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Thank you Karen Chapman for stepping up to take on the Adopt-A-Pet for June 3.
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Good News Highlights
Tabitha – a momma living in a feral colony who appeared after her kittens were born with a horribly, broken leg.
She would not be enticed into a trap until her kittens were weaned. Thanks to the diligence of her caregivers, Judy and Missy, Tabitha is now living large in Judy’s office.
She is now enjoying ample buffets, safety, and affection as she adjusts to having three legs. (Her leg was badly infected and Dr. Landers felt amputation would provide the best
quality of life for her.) Tabitha’s kittens are also in the foster program now and will be ready for adoption soon. We reached out to our supporters with a virtual message to help
cover the cost of Tabitha’s veterinary care and within three days, we received approximately $600!
Blue Bell – a kitten born in a feral colony located in a horse stable. The colony was quite large with many pregnant females and loads of kittens.
Many of the adults have been sterilized (trapping is on-going). Gabby Carson took on most of the kittens from the colony…Blue Bell was the first adopted and her
follow-up was wonderful. She has a fantastic new home! Thanks to all of you who made this possible.
Helen (aka Hanna Nonni) and Miss Kitty (aka Poppi) – many of you have met the ‘blind’ litter born on the UTA
campus last year. I am happy to tell you that 4 of the 5
siblings have been adopted. Helen’s story prompted Miss Kitty’s
adoption, too. Helen’s new adopter has always had terrible allergies and Helen’s fur doesn’t bother her at all. As a result, the adopter’s mom (who has the same allergy problem), just adopted Miss
Kitty for that very reason. It’s always amazing how things work out, isn’t it? P.S. Sweet Festus is still awaiting his permanent home.
As you all know, it’s ‘Kitten Season’ – requests for help are through the roof! We simply can’t help everyone that calls which is why focusing on the positive things that Feral Friends
has accomplished is so important. By keeping the good in the front of our minds, we have the strength to continue our work. Our efforts do make a difference and, some day, the numbers of
homeless animals will be manageable. It is possible! Good job, everyone!
On a sadder note, please take a moment to remember two of our
fosters that died recently, Shelby and Tommie T. They will be
missed.
Here is a note I received from one of our volunteers, Karen, about the grieving process:
When I picked up Mitzi from Toothacres, they included a booklet on the grieving process. Even though I have several of these, I actually took the time to read one this time.
This little booklet included a reference to the International Star Registry to have a star named in memory of our pets. The website is www.starregistry.com phone #1-800-282-3333.
The cost seems fairly reasonable. I just wanted to pass this information on since we all search for a way for these wee fur kids to be remembered.
Karen
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Many thanks to all who participated in Oscar Night, which was held Friday, May 26th. This event raised almost $2,800!
This money will more feral and stray cats in our community to be spayed and neutered, which will lead to safer, happier existences for them.
We appreciate everyone's support!
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Maya
"I just wanted to share a success story with you.
Maya is my 6 year old black, short domestic hair beauty. We adopted
her from a Feral Friends adoption day at Petsmart, Mesquite in 2000.
She is still with us, still healthy, and happy. We couldn't have
added a better family member to our family. My husband is in the
military so we have moved several times. Each time Maya has adapted
quickly. I want to thank you for what you do. Without you, we may
have never crossed paths with this wonderful creature."
Yours truly,
Allison Cockrill |
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Name |
Foster |
 |
Alec |
Melissa Barrios |
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Baby 1 |
Alicia Meeks |
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Blue Bell |
Gaby Carson |
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Domino |
Janeice Craig |
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Doodle Bug |
Rhonda Cox |
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Hot Dog |
Rhonda Cox |
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Jersey |
Christine Kallas |
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Kalea |
Janeice Craig |
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Kitten #1 |
Theresa Webster |
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Lacy |
Janeice Craig |
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Lara |
Janeice Craig |
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Little Adventure |
Elise Bissell |
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Miss Kitty #1 |
Susan Kilgore |
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Miss Kitty #2 |
Stephani Ding |
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Nala |
Theresa Webster |
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Patches |
Lyn Hurbanis |
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Prince Charming |
Elise Bissell |
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Ranger |
Janeice Craig |
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Rogue |
Pamela Asturias |
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Slim |
Rhonda Cox |
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Sparky |
Elise Bissell |
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Spunky |
Rhonda Cox |
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Sushi |
Elise Bissell |
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Sylvester |
Theresa Webster |
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Tigger |
Clea Verven |
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Total ferals since inception – 4,620
Total kitten births prevented – 7,238,543
Total ferals May 2005-2006 – 1,208
Total ferals since Jan. 1, 2006 - 538 |
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| Successful recoveries in 2005: 22 |
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Thyroid Disorders in Cats and Dogs
 The thyroid gland produces hormones that affect the body’s metabolism, growth and development. The two most important hormones are tetraiodothyronine (thyroxine or T4)
and triiodothyronine (T3). There are two conditions caused by a dysfunctional thyroid gland–hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is more common in cats and
is caused by an overactive thyroid gland with the resulting overproduction of hormones. Hypothyroidism, which is more common in dogs, is caused by an under active thyroid gland
that is not producing enough hormones resulting in decreased metabolism.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is diagnosed so often in cats that it has practically become an epidemic. It is rarely seen in dogs. It is more common in older cats, but may be seen in younger cats as well.
Hyperthyroidism seems to be more common among cats that have been fed sub-standard nutrition and food containing artificial preservatives. Some holistic veterinarians feel they have seen an increase in
hyperthyroidism that corresponds to the increased vaccination rate for feline leukemia. Viral and bacterial infections can also play a roll, as well as environmental toxins.
Prevention of hypothyroidism is the best approach through proper diet and daily supplements, avoiding unnecessary vaccines, and minimizing exposure to chemical or environmental hazards including
cleaning products, X rays, antibiotics and food preservatives.
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:
Excessive thirst (in 10% of hyperthyroid cats)
Excessive urination
Increased appetite
Weight loss (despite increased appetite)
Hyperactivity
Irritability or Aggression
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Voluminous fatty feces
Panting; Heat intolerance
Skin lesions, dry, greasy, matted coat
Read the entire article
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