Feline Friends

V – VICTOR

April 26, 2016 | 12 Comments

BLOGGING FROM A TO Z

About Victor

Hi my name is Victor! I am six months old and ready to go to my forever home. I am litter trained, up to date on my shots, neutered and tested negative for FeLV-FIV. My adoption fee is $100 but please ask if we currently have any Adoption Specials ! For more information please call 810-987-4357 Tuesday through Friday 9:30-4:30 or Saturday 9:30-3. Sorry, no out of state adoptions for kittens.

Cat • Tabby – Grey • Young • Male • Small

Blue Water Area Humane Society Clyde, MI

Victor is such a cutie pie and he’s waiting for someone to lavish him with affection.

Could that be you?

NINE MINUS ONE LIFE, AND COUNTING HIS BLESSINGS

January 13, 2016 | 47 Comments

MENINGIOMA

This is the tale of Patch, an outdoor cat, who would happily spend his days touring the garden, patrolling for mice. One day, while, on tour, Patch was bitten on his tail – perhaps by another cat. The bite resulted in an abscess for which Patch received medical care. Life continued much as normal although he seemed to slow down and was behaving older than his twelve years. Patch seemed to prefer spending his time relaxing in sunny spots around the house rather than roaming the great outdoors. Once bitten, twice shy perhaps.

And, who would blame him?

It turned out this state of lethargy (mental state and change in behaviour) was, in fact, an early sign of illness. Patch’s people had no clue about the meningioma (a benign tumor of the meninges) rapidly enveloping the cat’s brain, and affecting his central nervous system.

Symptoms vary and may include:

Visual deficits or complete loss of vision
Confusion or agitation
Abnormal behavior or mental state
Uncoordinated movements
Neck or back pain
Seizures

His people believed this seeming disinterest and boredom was simply ‘old age.’

Then began an obvious decline in health. Patch became wobbly and weak and “absent-minded.” He fell over a few times; he would start circling and then fall over. It seemed he was unable to get up from the floor even when assisted by his people. He would just fall over.

Regarding the “absent-minded” issue, Patch’s people explain:

He would try to come through doors on the wrong side, thus boxing himself in. The most heart-breaking thing was one morning when we came down. He had gone out through the cat flap during the night. When we opened the door he was sitting out in the pouring rain – he was soaked to the skin. He had forgotten his little night shelter where he would have been warm and dry. He was sitting beside it!

Patch had also been pressing his head into walls. This odd behavior is a sign too few people have learned to recognize as a red flag! Please click to read this excellent resource about ‘Head Pressing.’

Believing the infection (from the bite) had perhaps affected his brain, Patch returned to his vet. An x-ray revealed a white area presumed to be a tumor. Langford Veterinary Services in Bristol was contacted, and Patch was rushed to the clinic that day. Surgery was scheduled with a Senior Clinical Training Scholar in Feline Medicine.

A thorough health history was reviewed including the onset and nature of symptoms followed by a complete physical exam, biochemistry profile, urinalysis, and complete blood work. Further analysis included a sample of cerebrospinal fluid, (the protective and nourishing fluid circulating the brain and spinal cord).

During this examination process, it was determined that Patch had lost the sight in his right eye.

Tissue biopsies are frequently used to diagnose meningioma, however, computerized Imaging and scans are the most valuable resource for identifying lesions and their localization.

Patch was the first cat his (local) vet has known to have the surgery. Believed to be, for the most part due to cost.

The situation was daunting for Patch’s people. Add to that the stress of driving nearly four hours, round-trip and to be separated from their companion during the three our procedure and his recovery period. It was agreed that Patch would do better without having them come and go while he was healing as it might confuse him. He might think he was going home.

Imagine having to make the incredibly difficult decision to proceed with surgery or end your companion’s life. For some people, surgery or saying goodbye are the only two (humane) options.

Patch’s people were beyond relieved to have Pet Health Insurance, and there was no question regarding the surgery. They did not have to make that choice.

It didn’t occur to us not to proceed with the surgery. We only realized later how truly grateful we are that we did not have to make that heartbreaking decision

Sadly, most people would have to say goodbye to their companions. The cost of Patch’s surgery plus care and after-treatment was £5,700!!!

I do not regret paying each month for insurance. It is something you hope never to use, and I hope no one else has to. The peace of mind alone is worth it

Surgery is not a guarantee, and the DVM suggested there was a 20% chance Patch would not survive the procedure. For treatment to be considered a complete success, surgical removal of the entire tumor is required, but not always possible. Tumors are not always accessible for surgical removal, and incomplete removal occurs due to the invasiveness of the tumor. Radiation therapy may be recommended in these cases.

Without surgery, however, it was estimated Patch might have two weeks to live. In his current state, his people realized it was no way to live.

The prognosis with successful surgery is virtually complete recovery with at least another two years, but could go on longer. The hospital says Patch will probably die of something else eventually – hopefully old age

The surgery was a success, and Patch was a model patient, even eating a short time after the procedure. He made a quick recovery, with no setbacks.

An update from his people:

We need to buy Patch some toys as he is so playful and full of fun! It is a joy to have the original Patch back. His coat has grown, he’s sleek and glossy, he’s chatting and loving and very obviously well, happy and loving life.

Well done Patch xx

Resources:

Langford Veterinary Services

Meningioma in cats

Meninges

Head Pressing

THE CRAZY PLATE LADY – PLATING & PRESENTATION

April 1, 2015 | Leave a Comment

INTRODUCING A COLLECTION OF GARNISHED DISHES BY JACQUELINE POIRIER

Ricky – a BEAUTIFUL work of art by Jacqueline Poirier

For me, Easter has been a time to gather with family, or at least connect with family via Facetime, Skype, or a good old-fashioned phone call. I love everything about the time of year in which this holiday is celebrated. Springtime means the colour of daffodils, tulips and hyacinths as well as grass (finally, after months of cold and snow)! Easter egg hunts and too much chocolate, hot cross buns and other baked delights are enjoyed over the weekend. And how we present these delights to our guests during holidays can be just as fun!

I met Jacqueline Poirier at The One Of A Kind Show, in Toronto, Ontario and marveled at the uniqueness of her creations. CHARGER PLATES are Jacqueline’s canvas of choice on which she displays her beautiful, works of art. A heaped serving of personality on each plate!

Ontario born and raised Jacqueline is the Resident Artist for The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto and infuses flare to the dining room of restaurant TOCA with her colourful designs.

Thank you so much, Jacqueline for creating this beautiful plate of Ricky, The Rooster, as one of your BEAUTIFUL works of art. Thank you also for sharing the following information with us:

What inspires you?
I am inspired by anything and everything! Each day brings new excitement and challenges, so I try my best to “go with the flow” and paint what I am feeling in that moment. I am also very inspired by many of my clients stories and celebrations. Each custom order that I complete has a unique story or circumstance in which the plate is being created for. This is extremely motivating and inspiring for me as an artist. I am so happy to be a part of creating something special for my clients.

Do you have a favourite subject(s)? If so, what is it about that subject that speaks to you?
I really love to paint people’s pets! I am a big-time animal lover, so I love to learn the names and ages of my furry painting subjects. I also really love to challenge myself and paint “food related” items on plates. It is fun, and whimsical, and often a conversation starter, as my intention is always to achieve photo realism when painting those items.

What is your preferred medium, why?
I absolutely love painting on plates! Until about 3 years ago, I had never experimented with painting on ceramics. I still enjoy painting on canvas and wood, although I have received the most amount of recognition around my plate art (Plart) and really enjoy the endless possibilities that await me!

Where is your favourite place to paint?
I love to paint in my studio downtown Toronto. There is beautiful high ceilings and lots of room to spread out and be creative! The natural light and surround sound speakers make for lots of fun and energizing music to keep me painting throughout the day. Sometimes I enjoy painting late night in my apartment, but this is only because my dog Jerry is asleep and not running around distracting me

Artists connect with the pieces they create. Please share with us the work(s) that are most meaningful to you (evokes positive or negative emotions) and why.
I really love to paint plates that are gifts to others – memorial portraits, pet portraits, landscapes of places traveled to, homes, cottages, favourite foods, or company logos. I am always amazed at the thoughtfulness that people go to when helping to create a memorable gift such as a custom plate. Each plate I create is extremely memorable to me, and I am sure to spend the most amount of time and effort to achieve my clients request. I treat every occasion as a special opportunity to gain trust and a lasting relationship with my clients. I feel very humbled to be in a position where I am part of creating a lasting memory for many people.

Is there anything (else) you would like people to know about Jacqueline Poirier?
I am the crazyplatelady!!!

Artist’s favourite colour?
Green. Although I sign all of my art work in red 🙂

To learn more about Jacqueline and to order you own custom plate, visit:

http://www.jacquelinepoirier.com/

TOCA
http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Toronto/Dining/TOCA

#SPONSORED

Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received the beautiful plate of Ricky, from Jacqueline for posting about her beautiful and unique works of art. The feedback and opinions shared in this post are ours, in our words. We did not receive monetary compensation for this review, and it is our choice to share this product/service information.

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‘TIS THE SEASON

December 21, 2014 | Leave a Comment

HOLIDAY STYLE FEATURING APPAREL FROM KIPEKEE COUTURE

OR,

We’re decked out, ready for any occasion. Thank you Kipekee Couture.

Describing themselves as “true-to-the-core animal lovers,” Kipekee Couture says:

Each of our pets has a unique personality, a style of their own. It is because of their individuality that we created Kipekee. Made entirely of unusual, unique and stylish recycled fabrics, each of Kipekee’s exquisite lines is carefully handcrafted with impeccable attention to detail.

This bandana was a great choice for Ricky, and he LOVES wearing it. A collar might not show beneath his mane!

Henry looks so handsome in this ‘dressed up denim’ collar.

Pretty in Pink! Reese was more than happy to pose for photos in her beautiful floral print collar. In fact, she did not want me to take it off at bedtime (sweet dreams of sugar plum fairies).

Visit their website to see all the stunning designs available http://kipekee.ca/

Henry, Reese and Ricky love this holiday theme!

Thanks also to Georgina Garden Centre for allowing us to share their gorgeous festive displays and gift items.

http://www.ggconline.ca/

WHERE DO I BEGIN – HENRY’S BOOK FOR CHILDREN?

November 1, 2014 | Leave a Comment

Where do I begin?
To tell the story of how great a love can be
The sweet love story that is older than the sea
The simple truth about the love he brings to me
Where do I start?

Henry and his sister Reese are both ‘Puppy Mill Rescues.’ For anyone not familiar with Puppy Mills, the are large breeding facilities for the manufacturing of puppies to sell for profit. Most Mills do not provide adequate care for their dogs: hence the fight to have these inhumane farms shutdown.

Henry was surrendered by a Miller at an early age due to a medical condition. The Miller did not want to have to pay medical expenses for Henry’s treatment. Shortly after we adopted Henry a female puppy was also surrendered. Sadly, it was too late for her eye infection to be treated, and her eye was removed – situations like this are not uncommon with Puppy Mill dogs.

At the time of ‘Happy-Go-Lucky’ Henry’s adoption, Miss Reese was spending her days at a Mill in a suspended wire cage with a ‘drop-pan’ below to catch her business. She was being used for the sole purpose of breeding: her puppies taken from her most likely at too young an age, and sold. When Reese stopped producing (puppies and therefore money), she too was surrendered. Unlike Henry, Reese was a shell of a dog – we knew she was in there somewhere: it took us more than two years to find the real Reese. She has come such a long way since we adopted her, however; she’s still very nervous around new people and dogs other than Henry. Reese is what is referred to as a ‘Yellow Ribbon Dog’ as she needs extra space.

Wherever we would go with Henry and Reese on our walks, kids would run over to meet the dogs. Some would ask: most would not! Kids are very energetic, and I found myself explaining over, and again how Henry and Reese would prefer to be greeted in a calm manner. I decided I needed to write this book. I truly hope it catches on and that children will share this lesson with their friends and so on, and so forth.

When my husband and I adopted Henry, I had no idea how much Henry would come to mean to me and how he would change my life – and me; for the better. He inspires me and brightens my every day. Now Henry is a ‘storybook’ character. Clever, charming, oh-so funny and very friendly; Henry is the perfect guide for children throughout the story.

Finding the right words was not an easy task. Creating the images was even more challenging.

In the next few posts, I would like to share with you some insights into the creation of this story and it’s illustrations.

Bookshelf
This illustration was a way for me to include our beloved Charlie, Maggie and Oliver: family felines that are no longer with us.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/(Where_Do_I_Begin%3F)_Love_Story

VIVIAN’S ART

June 18, 2014 | 2 Comments

I fist had the pleasure of meeting Vivian through blogging. I love that on her blog, Viv shows us how she creates her beautiful works of art – more than a glimpse into the process. Below, I have put together a gallery of some of her pieces. Thank you Vivian for sharing.

What inspires you?

Inspiration for me can come in any form. I mostly paint animals and particularly like trying to capture a moment in time or a certain expression the animal may have. For me the challenge is to try to capture a bit of the subject’s personality in paint.

Do you have a favourite subject(s)? If so, what is it about that subject that speaks to you?

My favorite subject is animals. More specifically dogs and cats. The unique relationships between a dog or a cat and their human companions always intrigues me. These two species have been domesticated in a way that no other animal has. It really amazes me just how closely humans can work with dogs in so many areas of life and work and how much companionship a cat can bestow on people of any age.

What is your preferred medium, why?

I work in watercolor, pastel and acrylic. Watercolor is really my favorite medium. It has taken me years to learn how to manipulate the paint to get the results I like but the time and effort has been worth it. I love the translucent quality of the paint and the way the white of paper making it seem to glow. This glowing quality is very beautiful when doing an animal’s eyes where most of the emotion and personality is expressed.

Where is your favourite place to paint?

Recently I converted my formal dining room into a studio. I have a large eat in type kitchen for entertaining so the formal dining room was never used. I love painting here because I have a huge double window that overlooks my backyard. I have a small pond I can see from my window as well as all the birds, squirrels and chipmunks that visit my bird feeders. I have painted some of the birds that frequented my feeders. Our winter was particularly cold this year and one of the squirrels would actually come to my window and look for me when the feeder was empty! I am I am going to paint him next!

Is there anything (else) you would like people to know about Vivian?

For me painting is all about emotional connections. Connecting to your subject, your client and the viewer. I enjoy creating something special for my clients that will last a lifetime. There is nothing that makes me happier than to succeed in making these connections and pleasing the people that enjoy my work. The biggest thrill is when I know I have done my job well and perhaps made a friend along the way.

Artist’s favourite colour?

RED. I love red. Oddly enough I rarely use red in my paintings. It is such a strong and vibrant color a little goes a long way.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/ViviansART?ref=si_shop

http://viviansart.typepad.com/my-blog/2014/04/dogwood-demo.html

A NEW YEAR STATE OF MIND

February 13, 2014 | 2 Comments

In memory of Mena

It has definitely taken me longer to transition into 2014, than it has any of the (many) previous years. A great deal of ideas, projects and happenings in 2013 all seemed to bottle neck towards the end.

That said, I’m not one to execute my list of resolutions at the stroke of midnight. I don’t want to set myself up to fail, and be disappointed. This Ontario girl has done a few polar dips. Enough to have learned that I’m a ‘dip the big toe first’ kind of person (and in much warmer weather, thank you).

I used to look forward to going out to celebrate the New Year. I would dress up and go out with friends, ‘tying one on’ for the last time that year. I would, of course partake of champagne at midnight vowing however to ‘go dry, eat healthy and workout ‘starting tomorrow’. Within the first week of the new year I would update my resume, find my dream job and start out ‘gung ho’ to lose X amount of pounds before shorts season. This would be the year. Then, inevitably, there were distractions and all good intentions dissolved.

Mena in Times Square

Nowadays, my priorities and the time in which it takes to accomplish a task, has changed. I still have hopes and dreams, however I am more realistic and choose a more general approach to achieving them; I will continue to make healthy choices – I would like to try to incorporate more ‘raw’ dishes into my diet each week, I will add an extra weight training day to my workout schedule (somewhere in the week), and I will make more time for my hobbies – balance between work and personal life if balanced, is often precarious. It is important to consider what is done with that time and the quality of time; do I feel I’ve done something because it ‘had to be done’, and do I feel better after it is done? Sometimes it’s best to focus on something else entirely; read, go for a walk or play fetch with the dogs for an hour. Resolutions or daily tasks – I don’t want to just cross things off a list, I want them to matter. What I do, I do with ‘intention’.

On September 11^th, 2001, the world watched in absolute horror and disbelief when two planes, filled with passengers struck one each of the two World Trade Centre towers. Most of us remember exactly where we were – standing helpless as both planes disappeared into the buildings which collapsed to the ground. In the days, weeks, and months to follow, we watched a nation pick itself up, support its fellow citizens and share miraculous tales of hope and survival, amid heartache. Movies such as ‘Reign Over Me’ (Adam Sandler, 2007), ‘Not Since You’ (2009), and of course ‘Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close’ (Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock, 2011) to name only a few, have referred to this event; the experience having life altering effects on at least one of the characters – who, ultimately go through a spiritual awakening and in the process, learn a valuable lesson.

My point is this; why does it take such tragedy to create perspective? Perhaps the families who lost friends and loved ones to tragic circumstances will find a small amount of comfort, in knowing that we have not forgotten, and although there is evil in this world, we are reminded there is also much good. The events of that day, and countless other seemingly pointless tragedies stay with me. I try not to take for granted the opportunity I have to make a difference; somewhere, somehow regardless of the degree. ‘A little at a time, however possible’.

In 2014, I learned of Christine B. and her blog projectlighttolife.com. I was inspired by Christina and her many acts of kindness – ideas that, at the very least make people smile. I haven’t created my bucket list yet. I decided to start with a ‘sand pail’.

‘A single grain of sand is barely visible to the human eye – buckets full will build castles’.

A work of art by sand sculptor Matt Long

Sand Pail List

Donate time, supplies and/or financial support to a local shelter(s):

-Think of fun ways to ‘fundraise’; bake cupcakes or cookies to sell at the office, knit toys and blankets, sew blankets and jackets. Are you, or do you know anyone who is a consultant for Scentsy, Pampered Chef, Lia Sophia, Stella & Dot etc.? If not perhaps you could host a party and raise some money for much needed items. Most shelters and rescue organizations will have a wish list posted on their site.

–Cat cuddling; some shelters are full of residents, and the attendants don’t have the extra time for more than a quick pat on the head or stroke under the chin. Cat cuddlers provide socialization, stimulation and much needed love required. Why not go the extra mile and offer to brush some coats and trim nails. Some cats are lucky to have play areas with scratch posts – most are not.

–Dog walking; This could mean the difference between a dog being adopted or overlooked due to having ‘too much energy’ for a family. Often, it’s very hard during meet and greets for families to properly determine if a dog will be a good fit because they have not had as much exercise as a dog their size requires. That extra half an hour you can spare could make such a difference. It also helps socialize the dogs.

–Taking photos; again due to time restrictions, the photos you see on such search engines are often ‘quick snaps’ taken by shelter staff, in an effort to put a tail to a name. If you have a camera, and are able to spend some time with the animals, you can help them relax and take a photo capturing their true beauty.

–Sponsorship; a number of rescue organizations are raising funds to cover medical bills for animals in their care, or simply to pay for food and basic costs of living.

–Transport; organizations such as Pilots N Paws (Canada and U.S.) organize the transport of animals in order to keep them safe and find permanent homes for them. As well as individuals qualified to fly aircraft, ground transport is also required. Even offering to take an animal from a local shelter to a veterinarian appointment would be helpful.

–Foster; unfortunately not all shelters are ‘no kill’, and offering to care for an animal until a permanent loving home can be found, may be the difference between life and death for that animal or another. It’s not always easy to see them go, but in my opinion, it’s much easier than considering the alternative.

–Support a Cause; unless you are part of the rescue community, there are MANY issues and concerns that are not generally discussed, and most people are completely unaware of. For example; the laws and restrictions regarding Pitbulls and other breeds in different Provinces and States, Puppy Mills and sales of pets in pet stores, Over-population – in part due to ignorance about the importance of ‘spay/neuter,’ different organizations that are desperately trying to number inline, and how they hope to do so. Embrace the opportunity to learn something that will benefit the community and share the information. Some things are difficult to hear but again if you don’t know you can’t help. Then….

–Talk it up; Share the information you learned with others. SHARE THIS POST! Also, keep an eye out for ads posted online or posters regarding lost pets or others looking for a new home. Recommend visiting a shelter or rescue organization. You would be surprised at how love connections are made.

Someone read somewhere that this dog needed a home and then heard from someone that ‘so and so’ was ready to adopt a new dog…….

–Be Vigilant/Take Responsibility; Please don’t ignore a situation if you have a feeling something isn’t right. Any cruelty and neglect isn’t always obvious. Do we not have a moral obligation to report it? Control Officers would rather check something out and find it to be nothing rather than arrive too late to a situation. Do you have a neighbor that seems to always be giving away free kittens, or selling litter after litter of puppies? Be aware of stray cats and contact your local shelter for information about Feral Support. Unaltered pets contributing to over-population is a huge concern leading to the large number of shelter animals being euthanized because homes can’t be found for them. What about a dog that appears to be injured and/or covered in cuts. Please don’t look away. Make a difference.

the sculptures were carved for the Tunnel To Towers Run held each year at ground zero. The event memorializes NYFD Firefighter Stephen Siller.

Building sand castles is more fun when working together with friends; on a sunny day at the beach, the sound of waves and seagulls (they can be a good thing), laughing and working together to create something magical. Who will join me in this challenge? I have chosen ideas based on ‘Animal Welfare’. Feel free to grab a spade and scoop some goodness into this pail (cross one or two items off the list if you aren’t up to the entire challenge), or start your own for any other cause. I’d love to hear about your experiences or ideas to add to the list.

New Year’s resolve, to me is about evolution; strengthening values, learning and developing. I contemplate what has transpired in the previous years. I take time to consider what I would like to accomplish over the course of the next few. What can I do this year that will somehow make a difference? When I’m ready, I take the first step – with a new-year state of mind.

Best wishes for the New Year!

Thank you Matt Long for permission to use images:

www.sandsculptor.com/index.html

www.tunneltotowers.org

Lara Elmayan @ untapped cities photographed the lower manhattan sandcastle:

http://untappedcities.com/2013/07/19/daily-what-18-foot-sand-castle-built-on-water-street-in-downtown-manhattan/

and last but not least thank you Heather for sharing your photo of Willamena:

http://heather-kovar.blogspot.ca/search?updated-min=2006-01-01T00:00:00-05:00&updated-max=2007-01-01T00:00:00-05:00&max-results=27