/bw+scentsy.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539827216488194130" /></a><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>For some reason I can't figure out how to make this less blurry but large enough to read. Oh well, technology wins this time. Here are the details:</i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" >Blistered Whiskers and Scentsy are teaming up to help the kitties! </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" >Scentsy are flameless, wickless candles that are pet and kid safe! It's wax that never gets hot enough to burn you, and is food grade, and non toxic. The wax is heated by a 25 watt light bulb and emits your choice of over 80 scents for over 50 hours! They are affordable and make great gifts. Every pet owner should have at least one of these in their house! </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><b><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><b><span class="Apple-style-span" >How to help:</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><ul><li style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >Go to <a href="https://yourscentgal.scentsy.us/Browse">Scentsy</a> and make sure you scroll down to "Open Parties" and click on "Blistered Whiskers" (failure to do this will result in BW not getting funds!) </span></span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >Order up! Anything you order, Blistered Whiskers kitties get 15% of! </span></span></li></ul><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" >Please help us, these make fabulous gifts for family, friends and yourself! They will make your house and/or car smell like a slice of heaven! </span></div></div>Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-35222163080022446862010-11-08T19:49:00.000-08:002010-11-08T20:11:25.909-08:00Perseverance Thy Name Is Vinnie<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeFNPJbzKwfNsNzJv-OX-LUN2GesTkjm1r-S-M1TJEQXuu2Qp2zOHDjpBYZQAemT7f-f29wRoPn-AsSUStbnACudJBuvTxsQfNg5WehLuhhfWJjseweaKgV8F5LBAk48YKyNPd86croxk/s1600/L+%2526+V.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeFNPJbzKwfNsNzJv-OX-LUN2GesTkjm1r-S-M1TJEQXuu2Qp2zOHDjpBYZQAemT7f-f29wRoPn-AsSUStbnACudJBuvTxsQfNg5WehLuhhfWJjseweaKgV8F5LBAk48YKyNPd86croxk/s320/L+%2526+V.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537392719505141826" border="0" /></a>Sit right down and let me tell you a story about a special little guy. His name is Vinnie, and he's pictured above with his best friend Lexi - from the previous story. His story is one that will - hopefully - inspire you.<br /><br />Vinnie was born with only the top section of his back legs. He has just a small section of the lower bones below his knees, making it VERY painful for him to get around. It is so painful because the little bones that he has to walk on eventually work their way thru his skin!!!<br /><br />But look at this face. he is the happiest cat in the world. He doesn't give up, and is always purring and playing. Just not walking on his back legs whenever possible. There's a lesson to be learned there somewhere. no matter how painful his world can be... he's still to be a lover, still to be a normal kitty, still to give all the things a kitty can give. <br /><br />Moral to the story: life can give you difficulties, but its how you overcome those difficulties that makes the difference.Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-80234867819133783442010-10-08T16:06:00.000-07:002010-10-08T17:07:26.232-07:00Adoption fees and the lives it changes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8rBFhntge_ssl7xf5S2S1svNLHUCsgNgeXG3BTRnzpUUrdFsV2KCxirvmDUL73td4V8cqS3anBsf5dGnRuYwW0VjRxaHe6GWCKF0z_amjawiFg4hUWpLhIeg14typVOueR8T1oTDs-AI/s1600/007.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8rBFhntge_ssl7xf5S2S1svNLHUCsgNgeXG3BTRnzpUUrdFsV2KCxirvmDUL73td4V8cqS3anBsf5dGnRuYwW0VjRxaHe6GWCKF0z_amjawiFg4hUWpLhIeg14typVOueR8T1oTDs-AI/s320/007.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525821251285633474" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgME6kHqRJImqnGD3FgNQISuqwBJ5qIHx81bVL8o6odGUzMB-O-FUqwX-yGD4FoPnU4hvAsSRkAmfdITIQkflpSuWMgV6IFhk-Gwiik4JegTSJYcZNnjqykpjIQ6FqqFcEdW9XfWQvLpko/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgME6kHqRJImqnGD3FgNQISuqwBJ5qIHx81bVL8o6odGUzMB-O-FUqwX-yGD4FoPnU4hvAsSRkAmfdITIQkflpSuWMgV6IFhk-Gwiik4JegTSJYcZNnjqykpjIQ6FqqFcEdW9XfWQvLpko/s320/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525819056572074418" border="0" /></a><br />If you've ever happened into a shelter or a Petsmart, Petco or any other any other place thinking about adopting a cat, do you balk at the price? Do you say to yourself, "Gee... this price seems kinda high"? Does the price keep you from adopting a kitty? Let me tell you a story about one tough little girl, and perhaps it will explain where your money goes. Hopefully the story will be worth the price of admission... or adoption, as it were.<br /><br />Lexi had the world stacked against her from the start. She was the runt of the litter. Her momma passed a few weeks after giving birth. We put her in a kennel with another momma and her kittens hoping the momma would adopt her and the other kittens would accept her as one of their own. No matter how hard we tried, the new momma and her kittens just rejected poor Lexi right from the start. She just huddled up in a little ball, so scared because the others would hiss at her and swat her little head. It seemed nobody wanted her. That is... except for us.<br /><br />The next thing going against her was the she was a Failure To Thrive kitten. She was very sick for quite a long time. She couldn't put on any weight, nor would she grow in size. The picture above is Lexi at 10 weeks old, which is easily one-third the size of what she should have been.<br /><br />There were times we would have to force feed her thru a syringe. As time went on, she got sicker. She became dehydrated and it almost killed her. I went home many nights wondering if she would make it thru the night, and saying my prayers that God would help us help her. The things we put her thru would have made just about any person give up. She never gave up. Just as sweet as could be, she would cry from the pain of needles and medication, yet she also trusted us to do what we could.<br /><br />It took a long time, a good deal of money (this is where the adoption price comes in) and a lot of love to get her where she needed to be. Slowly but surely she got better. She hardly grew in size, but her energy came back. Not too long after that she would play a little. After that, she started following us around and seemed to have endless energy - as a kitten should. She would purr this soft little sound, then come and take a quick bite out of your finger. We were having success!!! After another few weeks, she FINALLY started putting on some weight and growing. She was becoming a big girl now!!!<br /><br />To end the story, she's all grown up. She's happy and healthy and has herself a wonderful loving home. The little girl who could barely stand, barely breath, and several times had us in tears pulled it all together - - and she's bright, shiny and beautiful.<br /><br />So now... about that adoption fee. Your adoption fee helps you save the life your your newest bestest friend that you will be taking home with you, but also goes to save the lives of many other cats and kittens that have stories similar to Lexi's. The adoption fee helps everyone.<br /><br />Instead of feeling sorry for a cat or kitten... adopt one!!!<br /><br />Paul ZimmermanBlistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-71063636515390458922010-10-04T09:49:00.001-07:002010-10-04T09:58:21.409-07:00Best friends are a wonderful thing...<div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Last week, my best friend from Guadalajara arrived here in Phoenix for a visit, and I couldn't be any happier. We met 25 years ago and sometimes we don't see each other often, especially since we live in different countries now, but that really hasn't changed the fact that we're best friends and we have a very special bond that will last forever and ever!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Friendship and companionship are not exclusive needs to us people, many species create such bonds with other animals and with the humans in their lives... and this is the case for most of our pets.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Sometimes these friendships come naturally, they just meet and click, sometimes it takes a little more time for them to get to know each other, but at the end, a very special relationship can happen and enrich their lives just like our friends enrich ours.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This is why i think that ideally, we all should have at least a couple of pets, make sure they have a very best friend living right beside them...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The very first time we thought about adopting a cat, I did not understand this very well, I remember that my intention was to get A cat, having more than 1 cat never entered my mind... luckily, my husband was there with me when we went to see cats and he twisted my arm a little bit until I accepted to adopt 2 cats. I accepted not because I really got it, I didn't, but because he was so sure that was the best thing to do and I don't know if he said or just felt like he said "just trust me", so, what was I to do?... </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">... Adopt 2 cats and as the weeks went by, I really got it, getting the 2 cats was the best decision we could have made.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">These cats were Benito and Gatilla, they were not siblings, they were in different enclosures at the adoption center, Benito was about 6 months of age, Gatilla was about a year... and since we didn't know a thing about cats and introductions, we just bought a carrier, got the 2 cats in there together and headed home.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Even if Benito was just 6 months old, he was never a true kitten, he spent his days sleeping and Gatilla spent her days around Benito, licking him, cuddling with him, very maternal. And we thought it was all normal behavior, but less than a week after we adopted them, we noticed one morning something like a thick and brown paste was coming out of Benito's ear, so I headed to our very first veterinary appointment.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">He was running a fever, which we were told explained all the sleeping and lack of 'kitten' normal behavior... plus he had a full list of infections and illnesses, I have to admit it was a bit overwhelming, especially when they told us he may not live much longer. So it started a period of about 5 months when we were in and out of the vet's office, but after that, we were happy to see how he was feeling much better.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">During this time, Benito and Gatilla's bond grew by the hour, Benito wouldn't be just the recipient of her caring, but now he was reciprocating, he followed her around, played with her, it was really special to see them together and how Gatilla played a big role in helping Benito recover.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">During these months, they bonded with each other, Gatilla bonded with us, but Benito kept a little distance, he probably thought I was just a big walking medicine dispenser.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">After another 5 or 6 months, we noticed that now it was Gatilla that wasn't feeling very well and we were told the scary diagnostic, She had Feline Leukemia. We couldn't understand why, in her adoption papers it said she had tested negative and after she had all the boosters/vaccines appropriate for her age, but that didn't change the fact that she was sick and could only stay with us for a very short time.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">During this short time, their roles reversed, it was now Benito that seemed to take care of her, he even stopped trying to play with her, he knew somehow that she wasn't up to it, it was all hugs and kisses.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The very first night she was no longer sleeping beside me, to my surprise, Benito did, and I cried, and I felt he was also missing her, mourning her... after that, he slept with me every single night, right on my pillow where Gatilla used to sleep, I think that was the very first moment when Benito and I truly clicked.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Theirs was a very special friendship, even if it lasted only a little over a year. They were there for each other in the good and the bad times, and during the bad times, they provided such love and comfort to each other. We loved them dearly, but I am not sure we could have provided them with what they got from each other, it was truly special to see them together and the lessons I learned from them, invaluable.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">We missed Gatilla terribly and it was sweet and sad at the same time to see how much Benito</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">was also missing her, so it didn't take us long to decide that he needed, we all needed, a new friend in our lives. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Benito and Gatilla took a pair of inexperienced, amateur cat owners and turned us into pet parents for life.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I would whole-heartedly say to any parent of a single pet, to go and find that perfect friend for your pet or if considering adopting a new pet, get at least two, it is hard to put into words how rewarding friendships are for our pet kids, but again, I don't have to put it in words because we all have that best friend that helps us understand and feel how awesome best friends are.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I heart best friends ;D</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Lupemaria</span></span></div>Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-7358491673341392772010-09-17T16:38:00.000-07:002010-09-17T18:09:09.379-07:00A Standing Ovation to Blistered Whiskers & No-Kill Rescues all over!<div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhoJv4PQATcQskRpBqDs94son8CGbtXLfDh69vmSoqf0hHQc6EfPW0Fpdin9RLREELU1QcLnonezYN5DDD8lqMv-SOTlHU_sF4yvx1oNuppxQIoE2Kfw2ImqxaDE0WS23p7yY9JXe-V5E/s1600/DresdenAndHisPetCat.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhoJv4PQATcQskRpBqDs94son8CGbtXLfDh69vmSoqf0hHQc6EfPW0Fpdin9RLREELU1QcLnonezYN5DDD8lqMv-SOTlHU_sF4yvx1oNuppxQIoE2Kfw2ImqxaDE0WS23p7yY9JXe-V5E/s320/DresdenAndHisPetCat.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518051894063613778" /></a><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><u><br /></u></span></div>Up until a couple of years ago, we had always adopted adult cats, and every single one was and is an amazing journey, but a little over 2 years ago, we went into uncharted territory, we adopted a single Kitten!<div><br /></div><div>We were watching the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">AHS</span> Pet Telethon on TV and we were overwhelmed to see all the pets without a home and a family to spoil them, immediately we decided to go and get a new furry family member. So we went to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">PetSmart</span>, and my husband spotted a tiny 3 month old orange tabby, all by himself but practically jumping off the walls of the little enclosure; it was love at first sight, we decided to bring him home right there and then.</div><div><br /></div><div>That's when we discovered that kittens and adult cats may be the same species, but they are really not, we were completely taken by surprise by the level of activity and no-stop energy he had, and of course, our older cats noticed that too, and nobody was very happy about it...</div><div><br /></div><div>After about 3 weeks we conceded defeat, this was not going to work out, poor tiny Diego was always wanting more and more play and attention, we just couldn't keep up and our older cats were going crazier by the minute.</div><div><br /></div><div>Giving Diego away was never a thought or an option, he was driving us all nuts, but we already loved him to bits, so, we went with the only alternative we had, getting an other kitten! The very next day, we headed back to a Pet Store, at that time, all we were looking for was a male kitten, around 4 months of age, of similar size to Diego... and we found him...</div><div><br /></div><div>"Hank" was by himself but seemed quite different from Diego, he was asleep, he had his back to the door and even after the door was opened, he did not acknowledge us, he didn't turn around when we started petting him... he seemed very shy, but that was no problem for us, we adopted him on the spot and as soon as we got home, we turned him loose in a room with Diego... we could not wait the recommended couple of weeks before making introductions, we were that desperate!</div><div><br /></div><div>It was great to see them together, finally somebody was keeping up with Diego... and all the adults, human and cat alike, were happy ;D A family crisis had been averted.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the adoption paperwork I noticed that "Hank" (now called Dresden) had arrived at HALO from another rescue group, one that I knew was a kill rescue... and at that time I didn't think much of it. Months passed, and one day, I was online trying to find out more about HALO and to my surprise, the website said they didn't take pets from the public, they take pets mostly from kill rescues, they take animals that are at risk of being euthanized for whatever reasons. </div><div><br /></div><div>I could not wrap my mind around the thought that there was a possibility that my Dresden, my unbelievable loving, sweet Dresden, was in such risk.</div><div><br /></div><div>I had heard for years about pet overpopulation and the fact that millions of pets are routinely euthanized, all around the country for this reason, but, once I pictured my Dresden in that risk, in that dreaded list, it really brought the point home for me. The point that millions of healthy, loving and adoptable pets are dying, just like that.</div><div><br /></div><div>There are many opinions out there on why this problem exists and if it's solvable or not, but i personally think it is, it just requires consistent work and an unconditional commitment to the animals from the animal organizations and the pet parents. Imagine the number of kittens and puppies that could be spared from this fate just by spaying/neutering and extensive <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">TNR</span>... Then responsible and committed pet ownership... These 2 things alone already have a big impact for a lot of animals, but it could be much much larger.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is why support for the no-kill rescues and organizations in our community is vital, a lot of them are small organizations, but their impact on the animals they touch is big, their impact on the families that adopt their pets is undeniable, their impact in educating the community and raising awareness on this problem and the fact that there are solutions to it, invaluable!</div><div><br /></div><div>I just have to take a look at my Dresden to know that no-kill rescue groups are the future, they have to be. In the picture above, my Dresden is waking up from his nap with his pet cat... His pet cat used to be the gel wrist rest shaped like a cat that I had by my computer mouse, until Dresden adopted him. Just adorable!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Lupemaria</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div></div></div>Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-32390572893167421462010-09-09T07:05:00.000-07:002010-09-09T07:11:20.338-07:00A Pet's 10 Commandments<img src="file:///C:/Users/Paul/Pictures/Zara/Zara%201.jpg" alt="" />I got this from an email that has been circulating for years. I'm posting it because i believe in it and all that it contains. Enjoy...<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; font-family: arial;">A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt;">1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. You are my world.</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt;">2. Give me time to understand what you want of me</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt;">3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt;">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 have only you.</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt;">5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt;">6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt;">7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt;">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.</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt;">9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt;">10 On the ultimate 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.</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt;">~Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them.</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 18pt;">Life would be a much duller, less joyful experience without God's critters.</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></span>Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-73118589293763995292010-09-05T14:16:00.000-07:002010-09-05T15:38:57.019-07:00Thank you TNR !! (Trap-Neuter-Return)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfnH9y8X1-i5KiTX4TzAbPW-1p_2ufOQulwqSmaxgMxVchnDAvlxM4gWG9FWILzEuLtmiDqydmXyfpM53jkidS1vVuABj_UDR33FQ1g_M7ExulBepDiPokVR-6Q0izAffiQER227DkMrE/s1600/DexterAndRonan.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfnH9y8X1-i5KiTX4TzAbPW-1p_2ufOQulwqSmaxgMxVchnDAvlxM4gWG9FWILzEuLtmiDqydmXyfpM53jkidS1vVuABj_UDR33FQ1g_M7ExulBepDiPokVR-6Q0izAffiQER227DkMrE/s320/DexterAndRonan.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513561746030031810" /></a><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I have always thought that TNR is an excellent practice, it helps control the population in feral cat colonies... lets the older cats continue their lives as they know them, with none or minimal human intervention... the quality of life for these adult cats improve because they won't have the hormones to incite aggressive behavior, competition for mates, for food, pregnancies, heat cycles... and for the kittens already born, if they are young enough, they can still be rescued, socialized and they can go on to find a home and a family.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">TNR seems like a no-brainer, a win-win situation.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Today, I believe in TNR even more, and I am very grateful for the people that take this task upon themselves. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Throughout the years, we have adopted 9 cats from different rescues around the Phoenix area, but when we adopted our 'little ones' a couple of months ago, we had a first. It was the first time that we got to meet the foster parents that had taken care of our kittens before we even knew them. I was thrilled to be able to talk to them about my Dexter & Ronan, to hear stories of how they behaved, what they liked, how they interacted with the other cats in their foster home, funny stories, you name it! we asked... </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Dexter and Ronan were the 2 males in a liter of 4 kittens, they were all fostered together, and by the time we met them, the 2 sisters had already been adopted, so it was just them... for some reason, I assumed that somebody had surrendered the 4 kittens to the rescue group because they couldn't care for them and I was completely blown away when I heard this was not the case... </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">My Dexter and Ronan were born homeless, to a feral mom and for weeks this cat mama must have had a tough time out there, in the hot Phoenix weather and with 4 little kittens to take care of and feed on her own. And along comes a very nice lady, who loves cats with a passion and sets up a trap in the vicinity, she wanted to give the mom and the 4 kittens a second chance.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">She was able to trap the cat mom and the 2 female kittens in one night, but the 2 male kitties couldn't be persuaded to join the family, so they actually stayed on their own, out there, without even their cat mama and sisters for almost a full day. The next evening, she was so relieved when she was able to trap the 2 little male kittens and have the family re-united again.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">After trapping this cat family, Charlotte took it upon herself to foster the 4 kittens until they were big and strong enough to be neutered/spayed and be put up for adoption. She also had some hope for the cat mama, maybe she could be placed into a home, and she tried for a couple of months to bring her around, but eventually realized that she was feral and not likely to be persuaded to turn into a lazy, pampered house cat. So, she had her spayed and returned her to her "outdoor" home.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">2 months later, I walked into a PetSmart, leaning towards adopting a young cat but still thinking about it and 'Tiger' caught my eye immediately, he was asleep, but something about him caught my attention and I was hooked. We also saw a very playful kitty outside his enclosure, playing with some kids and my husband was drawn to him immediately, his name was 'Scooby'.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">We decided to ask about Tiger & Scooby and that's when we were told they were brothers, even if Tiger looked much smaller than Scooby... and that was it, we just had to take both of them home, it just seemed like the best thing to do, and later, once we were home and had a chance to see them together, we realized we had made the perfect decision, they were perfect together, they slept together, played together, groom together and little 'Tiger', the smallest of the pair, just kept following Scooby around. I really think that little Tiger would have been a bit lost if he didn't have his brother with him all of a sudden.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">A little over a month has passed, my little ones are growing like crazy, they got new names, Dexter and Ronan, they are completely integrated with the rest of the cats in our home, they are even best buddies with some of them already and we couldn't be happier, we couldn't imagine our family without these 2 little rascals. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I owe my 2 little ones to the practice of TNR and a great lady that saw this cat family fending for itself and took it upon herself to give them a new life.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This is a perfect example of how TNR really has an impact on the lives of people and cats... 4 homeless kittens have homes and loving families, a feral cat mama is now spayed and living her life without the burden and risk of more pregnancies and she won't bring more homeless kittens into this world...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">TNR is hard work, but it works! and rescue groups like Blistered Whiskers that are out there doing this hard work and trying to get better lives for these little furry balls and their cat mamas are very special people that put their love of animals to action. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">THANK YOU!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Lupemaria</span></span></div><div><br /></div></div>Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-301013219783693362010-08-31T11:00:00.001-07:002010-08-31T11:16:22.167-07:00My Dear Qtip<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7mES5OW0OtuBB7uokLUEjDeSoVoMhGKrJ_KCCGK0a4x0DZ23IF_7fPWsG5aVlitn50kCzunQgNWaeNybzymQF3VEqUfqBvm-WbC0KCVq1lb78H6cSVWANLsXCjOOYhaRD77Z48MQFgaE/s1600/MyQtip.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 231px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7mES5OW0OtuBB7uokLUEjDeSoVoMhGKrJ_KCCGK0a4x0DZ23IF_7fPWsG5aVlitn50kCzunQgNWaeNybzymQF3VEqUfqBvm-WbC0KCVq1lb78H6cSVWANLsXCjOOYhaRD77Z48MQFgaE/s400/MyQtip.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511638560477045058" /></a><br /><div>I wanted my first blog for Blistered Whiskers to be about something very interesting, current, inspirational... but these days, all that comes to mind is my Qtip.</div><div><br /></div><div>Qtip is my oldest pet kid, he is almost 18 years old, he has been part of our family for 12 years. It sounds like a long time, but it doesn't feel long enough.</div><div><br /></div><div>Last week he was diagnosed with Chronic Renal Failure, his blood & urine tests don't look very good, even after 3 days of getting fluids/potassium with an IV, but he is eating and he looks much better than the numbers do, so we're just going to take it day by day, week by week. And for sure, we are going to spoil him to bits, isn't it odd that his absolute favorite treat is the fish-flavored hairball remedy? We have a couple of extra tubes handy now.</div><div><br /></div><div>Qtip's life with us is full of happy, funny and first moments, so I get to cry and laugh as all these stories rush to mind.</div><div><br /></div><div>I love that he always makes a point to sleep on the bed around me... I love that he is such a gentle alpha-cat, he keeps all his brothers in-line, just with a meow... I love how he used to sit down with us to watch T.V... I love how he has welcomed 6 pet siblings that came after him... I love his eyes, they are huge, full of life, and blue and green! ... I love to watch him sleep, belly up... I love how he communicates with us, somehow he lets us know, very clearly, what he wants or needs... I love how he trusts me, even when I have my scissors in hand and ready to cut any tangled hair...</div><div><br /></div><div>When he first joined the family, the third day he was home, he was still spending nights in his own room because we wanted to give our other 2 cats more time to get to know him and didn't want any incidents while we slept. That night, all of a sudden, I'm sound asleep and I hear a door opening; I was really scared until a moment later when I saw Qtip entering the room and joining us on the bed, just like that, no incidents with his brothers, no hisses, in fact, after a short time, he was best friends with our orange tabby Benito.</div><div><br /></div><div>Qtip was a big traveler in his youth; he used to live in Scottsdale, AZ... Then he moved with his family to San Francisco and later back to Phoenix when he joined our household. He is the only one of my cats to have traveled in an airplane, and what a wild and stinky ride that was! (They fed him before the trip!). </div><div><br /></div><div>I admit that when we first talked about bringing Qtip to our home I was a bit concerned, I thought that we had 2 cats already and they were perfect together, what if Qtip did not get along with them? What if Qtip just didn't adapt to an indoors life after being allowed outside for so many years? But it was clear to us that he could be happier in our home, so, we said yes and hoped for the best. And the best indeed happened...</div><div><br /></div><div>I firmly believe that the easiness with how our first cat trio integrated and how much we came to adore them, gave us the confidence and the need to open our hearts to other cats as years went by. Back then we were new to this wonderful world of cats and now we are a big cat family of 8, they go from 5 months to 18 years old, and we wouldn't have it any other way. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is not the first time we are facing a situation like this (unfortunately) and it doesn't get any easier, I'm terrified of not being able to clearly know that moment when fighting to keep him with us a little longer is more for my benefit than for his.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am very happy to have Qtip in our lives all this time and to know that he has been happy with us and that he knows how much we love him and care for him... I sincerely wish that all pets can find a forever home and just be as happy and care-free as my Qtip is, and while they all find their forever families, it’s great that animal lovers everywhere are banding together to help and support groups like Blistered Whiskers that are making a difference out there by rescuing, rehabilitating, spaying/neutering and adopting pets, talk about selfless actions!</div><div><br /></div><div>Everybody just go and give a big hug to your loved ones, furry and not so furry...</div><div><br /></div><div>Best Wishes,</div><div>Lupemaria</div>Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-71453528396351137712010-08-26T09:57:00.000-07:002010-08-26T10:26:42.516-07:00THE POWER OF LOVE FROM A PET2004 was a very difficult year for me. In March of that year, my father passed away. I was the one who had to take him off of oxygen and watch him die. Less than a month later my 21 year old nephew also passed away from suicide. I was executor of my family's estate, had never done that before, and the complications from that were mind-boggling. I was also putting in 60-70 hour work weeks, and recently evicted a friend of mine because of his drinking.My father's bills were piled high with no idea how i was gonna get them paid, and there was so much legal stuff that i didn't know. I had no idea how i was gonna keep all of this together, and i was wearing down pretty fast. The stress from all of this was giving me insomnia, which in turn made me even more tired and run down.<br /><br />One night i let it all get to me. I sat on the couch with my legs crossed and my face buried in my hands. I tried to fight back the tears, but the moment i let the first one out the rest just came in a flood. Soon i was sobbing uncontrollably, afraid that i really was going to fall apart. What if i fell apart? Would i then be able to compose myself and get on with things, or would i just sit there and fall to pieces? I felt very alone, very sad, and at my limit.<br /><br />As those thoughts, and about a million others, flooded my mind, i felt these little whiskers brush up against my right arm. It was Zara, my black kitty. I stayed blocked off, not even wanting my cat to see me cry. She would have none of it. She pushed my right arm to the side just enough so that she could get onto my lap. Slowly she sat down, found a comfy spot, and looked up at me with these slow blinking loving eyes. Then she gave me a very soft but deliberate "reower" and just kept my eyes focused on her. She just sat there purring and looking up at me and talking to me. It was as if to say "Papa, i'm here, no matter what happens i love you and you can always count on me to love you and make it better".<br /><br />Well... the sobbing stopped and i started to laugh a little bit. Zara is affectionate, but never forces herself on me. She's always near by, but never has she done that in the past, nor has she ever done that since. But it seemed she understood what i really needed at that moment, and she fought me to get to me to comfort me. From that point on, my stresses seemed a little easier. It was one of those moments that are so complex, and yet so simple, that has resonated in my mind and heart since then.<br /><br />The power of love from a pet...<br /><br />Perhaps your friend is waiting for you. Would you please find a shelter and help save a life? They just might save yours as well. If you can't adopt a cat, perhaps a donation so that others may find their bestest friend and change two lives? Sometimes the greatest gifts are life and love.<br /><br />Thank you...<br /><br />Paul ZimmermanBlistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-15470057686807731102010-04-09T22:24:00.000-07:002010-04-09T22:59:05.586-07:00A Good DayAt Blistered Whiskers, we practice the trap-neuter-release policy and some of our volunteers are master-trappers...meaning they go out at night, set up these bunny cage looking things with food in them and leave them in areas that are highly populated with "wild" cats that need to be spayed/neutered. After we catch them, we get them fixed and release them back in to the exact location we got them from.<br /><br />That being said, last week we got a call from a concerned man living near 19th and West Berridge in Phoenix. He said there was a bunch of kittens and their mom living in an irrigation tunnel and he was afraid the water would turn on and they would drown! After some calls to the water company we were unable to get the irrigation schedule so we didn't know exactly when the water was going to run. Oh, and for those unfamiliar with irrigation, the process is the pipe fills with water and they basically flood the yards with water allowing them to soak it up. So, after an hour or so of the possibility of the water being turned on the next morning, the director of Blistered Whiskers and a few loyal volunteers ride out to the location to survey the situation...<br /><br />What we found was a mom and her FIVE TINY babies that were maybe a few days old, holed up in a tunnel that's about 10 inches in diameter...oh and of course they were about 40-50 feet back from the only opening...great! Not having any idea on how to get them out, the trusty Blistered Whiskers folk leave them that night...<br /><br /><br />Flash foward to a week later, the kitten-family is still there...and the nice man that first reported them called back to tell us that the irrigation was scheduled for the next day at 9am! Oohhh eeemmmm geeee! We had to act FAST, considering it was mid-day when this information came in!<br /><br /><br />The director, Maggi, called our local PETA representative who called in some reinforcements who surveyed the pipe to see how thick it was and how far back the kittens were....and if there were any openings we could scare them to. Of course there were not any openings, but many bends in the pipe and even little 2 inch deep divets that the kittens would surely get stuck in if we tried to net them out...ugh! What to do? Well, The Salt River Project was the company that runs irrigation and they said they would gladly cancel it if BOTH neighbors that paid for the irrigation agreed to push it back a week...sounds reasonable, can you believe it's a whole block of irrigation and only two people pay for it? So, Blistered Whiskers tracks down these two neighbors and one man says no problem, but the other lady said to get off of her lawn and shoo'd us out, basically. For some unknown reason she was very unwilling to help...so, we had a time crunch.<br /><br /><br />It's 7pm and the irrigation runs at 9am. We have a cement pipe and a bunch of clay-dirt keeping us from these kittens...what to do? After we exhausted all options, I mean, we were writing our city council members and everything! We decided to get some manual labor involved...I can't say the exact process of extracting these kittens, but I will say that we fixed whatever damage was done, if any...<br /><br /><br />So, to wrap this up - YES WE DID SAVE THEM! All of them! After many volunteers and many hours spent on these kittens, they are all enjoying the nice warm kitten room at Blistered Whiskers, along with their timid mother. See the pictures below!<br /><br /><br /><div align="center">Measuring how far back the kittens were, and exploring the tunnel:</div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOT-hUNBa_IWwE7uxaDTFyddeVFEP53eWjMZU4rrDIEUdSHQHbNk3yNDgD-rUWRfhJhHXIp05hUFeNUei40jpwkxi2gwcR6CkuwgWPyW9ynK7ZmGPXO9wa_17mjfHjVWRbMdLAD40Rdqc/s1600/imagejpeg_3.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 241px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458382142980027202" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOT-hUNBa_IWwE7uxaDTFyddeVFEP53eWjMZU4rrDIEUdSHQHbNk3yNDgD-rUWRfhJhHXIp05hUFeNUei40jpwkxi2gwcR6CkuwgWPyW9ynK7ZmGPXO9wa_17mjfHjVWRbMdLAD40Rdqc/s320/imagejpeg_3.jpg" /></a> </div><div align="center">And finally, introducing "The Pipe Kitties"! Available for adoption in 7-9 weeks!</div><div align="center"><br /><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgkIwi16wxCMcldn7dgVHjy4DxmDbRXMwkh10BXrmzpxtrfRqAKLLqitybhYECF01j8kBC9Xec1cUS3Kwl6DsnBZLQim1Q40qzzhr6ouA-l1eMnzPBOYt61EMzhm24D4v1FkMzBWlnEUc/s1600/pipe+kitties.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458382151600727490" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgkIwi16wxCMcldn7dgVHjy4DxmDbRXMwkh10BXrmzpxtrfRqAKLLqitybhYECF01j8kBC9Xec1cUS3Kwl6DsnBZLQim1Q40qzzhr6ouA-l1eMnzPBOYt61EMzhm24D4v1FkMzBWlnEUc/s320/pipe+kitties.JPG" /></a> <div align="center"> </div><div align="center">Here is the article on PETA.org:</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.peta.org/actioncenter/ActionAlerts-item.asp?id=3038">http://www.peta.org/actioncenter/ActionAlerts-item.asp?id=3038</a></div><div align="center"><br />Thank you to all of the volunteers that helped rescue these kittens! You made a difference! :)<br /></div>Blistered Whiskershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17619911292710606314noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-17164503647453084332010-02-08T09:04:00.000-08:002010-02-08T09:47:28.728-08:00Valentine's Day Tips<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV6mhz0SYZlc0o16_HjYMGq22amnQLGG6p3JePq34-W5GQU6fmXuVm-XC68EFRcyAVr2cY_oCWZHu67_udrw-7A3RoSSurK2dd5WQZsx-m2I7foa5BgOKH9FAa3HFlsudRVzcGZxfZ55ah/s1600-h/s1373a2094383m4442944.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 314px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV6mhz0SYZlc0o16_HjYMGq22amnQLGG6p3JePq34-W5GQU6fmXuVm-XC68EFRcyAVr2cY_oCWZHu67_udrw-7A3RoSSurK2dd5WQZsx-m2I7foa5BgOKH9FAa3HFlsudRVzcGZxfZ55ah/s320/s1373a2094383m4442944.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430324780170403506" border="0" /></a>Click <a href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/animals/browse">HERE</a> for more information on how to<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;">adopt Tabitha and her friends at <a href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/">Blistered Whiskers</a>.<br /></div><br /></div><a href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/">Blistered Whiskers</a> wishes you and your furbabies a Happy Valentine's Day full of love! Follow these helpful tips from <a href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/valentines-day-tips.html">ASPCA</a> on how to keep your pets safe during the Valentine's Day fun:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Valentine’s Day can be as much fun for pets as it is for humans if </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/people-foods.html">dangerous foods</a><span style="font-style: italic;">, </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/17-common-poisonous-plants.html">flora</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> and other items are kept out of paws’ reach. Each year our poison control experts see a rise in cases around February 14, many involving chocolate and lilies, a flower that’s potentially fatal to cats. So please heed our experts’ advice—don’t leave the goodies lying around on Lover’s Day. </span> <strong style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Pet-Safe Bouquets</strong> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Many pet owners are still unaware that all species of lily are potentially fatal to cats. When sending a floral arrangement, specify that it contain no lilies if the recipient has a cat—and when receiving an arrangement, sift through and remove </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/17-common-poisonous-plants.html">all dangerous flora</a><span style="font-style: italic;">. If your pet is suffering from symptoms such as stomach upset, vomiting or diarrhea, he may have ingested an offending flower or plant. Use our online </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/">toxic and nontoxic plant</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> libraries as visual guides of what and what not should be in your bouquets. </span> <strong style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Forbidden Chocolate</strong> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Seasoned pet lovers know the potentially life-threatening dangers of chocolate, including baker’s, semi sweet, milk and dark. In darker chocolates, methylxanthines—caffeine-like stimulants that affect gastrointestinal, neurologic and cardiac function—can cause vomiting/diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures and an abnormally elevated heart rate. The high-fat content in lighter chocolates can potentially lead to a life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas. Go ahead and indulge, but don’t leave chocolate out for chowhounds to find. </span> <strong style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Careful with Cocktails</strong><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Spilled wine, half a glass of champagne, some leftover liquor are nothing to cry over until a curious pet laps them up. Because animals are smaller than humans, a little bit of alcohol can do a lot of harm, causing vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, central nervous system depression, tremors, difficulty breathing, metabolic disturbances and even coma. Potentially fatal respiratory failure can also occur if a large enough amount is ingested. </span> <strong style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Life Is Sweet</strong><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">So don’t let pets near treats sweetened with xylitol. If ingested, gum, candy and other treats that include this sweetener can result in a sudden drop in blood sugar known as hypoglycemia. This can cause your pet to suffer depression, loss of coordination and seizures. </span> <strong style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Every Rose Has Its Thorn</strong> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Don’t let pets near roses or other thorny stemmed flowers. Biting, stepping on or swallowing their sharp, woody spines can cause serious infection if a puncture occurs. “It’s all too easy for pets to step on thorns that fall to the ground as a flower arrangement is being created,” says Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine for the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital. De-thorn your roses far away from pets. </span> <strong style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Playing with Fire</strong> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />It’s nice to set your evening a-glow with candlelight, but put out the fire when you leave the room. Pawing kittens and nosy pooches can burn themselves or cause a fire by knocking over unattended candles. </span> <strong style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Wrap it Up</strong> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Gather up tape, ribbons, bows, wrapping paper, cellophane and balloons after presents have been opened—if swallowed, these long, stringy and “fun-to-chew” items can get lodged in your pet’s throat or digestive tract, causing her to choke or vomit. </span> <strong style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />The Furry Gift of Life?</strong> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Giving a cuddly puppy or kitten may seem a fitting Valentine’s Day gift—however, returning a pet you hadn’t planned on is anything but romantic. Companion animals bring with them a lifelong commitment, and choosing a pet for someone else doesn’t always turn out right. Take a romantic trip to the local shelter together.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-17070499650305293372010-01-24T06:41:00.000-08:002010-01-24T06:57:54.357-08:00PetSmart Charities PetwalkHello to all our great volunteers and supporters! It's time to register for the <a href="http://support.petsmartcharities.org/site/TR?fr_id=1040&pg=entry">2nd Annual Petsmart Charities Petwalk</a>, this will really be a fun day for all of us. The date is <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">February 21st, 2010 at 1:00pm at Tempe Town Lake</span>. We will have a booth there and will be promoting our organization. Blistered Whiskers will receive 100% of the money donated to our walkers.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">How you can help:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">-You can be a volunteer at our booth</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">-You can participate in the 1 mile walk</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">-You can participate in the 5 mile walk</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">-You can be a virtual walker</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">-You can sponsor a walker who is registered with us</span><br /><br />Register at: <a href="http://www.mypetwalk.org/">www.mypetwalk.org</a><br /><br />Look under Get Involved and click on Team Search, we are registered under Blistered Whiskers Inc. You add your name and email address and set a goal for yourself. There are flyers you can print off the site or you can get some at the shelter. The registration is free if you are under 18 years old, for those over the age of 18 there is a $25.00 registration fee. You can also track how much each rescue group has raised to date for their cause on this website.<br /><br />This will be a really fun day and the largest animal related event in Arizona. Last year there were 8,000 walkers and 10,000 pets there with a total raised of $350,000 for homeless pets!<br /><br />To look at pictures from last years event click here:<br /><a href="http://www.petsmartcharities.org/petwalk/photogallery.php">http://www.petsmartcharities.org/petwalk/photogallery.php</a><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://www.mypetwalk.org/"><img src="http://support.petsmartcharities.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11002.gif" alt="2nd Annual PetSmart Charities PetWalk - Register Today" border="0" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6768039549043081801.post-18080154562413070122009-12-04T05:39:00.000-08:002009-12-04T05:53:43.456-08:00Holiday Safety Tips<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/animals/detail?AnimalID=1631278"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDiM8bmMhEHhjqplz7PiT5YgEF4K19sGX3dU8TNP3PyGjPsOjeYkZZWae28lWIbQvTD6Tt0QjCQpe_dpR8zRcRNCiJd5zg91wOuLSMqb1gbdD5yWSYlzH5flO5xmQ4cIverYr57L9m6Q-/s320/Nike.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411378272839587970" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Click <a href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/animals/browse">HERE</a> for more information on how to<br />adopt Nike and his friends at <a href="http://www.blisteredwhiskers.org/">Blistered Whiskers</a>.<br /><br /></div>With the holidays approaching, it is important to take precautions in order to keep our pets safe. Follow these helpful tips from <a href="http://www.aspca.org/">ASPCA</a>: <p style="font-style: italic;">Holly, Jolly and Oh-So-Safe! Of course you want to include your furry companions in the festivities, pet parents, but as you celebrate this holiday season, try to keep your pet’s eating and exercise habits as close to their normal routine as possible. And be sure to steer them clear of the following unhealthy treats, toxic plants and dangerous decorations:</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><strong>O Christmas Tree</strong><br />Securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn’t tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water—which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset—from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he imbibe.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><strong>Tinsel-less Town</strong><br />Kitties love this sparkly, light-catching “toy” that’s easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery. It’s best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><strong>No Feasting for the Furries</strong><br />By now you know not to feed your pets <a href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/ask-the-expert/ask-the-expert-poison-control/chocolate.html">chocolate</a> and anything sweetened with <a href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/ask-the-expert/ask-the-expert-poison-control/sweeteners.html">xylitol</a>, but do you know the lengths to which an enterprising fur kid will go to chomp on something yummy? Make sure to keep your pets away from the table and unattended plates of food, and be sure to secure the lids on garbage cans.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><strong>Toy Joy</strong><br />Looking to stuff your pet’s stockings? Choose gifts that are safe.<br /></p> <ul style="font-style: italic;"><li>Dogs have been known to tear their toys apart and swallowing the pieces, which can then become lodged in the esophagus, stomach or intestines. Stick with chew toys that are basically indestructible, Kongs that can be stuffed with healthy foods or chew treats that are designed to be safely digestible.<br /></li><li>Long, stringy things are a feline’s dream, but the most risky toys for cats involve ribbon, yarn and loose little parts that can get stuck in the intestines, often necessitating surgery. Surprise kitty with a new ball that’s too big to swallow, a stuffed catnip toy or the interactive cat dancer—and tons of play sessions together.</li></ul> <p style="font-style: italic;"><strong>Forget the Mistletoe & Holly</strong><br /><a href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/holly.html">Holly</a>, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. <a href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/mistletoe-american.html">Mistletoe</a> can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. And many <a href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/lily.html">varieties of lilies</a>, can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or choose a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.aspca.flowerclub.com/feature.asp?promotion=ASY97HP&srccode=AS_MDHMPGPLMT">pet-safe bouquet</a>.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><strong>Leave the Leftovers </strong><br />Fatty, spicy and <a href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/people-foods.html">no-no human foods</a>, as well as bones, should not be fed to your furry friends. Pets can join the festivities in other fun ways that won’t lead to costly medical bills.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><strong>That Holiday Glow</strong><br />Don’t leave lighted candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock candles over. Be sure to use appropriate candle holders, placed on a stable surface. And if you leave the room, put the candle out!</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><strong>Wired Up<br /></strong>Keep wires, batteries and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws’ reach. A wire can deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock and a punctured battery can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus, while shards of breakable ornaments can damage your pet’s mouth.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><strong>House Rules</strong><br />If your animal-loving guests would like to give your pets a little extra attention and exercise while you’re busy tending to the party, ask them to feel free to start a nice play or petting session.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><strong>Put the Meds Away </strong><br />Make sure all of your <a href="http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/top-10-human-medications-that-poison-our-pets.html">medications</a> are locked behind secure doors, and be sure to tell your guests to keep their meds zipped up and packed away, too.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><strong>Careful with Cocktails</strong><br />If your celebration includes adult holiday beverages, be sure to place your unattended alcoholic drinks where pets cannot get to them. If ingested, your pet could become weak, ill and may even go into a coma, possibly resulting in death from respiratory failure.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><strong>A Room of Their Own </strong><br />Give your pet his own quiet space to retreat to—complete with fresh water and a place to snuggle. Shy pups and cats might want to hide out under a piece of furniture, in their carrying case or in a separate room away from the hubbub.</p> <strong style="font-style: italic;">New Year’s Noise</strong> <span style="font-style: italic;">As you count down to the new year, please keep in mind that strings of thrown confetti can get lodged in a cat’s intestines, if ingested, perhaps necessitating surgery. Noisy poppers can terrify pets and cause possible damage to sensitive ears.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0