I’m sure someone will be interested in this news, but this post is primarily a big Thank You Note to all the people who have helped us.
First of all, our thanks to the five generous households who took in all six kittens. No kitten had to go to a lonely home–either they had the company of a sibling or went to a family seeking a companion for the cat already living with them. That is very gratifying to know.
Then we want to thank Br. Rick’s sister, Maureen Neisess, who paid for the neutering of the Mother Cat, her inoculations and pet carrier. Nothing would have been possible without her help. Br. Rick himself, with all his experience with animals, was invaluable in even getting started with the needs of a pregnant cat, socializing her litter, framing a strategy and on-going practical advice. And he drove Mother Cat to the Vet, both for a consultation and the surgery.
That brings us to Dr. Carol Maben and her assistant, Veterinary Technician Tangela Phillips at Pet Neuter (petneuter.org) in Stephens City. Their website is very clear and user-friendly. Br. Rick, who has dealt with any veterinarians, was very impressed by both Dr. Maben and Ms. Phillips, their knowledge, their way with animals and their concern. One detail that really struck him was how calm and well adjusted the pets at the hospital were–you can’t fake that.
The Cat and her humans were well prepared for the operation by the folks at Pet Neuter and she returned home happy and in good health and is enjoying a good recovery. Our Thanks to Katie Conaway who drove the Cat back home while we were celebrating Vespers.
The Cat is observing ten days of “rest” (a relative term for an active, young cat) indoors and is eager to return to her rambles outdoors, but she’s very co-operative. If you’ve ever heard the caveat that female cats are less affectionate after being spayed, don’t believe it! Certainly this Cat is as sweet natured and affectionate as ever. Neutering is really the only responsible route to go with so many homeless cats, who are having a negative impact on the environment. Many urban strays have a miserable paw-to-mouth struggle of a life and are subject to disease and random cruelty. If you live in this area and have a cat, keep Pet Neuter in mind.
Because Pet Neuter performs it service with minimal cost, even if you don’t need their services but are interested in their work, please consider a donation to their on-going expenses.