Summer 2012 - Purrfect Pals

The Purrfect Pals
PURR
The Purr fect Pals “Purr ”
The 15th Annual Black Cat Ball Benefit Auction
This year’s benefit auction will take place on
October 27 at the Meydenbauer Center in
Bellevue. Donations of auctionable items are
welcome, and consider asking your employer
to be a sponsor. For more information, email
[email protected].
Join Purrfect Pals on Facebook!
We love sharing photos of special kitties,
updates on our events, and more on our
Facebook page. You can also post photos
of your kitties! Come visit us at www.
facebook.com/PurrfectPals.
Please Don’t Litter…Fix Your Critter!
Did you know that Purrfect Pals offers
free cat spay and neuter surgeries every
week in our shelter’s clinic? Donations are
encouraged but not required. To schedule
an appointment for your kitty, please
call us at 360-652-9611 or email cats@
purrfectpals.org.
Help our Cats Reach New Heights!
One of our goals this year at Purrfect Pals
is to better utilize vertical space in our
sanctuary rooms in order to provide more
enrichment for our long-term residents.
We are hoping to add several Kuranda cat
towers for our kitties since they are durable
and easy to clean. If you would like to order
a cat tower and have it shipped directly
to our shelter, please visit http://kuranda.
com/donate/6890.
Donate Your Vehicle and Help Homeless Cats!
Instead of trading in your old car when
you buy new, consider making it a tax
deductible donation to Purrfect Pals to
help care for the cats. Our partnership
with Donate for Charity, a nationally
known vehicle donation company, makes
it nearly effortless for you. A call to Donate
for Charity is toll-free at 1-866-392-4483
or go to the Purrfect Pals website at www.
purrfectpals.org, go to "Help" and then click
on "Donate Your Vehicle". A special thanks
to all of you who have already donated a
vehicle to Purrfect Pals!
•
because every cat matters
•
Summer 2012
Helping Black Cats Change Their Luck
From the beginning, Purrfect Pals has
used as its icon the black cat. There’s a reason
our annual fundraiser is the Black Cat Ball
and not the Tabby Cat Ball. The fact is, the
fate of far too many black cats is tragic, and
Purrfect Pals exists to help the neediest, to
find homes for the cats least likely to have
a chance otherwise. Sadly, because of color
alone, black cats qualify every bit as much
as do the seniors, the injured, and the FIV
positive.
Historically, black cats were associated
with witchcraft and evil. Because they can
pass unseen in the dark of the night, black cats
were considered to be desirable partners for
witches. The early belief that witches could
turn themselves into cats meant that their pets
were often burned to death at their owners’
sides in 17th century Europe. (Interestingly, it
was said that a witch could turn into a cat only
nine times; thus, this is the likely origin of the
belief that cats have nine lives.) Cats were
sacrificed in rituals that required a black cat
without a single white hair. Everyone knows
some of the superstitions surrounding black
cats. If one crosses your path, you’ll have bad
luck. If a black cat jumps onto the bed of a sick
person, that person will die. Black cats foretell
poverty. You’ve probably heard numerous
variations.
What fewer people know is that in
many cultures around the world, black cats
are considered lucky. Black cats were seen as
gods in ancient Egypt. In Scotland, a strange
black cat on your porch is a sign of upcoming
prosperity. The Celts thought black cats were
reincarnated beings able to divine the future.
In England, fishermen’s wives kept black cats
in their homes while their husbands went to
sea, believing the cats would bring the men
home safely. In many parts of the world, it is
believed that if a black cat crosses your path,
you will have
good luck. Of
course,
you
must politely
greet the cat,
or
perhaps
stroke
him
three times to
bring the good
luck.
Perhaps none
of this explains
the hard, cruel
fact that black
cats are the
least likely to
be
adopted
(continued on page 3)
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Meet the Staff:
Kat Dockstader, Manager of Volunteer and Offsite Programs
Izzabella, Bentley and Mercedes. Her dogs are
Roxy and Luna. They also share their home
with a Ball Python named Ookie and a 75 gallon
tank of fish.
Purrfect Pals is a cat-only adoption
organization and sanctuary, helping
more than 3,000 cats yearly through
adoptions and operating a large
sanctuary and low-cost spay/neuter
clinic.
Purrfect Pals
230 McRae Road NE
Arlington, WA 98223
Webpurrfectpals.org
[email protected]
Phone360-652-9611
Hours 11-4 Monday through
Saturday
Staff
Connie Gabelein. . . . . . . . . Executive Director
Stacy Morgan-Wolfe, DVM. . . . Veterinarian
Susan Bark. . . . . . . . . Foster Care Coordinator
Kathy McGee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Office Manager
Kat Dockstader . . . . . . Manager of Volunteer
and Offsite Programs
Debei Massingale. . . . . . . Intake Coordinator
Staff Positions
Krista Bark
Kevin Carreon
Merah Curnow
Austin Dvorak
Fran Ellison
Board of Directors
Kathy Centala
Janice Johnson
Larene Kuller
Jeanne Lind
Lorrie Lippert
Susan Pierce
Claire Wilkinson
Mike Young
Rachel Greenberg
Ruthie Gray
Nikki Plum
Misty Rasmussen
Alicia Stewart
Purrfect Pals is excited to introduce you to
Kat Dockstader, who recently joined our team
as Manager of Volunteer and Offsite Programs!
Kat has lived in Washington all her life and
loved roaming the beaches and mountains of our
great state. She grew up with three older sisters
and with cats always part of her life. She was
the one who brought home any animal in need
of "rescue" even if it was the poor pollywogs in
the puddles! Fortunately, her mother was very
supportive of her passion for animals. At the age
of fourteen, Kat was offered the opportunity to
work for a vet clinic on the weekends caring for
the cats and dogs in their care. Eventually she
was offered the chance to train as a Vet Assistant/
Tech and learned the ropes straight from her vet. She also started working with children in high
school and discovered a love of teaching. Kat’s life's journey so far includes working
as a Director and Teacher for Montessori schools,
teaching in kindergarten and early childhood
classrooms and managing volunteer and event
programs within other rescue organizations
and at the schools where she worked. She also
volunteered with the Girl Scouts supporting her
daughter’s troop, taught at camps and coached
soccer, all while fostering kittens, cats, dogs and
puppies. Kat has three two-legged kids who
are 23, 21 and 15 and a wonderful supportive
husband who indulges her love of animals and
working with people, and supports her efforts
in rescuing animals. Her family enjoys many
outdoor activities and always has a pet in tow!
Kat’s family also includes several four-legged
(and no-legged) kids as well. Her rescue kitties
include Jingles, Jangles, Ticker Bell, Peter Pan,
We asked Kat what it was about Purrfect
Pals that made her want to join our team and
she shared, “I was attracted to Purrfect Pals
because it is an organization with goals and a
mission that I can fully support. I was looking
for an opportunity to work with others who
share the same passion for helping the helpless
and finding opportunities to educate people.”
Kat was also drawn to the opportunity to
help Purrfect Pals overcome some challenges.
According to Kat, “Since we are spread over
fifty miles from location to location, the main
challenge I see is making sure that everyone
knows how important they are to everything
we do and feels connected as an important
part of the Purrfect Pals team no matter where
they volunteer or what it is they do. Every little
thing is so helpful and supports our mission.”
Kat hopes to build stronger volunteer and
offsite event programs through which we can
better support one another in our efforts to
save the lives of more cats and kittens. She is
already introducing new technology to make
our volunteer and offsite programs more
efficient and is implementing new training and
procedures which will ensure that we never lose
sight of the Purrfect Pals mission. Please help us welcome Kat to the Purrfect
Pals team! If you have questions regarding
our volunteer and offsite event programs, you
can reach Kat at 360-652-9611 ext 16 or katd@
purrfectpals.org.
2012 Shelter
Adoption Stats
January97
February112
March94
April100
May89
June154
July206
Total842
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The "Critter Room" Kittens Cam is Back!
One of our fabulous foster parents streams a
live Kitten Cam 24/7. If you love kittens, you
will definitely want to check out the antics
of Marie and her newborns (Tesla, Einstein,
Darwin and Newton).
https://new.livestream.
com/FosterKittenCam/
TheScientistKittens
We are always looking for
more foster families for cats
and kittens. If you would
be interested in providing a
temporary home for kitties
in need, please email our
Foster Care Manager at
fostercare@purrfectpals.
org.
(…HELPING BLACK CATS, continued from page 1)
from a shelter. We believe the
unpopularity of black cats is
unrelated to the mythology.
Shoppers tend to be drawn
to the bright, the unusual,
the intricately patterned,
whether in clothes or
animals. Black cats fade into
the background compared
to the orange tabby in the
next cage, the silver tabby
down below. They don’t
always photograph well and
are often overlooked on
adoption websites as a result.
As one shelter director says,
“Black cats just don’t show
well.” For whatever reason,
they are euthanized in
overcrowded public shelters
at disproportionate rates.
The problem is compounded
by the common belief that Satanists and
nasty-minded teenagers seek black cats in
October for ritualistic torture and sacrifice.
In response, many shelters ban adoptions of
black cats for a full month before Halloween.
The result? Yet more end up euthanized.
Many in the animal rescue field have come to
believe that the risk is certainly exaggerated
and perhaps doesn’t exist at all. Most stories of
hideous sacrifice are likely urban legend.
Calendar
Kitten Adoptions! Every Saturday, 11-4
at Everett Petsmart
August 19 August 19 August 25
September 1-3
September 14-16 September 28-30 September 29 October 5-7 October 27 Pasado's Bark at
Marymoor Park
Animal Alliance
Adoption Event
(Everett Petsmart)
Purina Adoption Event (Arlington/Smokey Point
Walmart store)
Bumbershoot
PetSmart National
Adoption Event
Everett Fall Home Show
Adoption Event (Navy
Exchange at Smokey Point)
Issaquah Salmon Days
Black Cat Ball Benefit
Auction, Meydenbauer Center (Bellevue)
Wish List
• Dry Adult Cat Food (Purina Pro Plan
preferred)
• Dry Kitten Food (Royal Canin Babycat
or Pro Plan preferred)
• Canned Kitten Food (Royal Canin
Babycat or Pro Plan preferred)
• Paper towels
• Postage stamps
• Non-clumping Clay Cat Litter
WHY ADOPT A BLACK CAT?
In this newsletter, we feature some of the
many black cats at Purrfect Pals. They are not
only the most difficult to adopt out, they are
the least likely to be chosen for sponsorship.
We ask that you read their stories, look into
their eyes. The next time you are considering
adoption, pause by the cage to get to know the
black cat rather than letting yourself be drawn
past by the more colorful animal beyond. We
ask that you help us give these maligned, too
often tragic cats the luck they need to find
their loving home.
We asked Purrfect Pals staff, volunteers and
supporters why they love their black cats.
Here’s what they came up with…
“Holding a black cat is very slimming!”
“Black cat hair blends in with most clothing
colors!”
“Black cats match any décor in your house.”
“They are already dressed up for Halloween
parties!”
“Black cats are very sophisticated and chic.”
“Who doesn’t want their own panther?”
“Black is beautiful.”
“Love knows no color.”
“Black cats are the least likely to be adopted.
What better reason is there?”
PURR
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Have the Night of Your Life!
Attend the 15th Annual Auction Black Cat Ball
Mark your calendars! The 15th annual
Black Cat Ball Benefit Auction will take
place the evening of Saturday, October
27, 2012, at the Meydenbauer Center in
Bellevue, and you don’t want to miss it.
As always, the Black Cat Ball is
guaranteed to be fun, with complimentary
champagne flowing as you browse silent and
live auction tables, and items priced from
$15 to thousands of dollars. Attend and
indulge yourself, knowing that every dollar
spent benefits Purrfect Pals rescue work and
free spay/neuter clinic. Come in costume
and maybe win the costume contest (or
don business or evening wear) and enjoy
a gourmet vegetarian or vegan dinner
while Randy Scott, radio personality, joins
charismatic auctioneer, Chuck Whitman,
to entertain and inspire you.
You’ll have the chance to bid on over
500 items, including wonderful evenings
of dinner and theater in Seattle and the
Eastside, as well as stays in elegant hotels.
We’ll be offering getaways, including a two
night stay in the Walla Walla wine country
(the Marcus Whitman, with tastings at
local wineries) and two nights at the Inn
at Langley including a 6 course gourmet
dinner and spa treatment. Golfers will love
a two night stay and golf package (kayaking,
too!) at the Resort at Port Ludlow. Try fine
dining in Seattle at restaurants like Ten
Mercer, Salty’s Seafood Grill, Café Presse
or Julia’s. Dine and be entertained both at
Teatro Zinzanni or Dimitrious’s Jazz Alley.
Have more modest evenings locally, with
movie tickets and dinner.
We offer adventures galore. Go whale
watching (San Juan Excursions), kayaking
right here in Seattle or sea kayaking from
San Juan Island or out of Port Angeles,
or take a daylong keelboat crew sailing
lesson from Windworks Sailing Center!
Yoga, Pilates and dance lessons, massages,
reflexology and day spa treatments will
be available to tempt you. Host a circle of
your friends at wine tastings at Woodhouse
Family Cellars or Hood Canal Winery.
Take home a bottle of the kind of wine that
has critics buzzing. Love karaoke? Host a
fabulous party at Seattle’s Rock Box!
Our storage space is filling rapidly with
the always amazing donations of jewelry, art
glass (including a glorious Callahan McVay
vessel) and paintings as well as baskets of
goodies, home accessories, collectibles,
gourmet kitchen items and garden art.
Bid on one of several wonderful climbers
or that special bed for your extraordinary
cat. Win a dream photographic package
to memorialize your beloved four footed
friend. Or bid to have your cat’s photo in
the 2014 Purrfect Pals calendar (perhaps
even on the cover?).
Look for your invitation in the mail,
or call us at (360) 652-9611 ext. 4 or email
[email protected] to make sure you
get one! Easier yet? Tickets are now for sale
online – go to our website for i nformation!
We Need Your Help!
Help us make the auction a success! All
those tables and tables of fabulous items up
for auction…are donated. It’s true that some
of those donations are made by hotels, artists,
restaurants and jewelers. Many – most –
come from Purrfect Pals supporters like you.
Can you help? Here are some examples
of items and services that are especially
appealing:
• Airline tickets
• A cruise
• Boat rides (a cruise and lunch on a yacht?
a day long sail through the San Juans? a
fishing trip?
• Limousine services
• Getaways – a week at a timeshare? A
weekend at a beach-front cabin? Oregon
or Washington Coast, ski or wine country
condos, exotic vacation destinations or
close to home
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Winery tours & tastings
Unique experiences
Meet a local celebrity or chef
Fine wines, spirits & microbrews, or a
wine party or dinner at a local restaurant
Theater, ballet, opera or symphony tickets
Restaurant gift certificates (fine dining
and everyday cuisine)
Ski resort passes or lodging
Spa or massage gift certificates
Fine jewelry
Fine antiques and arts, art glass
Art or jewelry featuring cats
Gift Baskets – coffeee, gourmet food, bath
& body, garden
Tickets to sporting events – Seahawks,
Mariners, Huskies
Home, car or lawn and garden services
Rounds of golf
• Gift cards – everybody has to (or loves
to) shop – think mundane (hardware
or grocery store) or high end kitchen,
electronics, books. Local or online. Any
denomination.
Brand new items:
• Anything cat or dog – climbers, beds,
dishes, pet supply store gift cards
• Electronics – gaming systems, e-readers,
iPods, TVs, laptop or printer…
• Gourmet kitchen items – small appliances,
cookware, knife sets…
• Power tools, household electronics like
steam cleaner, vacuum cleaner
• Luxury handbags or accessories
• Home décor
PURR
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Black Cat Ball Benefit Auction 2012
It’s not too late to add your name or your
company name as a sponsor to our 15th annual
benefit auction! For more information, call
Auction Co-Chair Janice Johnson at (360)
652-9611 ext. 4 or email janice@purrfectpals.
org. Thank you so much to the sponsors who
have already signed on!
Sandy Lerner of Ayrshire Farm
John & Sherry Douceur
J.J. & Greg Farrar
In Memory of Joey Bear
Sue & Steve Heaps
Volunteer Opportunities
Although we have a wonderful cadre of
volunteers who return each year to make
the Black Cat Ball run smoothly, we will also
need new volunteers. Consider giving your
evening, and come see the excitement! Some
of the jobs we need to fill:
• Silent Auction Closers
• Runners
• Raffle Ticket Sales
• Cashiers
• Express Pay
• Packing Silent Auction Items
To volunteer, contact Sue Russell at susan.
[email protected] or (425) 787-2697.
Support Spay/Neuter
When you have to replace your
automobile license plate, make
the additional $25 donation that
goes to support low-cost and free
spay/neuter at shelters and rescue
groups across the state (including
Purrfect Pals). Plus, your new
license plate will promote your
commitment and help educate
other drivers about a pressing
need!
Buy your raffle tickets – only $1 each – for
the chance at a $500 shopping spree at
Nordstrom! Call (360) 652-9611 ext. 4 or
email [email protected] to buy
tickets. Avoid the rush and buy today.
While You're Online...
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and our occasional breaking news,
distributed by email? It's easy to sign
up - go to www.purrfectpals.org and
look at the top, left-hand side of the
screen. Add your email address, and
stay connected.
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SPONSOR A BLACK CAT!
On average, $25 a month pays for the food, on-going medical care (including vaccines, flea treatment and more) and care for one cat living
in a Purrfect Pals sanctuary area. This month, meet three lovable cats who may, for various reasons, end up staying long-term at Purrfect
Pals. Help them have great lives!
Casper Mesquite
Casper Mesquite is one of our newest
residents in our “Leukemia Land”
sanctuary area. He was brought to
Purrfect Pals because his family was
moving and couldn’t bring him along.
Casper is a very affectionate and
playful four year old who doesn’t have
any trouble keeping up with his kitten
roommates. He’s a handsome little
devil with a stubby tail and silky soft
fur. D
Special Thanks to:
The Girls of Girl Scout Troop #41327,
who honored their out-going leader,
Dani Ewanchuk, by donating money and
lots of bedding to Purrfect Pals. Dani had
introduced the troop to Purrfect Pals. The
girls expressed their hope that some of the
many blankets they’d helped make could go
home with the cats once they were adopted.
Simon Singer
Odysseus
These blankets had been made in many sizes
and colors, “just like the cats!”
The members of Ballard Emblem Club, who
donated a generous $200 to care for our “furry
friends”.
Nine year old Simon Singer spent many
months living in a public shelter. When
his time there was coming to an end,
Purrfect Pals came to his rescue. Simon
has a unique voice which sounds more
like a bark than a meow. How could
we resist that!? Simon came to us with
chronic diarrhea and anemia so he is
living in our Infirmary sanctuary area
for the time being. He loves sunning
himself in the large outdoor enclosure
that is attached to his room! D
Kai Hidaka, age 11, who asked that all
birthday gifts be given to the cats.
Kai’s cats Jasmine and Odette were
adopted from Purrfect Pals. Kai was
able to send a generous donation to
Purrfect Pals after his friends and
family happily gave to his
favorite charity.
Odysseus (affectionately known to our
staff as “Ody”) is a darling five year old
who lives in our FIV Land sanctuary.
Ody loves (and we mean, LOVES) people
and is happiest curled up in the laps
of visitors. He plays well with his
roommates and enjoys feather toys and
big squishy beds. Ody is available for
adoption as a permanent foster but
until we find a family for him, he will
be cherished here at Purrfect Pals. D
Paige Navarro, for the
adorable beds she made
for the shelter as part of
a school project. (see left)
Jeannie
&
Bruce
Nordstrom for their
generous donation to purchase
new cages for the shelter, designed
to improve both the health and
comfort of the cats.
The manager and staff of Everett Walmart
for giving $1,349 worth of canned cat food
picked up at one time, impressively filling
the front seat, back seat and trunk of the
volunteer’s car. D
PURR
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wHappy Endingst
MACEY
Macey is such a part of the family now…kinda runs
the place! She’s still a bit shy when new people
come over, but about 20 minutes after they arrive,
her curiosity gets the best of her and she has to join
the party.
Cassie Mccarthy
.
Thank you for our Charlie. When your organization
found him, he was in a field, flea infested and
homeless,, with barely any fur. A wonderful foster
family took him in and nursed him back to health.
We adopted him at the Walker’s Healthy Pet store
in Mill Creek. From the moment we saw him, we
knew he was our baby! He was known as Paddy
at the time, but we renamed him Charlie. We
have been so blessed to have him in our lives, he is
very spoiled, healthy and loved. He’s a wonderful
cuddler and loves to play. So much personality!
We are very appreciative of Purrfect Pals for being
advocates for all our furry friends.
Shannon & Chris Gooding
Brittney sends her love to all of you. Thank you
very much for saving her life. Our little girl brings
us great joy every day…
Richard & Jeanne Drozd
I adopted Jamond recently from the PetSmart
in Bellevue. I love this cat, and he and my other
cat, Huckleberry, are getting along well. It’s a fun
family.
Lela Barlow
HARMONY
With much fanfare, Harmony (age 6) found her
forever home with me in April after five months
with Purrfect Pals at the PetSmart store in Tukwila.
Befitting her name, Harmony is such a patient soul
with a motor purr and mischievous personality
– always investigating things around our Ballard
bungalow. So excited about the new space, she ran
around in circles for days at all hours of the day and
night. Mice and bouncing balls are her favorite
toys, she has a sun perch on the couch overlooking
the garden – and she loves paper bags! Harmony
has filled my heart with joy and we’re so happy
together. Thank you, Purrfect Pals!
Heather Kern
MENA
Wanted to give an update on how Trixie (now
Mena) is doing. We adopted her from Purrfect
Pals at the Woodinville PetSmart in August 2011
and within a few days she fit right in. She is our
only pet and likes being in charge! Mena is very
well behaved and always uses her litterbox and eats
all her food. We transitioned her to Blue Buffalo
Indoor Health dry and she gets Blue Spa wet
food in the evening for a treat. Mena has a good
selection of toys, scratchers and other fun things
to play with. Thanks again, Eva (Purrfect Pals
volunteer) and Purrfect Pals for finding a good fit
for us with Mena.
Monica & Steve Zimmerman
I tried writing this on the Purrfect Pals request
for donation, but I made a mess of it – under
“Occupation” I wrote “Caring for my beautiful
Tiramisu, a lovely Maine Coon tortie whom I have
renamed Chloe.” We spend all our time together
– she even sleeps with me (and decides when I
should get up!). Thank you so much for bringing
us together! She’s made my life worth living again
(at 89) and now I remember what unconditional
love feels like. I hope and pray we have lots more
time together – I couldn’t stand to lose her as I did
two kitties last year, one to cancer and one to megacolon. Bless you for the dedication and loving care
you provide.
Helen R. Haynes
QUESO & ROMI
It’s been almost three years since siblings Queso
(formerly Zucchini) and Romi (Romaine) joined
our family. They are absolutely, without a doubt,
the best cats ever! No offense to other cats, of
course. They’re both people lovers. Romi’s a little
shy around strangers, but Queso assumes that
anyone who comes to the house is there solely to
be his friend. Once he’s determined that you’re not
a small child with stomping feet and hair-pulling
fingers, you’re his. From that point you will be
subjected to endless licks (especially tasty fingers),
flops for belly rubs and rumbling purrs. Romi
saves her licks and flops for us alone, but she’ll
fetch for just about anyone. Her favorite fetchable
is Heffalump, a stuffed elephant that she carries
everywhere and will chase into any corner. They’re
a source of endless entertainment and love, from
the weird (Romi’s obsession with butter – dishes
are now rinsed immediately) to the wonderful
(waking up every morning trapped between the
two), and we’re so happy to have them in our life.
Jeanna & Joel Vogt
MOLLIE MAE
Thought you’d appreciate a picture of Mollie
Mae (and a friend). She loves to sit by the warm
hearth of the fireplace, and her friend provides
an additional warm pillow when he heats up.
She tolerates her other feline companion – the
relationship is still a work in progress - but doesn’t
growl at him anymore. She actually growled at
this ceramic cat when she first came home. All is
well…
Robert E. Buck
In thanks to your organization. I visited last July
when I was looking for a cat and, although none
there at the shelter at the time seemed like the right
one, someone referred me to Nancy Wahl (active
in trapping, TNR and placing difficult cats). She
emailed me about more cats looking for homes and
I found one. Kilowatt is a friendly gray tabby who
is a great companion.
Noel Holley
PURR
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Little Buddy aka Erik the Red checking himself
out – or maybe he’s checking out the stranger in
the mirror?
This is Wanjai (aka Bunnie), sending in my alumni
dues – class of 2008 (May 1). I will be turning 5
in September. I’m very happy with my owner Mr.
Mark.
Love, Wanjai and Mark Hughes
In thanks for all you do! My Lindi from you is a
dream.
Betty McLellan
HERTZ
It will soon be three years since we took in two 7
month old feral cats to foster from Purrfect Pals.
Watts became friendly and went to a place in
Renton from which he was soon adopted. Hertz
was scared to death and wasn’t ready for adoption,
so we had him quite a while longer. By July, he
was still a little iffy and we had grown so fond of
him that we adopted him ourselves. He’s a totally
indoor cat who loves our little poodle Mitzi. He’s
become quite affectionate, too – he curls up on my
shoulder at bedtime when I’m reading in bed and
purrs and purrs. A lot of the night he sleeps curled
up against my back and has even licked my face
while I’m sleeping. We have taken him in a crate
on a few trips with us and he never tries to get out
of the motel room. He really has it down pat that
he belongs with us and that we are faithful to him.
It has been so much fun to see his trust in us grow
and grow. We can’t imagine life without him.
Nancy & Irving Nysether
This is Grace (formerly “Greer”) who wants to let
you know that there is nothing better than a good
book and a good friend with whom to share it.
GRACE
Grace will be celebrating her one year adoption
anniversary in a few weeks.
Angela Stalgis
In thanks to Purrfect Pals for taking in the little
black and white cat I brought to you about a year
ago. In the end, she had to have a leg amputated,
which made me sad. However, I know she was
adopted, and I hope she is still with that family
and that they’ve been able to accommodate her
handicap and love her for her great qualities. I
won’t forget.
Lynn
handsome fellow with a soft coat. He likes the back
of the couch to sleep or sit on, with the window
offering him a view of the world outside. When
I sit down (whether it is in a chair, on the bed or
on the toilet), he has a lap to sit on. Sometimes
he even jumps on my shoulders and then climbs
down my front to get into the exact spot where it’s
most comfortable for him. We sleep together on
my bed. He always lies down facing me, putting
one of his paws on me. We lie there looking at each
other. The wonder of love radiates from each of us.
What a thrill. He wants to be with me wherever
I am, following me around the house. I’m a
seamstress, so I have lots of lovely fabric, quilts,
batting, etc. to give him soft spots to rest. I have
a small, fat doll (needing some clothing, which
doesn’t seem to bother Batman) that he likes to lay
on. She doesn’t mind, either, so it’s a good fit. Just
wanted to let you know how very blessed we feel,
both of us. Thank you again for the opportunity to
share in your mission.
Helen
ST. PATRICK
Here is a recent photo of our Kiki who we adopted
back in November. She is doing well. You can see
here that she was not eager for us to go away on
our vacation without her. We missed her antics
while we were away - she loves to pull toys out of
her basket and scatter them around the house. We
love going places, but having a cat like Kiki waiting
for you at home makes the end of the vacation
KIKI
something you actually look forward to. Thanks
so much for giving a vintage cat like Kiki a chance
to find her furever home.
Sherri Douceur
My friend Suzan Hulen told me about you folks
when I was ready for a new kitty. Upon seeing
how you care for all the kitties, we were excited
to meet the one that had been picked out for
me. Am writing this note to tell you THANK
YOU FOR THE HONOR OF LETTING ME BE
A PERMANENT FOSTER MOM FOR ONE OF
YOUR CATS. We were amazed at the send off you
gave us. Tears were shed. I’m writing to let you
know how he is. As you know, Batman is a very
St. Patrick has lived at Purrfect Pals for seven years.
A feral cat when he came, this handsome guy was
slow to learn to trust. Shelter staff and volunteers
were determined to give him so much affection,
he couldn’t hold out, and nothing gives us more
pleasure than to announce that he has been
adopted! You may recognize his very distinctive
face from holiday sponsor cards and newsletter.
St. Patrick’s new owner spotted this exceptionally
handsome 12 year old guy on Facebook. We hear
already that he’s settling in well.
Dear Mon Amore, Kathy wrote to let me
know you may have found your “forever
home”. What great news! I hope you will
be happy and be loved by people who need a
ray of sunshine in their lives. It has been my
pleasure to sponsor you! Love, Suzy
Note: Yes, long time Purrfect Pals resident Mon
Amore did indeed find a home of her own and
someone to love her. Everyone at Purrfect Pals
is thrilled for her. Our thanks to Suzy Day, who
generously sponsored Mon Amore’s care while
she lived at the shelter.
PURR
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In Honor and In Memory
In memory of Trina and in honor of Janet Berwick and the
staff at Paddywack – thanks for all you did for Trina!
The Federlein Family Fund
In memory of my mom, Barbara Mazzie, who loved animals
Claudia Mazzie-Ballheim
In loving memory of Linda Phelps
Michael Rizzo
In loving memory of Beau, who left us May 8th, 2012
Susie & Dave Bloomer
In Honor of Rachel Schloss-Hamburg’s Bat Mitzvah
Marvin & Bonnie Siegel
Barbara & Jerry August
Terri Goldberg
In honor of Ming Ling
Susan Schrier
In honor of Smeed, a Purrfect Pals cat who recently passed
Colleen Aldrich
In memory of our lovely Autumn (Whisker Dots). Autumn
and her brother Bear were feral kittens when we trapped
them 7 ½ years ago. We intended to socialize them and
afterwards have Purrfect Pals find them a good home. Of
course, once we had them awhile we couldn’t part with them,
so we ended up adopting them ourselves. Autumn was
never comfortable with strangers, but she was a sweetheart
to Lindy and me. Autumn never meowed – she cooed. She
was a good little traveler, and went with us on all our motor
home trips. Her sudden illness was devastating to us. Seven
and a half years wasn’t nearly long enough to have her in our
lives. We miss you terribly, Autumn.
Lorrie, Lindy, Carbee, Nooksack and Bear
In memory of Barbara Rozelle, a firm believer in Purrfect
Pals. She loved the cats she adopted from you.
Anna Gerald McMahon
In memory of my mom’s cat Callie
In memory of Cleo Holbrook, Binky Reed, Sarah Newman
and Squeakers Bayless
Animal Healing Center
ROCKWELL
Yesterday we lost my best friend Rockwell. He was a
Purrfect Pals kitty, and was he ever. He came to live here in
his forever home on March 8, 2008 after living in shelters for
a year and a half and at one time being on death row. The
minute he came to our house he made the place his home.
It’s funny how everything in our world started to revolve
around him and our other cat Belle. Rockwell was a talker
and could say his name. He was so soft and could purr so
loud, I gave him the nickname Evinrude. But he was best
known as Rock Cat. He was so smart he’d know what time it
was and would come to bed and start to groom me by licking
my head to get me to wake up for work or – more often – to
come and play. Rockwell loved to play! He could jump so
high and was so fast he always made me smile. He loved
to put on his harness and go for walks. He was my Rocket
Cat. He loved to watch the movie Underdog and liked to
put on his cape and then I’d carry him through the house
stretched out and say, “Never fear, Rock Cat is here.” So, to
you, Rockwell, I say Rah Rah and please know you touched
our very souls. We love you and miss you so much. We just
can’t believe you’re gone.
With love, Dad, Mom, Dani & Belle
In loving memory of Kenya (formerly Dido), adopted March
2003. She died of a stroke. We’re shocked at losing her so
suddenly. Thank you for allowing us to have such a sweet
and gentle cat in our lives! She was shy but very bonded
with us. She constantly wanted to be petted – and she got
exactly what she wanted. Rest in peace, Kenya – we’ll never,
ever forget you.
Anke Fitzgerald & Abe Crittenden
In honor of my aunt, Sandra Vaughan
Mike & Leah Benson
Michael Karschner
I’ve lost two more precious Purrfect Pals to cancer – my
Benny and Ferrah. Bless you for helping me to remember
their sweet lives.
Karen Samuels
In honor of my sister Victoria’s birthday
Holly Morgan
In memory of Alley Cat and Pretty Baby
Donna Kerns
In honor of our son Jordan Lerman’s 39th birthday. He and
his wife recently adopted Sugar Persian Face from Purrfect
Pals. Your cause is dear to them and us as well.
Barbara Lerman
Dedicated to Moosh and Chowder
Megan Kelly
In memory of Harven Wood and Hoover Reed
Larry Siegler and the staff
of Animal Healing Center
In memory of our dear sweet Titan. We miss him every day,
but we had 17 wonderful years of joy with our remarkable
cat. Thank you so much for all you do, making it possible for
so many of us to adopt the loves of our lives.
Colleen Rowe
In memory of Lucie, loved by Patricia Miller
Kelly A. Straight
In honor of Oakland
Thomas Astin
On behalf of Steelers (now Nermal), who we adopted this
past spring
Janell Toppen
In memory of Sam Strong, the beloved cat of Janet and Jim
Strong. Sam was 19 years old and had a wonderful life. He
will be missed very much.
Tamar Sylvan Mitts & Jay W. Mitts
In remembrance of Minnie and Mickey, Merle Westcott’s
favorite twosome. Remembering especially Minnie just now.
Sharon Damon
In the name of Paddy Riley
Terry Coyle
In memory of Polo, beloved family member for 19 years and
greatly missed by us.
Vicki Rowland
In memory of Max & Thomas
Cynthia & David Anderson
In memory of Les Paul and Soho (Felv+ cats who lived at
Purrfect Pals)
Denise & Manny Trautmann
TILLIE
On May 1 we lost our beloved Tillie, who we adopted from
Purrfect Pals on July 11, 2001 (her Purrfect Pals name was
Alice). Tillie developed severe diabetes in November 2011
and unfortunately the disease could never be controlled.
She was insulin resistant, which meant her blood sugar was
never regulated. We made the decision to euthanize her
after her third episode of acute hypoglycemia. She died very
peacefully. Please accept this heartfelt donation in memory
of Tillie.
Julie & Tony Urban
In memory of Buster, adopted in June 2004
Jane Elliott & Chris Harsant
In honor of my friend Allison Quinn on the occasion of her
birthday
Tracy Van Woert
In memory of “Bo” Grinnell
In honor of Sassy & Smudge
City Kitty
Kimberly Cunningham
Jan Bell
In honor of Cajun
Lori Bomengen
In memory of Orion
Mary Hannan
In honor of Rosie
Ann Bett-Madhavan
In honor of Hope and Onyx
Kristi Kramer
In honor of Rosebud
Patricia Baumann
In honor of Tiki Cat
Patricia Barbachan
In honor of Dawn Ritter and Dave Blue
In memory of Elizabeth and Nelson C. Bliven, who believed
strongly in the work Purrfect Pals does.
Karen Anderson
In memory of my wife Sheila, who passed on four years
ago. She was only 65 years old, and the most wonderful girl
PURR
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I’ve ever known. She had many cats even before I met her,
and we had many together, including Big Foot, Edwena and
Maeling.
Ellis Smith
In memory of Linda and Glenn’s pretty orange girl Spice.
She was a sweetheart, and is missed by her mom, dad and
three sisters (Betty, Bernie and Bree).
Lorrie Lippert
In memory of Winifred M. Glines
Anonymous
In memory of Dennis (Gordy) Cave
In memory of Titi
Anonymous
In memory of Walt Nothaft
Robin Cave
Norene Townson
Happy birthday, Kai Hidaka!
Ethan T.
In memory of Monkey, Sandra Dinnis’s kitty
TOOTIE
In memory of our cat, Tootie, who passed away on November
20th at the age of 17. We adopted sweet Tootie blue eyes
from Purrfect Pals in 2002. Due to her outgoing personality
and beauty, she was by far the most popular of any of our
cats amongst family and friends. She will be greatly missed.
John & Sherry Douceur
In loving memory of Karen Delaurenti
Julia Bitondo
Happy birthday to my mother, LaVonne Schott!
LaFay & Family
In honor of Shakespeare Arnold
John & Elaine Hanby
In memory of my mother, Margaret Snook, who cared deeply
about the well-being of vulnerable animals, especially cats.
She would love knowing that she has two new “grandcats”,
thanks to Purrfect Pals. Chappie and Weston are healthy,
happy, affectionate members of our family. At 8 months old,
they keep us smiling. My mother would be very pleased with
your work and delighted to know that she could support it.
Sue Sherbrooke
In memory of my cat Gordo, who died in September
Kirby McCoy
In memory of Brenda Buchanan. Thank you for caring for
her cats after Brenda’s sudden death.
Nancy Streiffert
Jen Doak
In loving memory of Marcia Haynes, who was a cat lover to
the core. A rescuer, if she couldn’t find homes that measured
up to her very high standards, she would keep the cats.
Marcia was proud that the average life span of our felines
was over 17 years. It is a tribute to the fine care she gave
her animals. Her love of life, people and animals has been
transmitted to her children and grandchildren. Marcia died
of cancer January 17 in her home, with our family and with
Belle (means beautiful in Italian and beauty in French), one
of her favorite cats and a constant companion at her side.
Doug Haynes
Krista Erickson
William & Dorothy Duff
Katherine Duff
Teresa & Rick Sigurdson
Rosemary Falsis
June Elder
In memory of Chessie Wietting
Pamela Girres
In memory of Tommy, who brought much laughter and love
to Mike and Tracy as they moved around Washington State.
Janis Linn
In memory of Marley
The staff at Harmony Animal
Wellness Center of Monroe
In memory of Diamond Dallas
In memory of Sophia
Beth Schlansky
Jen Doak
In honor of Penelope, Sarabella and Carmen
Susan Thornton
In honor of the good people of Meadows Cat Hospital. They
sent me a very kind card after the death of Hugh, a sweet,
small, black cat who lost a fight with melanoma. Please
accept the donation in his memory, too.
Ava Frisinger
In memory of Snowshoe, Dink and Buster
Patricia Collaizzo
In memory of Lucie, my senior girl cat
In honor of Lori Anton, who told me about your wonderful
shelter.
Christina Brundage
In memory of Big Daddy Pezzner
In memory of Tiki, Heidi and Spedley
In loving memory of Millie the Cat
Junelle Erickson
Paige Garberding
In memory of our son Rob Woltzen
Jeanne & Harold Woltzen
In memory of TC and Samantha
Glenn & Ruth Phillips
Patricia Miller
Larry Siegler
In memory of Lorrie Lippert’s cat Autumn. She will be
missed very much. Please use the donation for the Tipper
Fund.
LaRene Kuller
In memory of my friend Allison’s cocker spaniel, Buddy,
who went to doggie heaven right before Thanksgiving.
Buddy was the best friend of my cat, Smudgie Joe, who went
to kitty heaven in August 2010. They were – well – best
buds! Smudgie would rub up against Buddy, and Buddy
looked for Smudgie every time he came to my house…after
he got his treats, of course. I’m sure Smudgie was there
to greet Buddy at that great animal playground in the sky.
Sleep well, Buddy and Smudgie – BFFs!
Sandy Gibson
In memory of Hercules, who I adopted from Purrfect Pals
in January 2004. He collapsed and died suddenly on Friday.
He had a happy life here.
Rodney Reed
In memory of Felix, who passed away suddenly in February.
We adopted him in December 2002 – off Kathy’s bed! He
was a wonderful, loveable friend. The grandkids would lay
their heads on him and he didn’t mind. So easy going. He
is so missed.
Sid & Barbara Stillwaugh
In memory of Kim’s sweet boy Bob. He was a special part
of Kim’s life for almost 15 years. He’s missed so very much.
Lorrie Lippert
In memory of Kitten Mitten, beloved cat of Diana Carter.
Kitten Mitten had disappeared seven years ago but was
found this year by a volunteer for Alley Cat, a group that
traps feral colonies for TNR. When Kitten Mitten was
trapped, the volunteer saw that he was wearing a collar by
which his owner was eventually traced. The kind volunteer
kept him in her “foster cat room” and spearheaded much
needed grooming and medical attention. She kept him in
“rehab” until he stopped snarling and hissing and became
a gentle, purring cat. At this time he was returned to his
original owner who cared for him a short time before he
died of kidney problems.
John & Shari Richardson In memory of Joe’s foster girl, Naomi. Naomi was a blind
adult cat living at Purrfect Pals when Joe decided to take her
home as a permanent foster. Being blind didn’t stop Naomi
from making herself right at home in her new house. She
had no trouble figuring out where the food and water dishes
were, or where the litterbox was located. She was a sweet,
gentle kitty who loved attention. Thank you to Joe for being
willing to take this special girl into his home, and for loving
her the last two years of her life. His house is empty without
her. Miss you, Naomi!
Lorrie Lippert
In honor of Cher, our rescued cat
Sandra Coke
In honor of Rex Xena
Sharon Eaton
In memory of Ringer and Shadow
Leslie Harding
In memory of my sister, Ardis, who loved little furry
creatures. I miss her and her pet rabbit BunBun.
Sissy
In honor of my friends from the Cat Planet
Patricia Hedtke
In memory of our sweet Meggie Moo – we loved her dearly.
Jan & Rich Rowe
In honor of Kiki Lenore Ostwald
In memory of Judith Blake
Willie K. Jinka
Jennifer Ostwald
PURR
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TIPPER FUND UPDATE
The Tipper Fund pays for extraordinary surgeries and vet procedures that demand
resources beyond our ability to offer without help. Here are a couple of examples:
Clink is a sweet kitten who was found
wandering in the parking lot of the
Monroe prison. Luckily one of the
guards there called us for help because
something in his mouth seemed to be
bothering him. After examining this
fluffy purrbox, who we affectionately
named "Clink", Dr. Morgan discovered
that the large mass in his mouth was
actually made up of pieces of his broken
jaw bone and teeth. We don't know how
he was injured but he definitely needed
help and was rushed into surgery. He
made it through the procedure and,
thanks to the Tipper Fund, was given a
second chance!
ADOPT A LUCKY
BLACK CAT!
During the month of August, we are discounting
our adoption fee for black cats to only $50.00!
Here is just one of the black beauties who are
waiting for forever homes...
Riddock
Riddock was surrendered after his owner
became allergic to him. He had a small mass
on his nose that our veterinarian removed
and we can't guarantee that it won't come
back. Because of this, Riddock is available as
a "permanent foster" and we will continue to
provide free medical care for him at our clinic
in Arlington. He is a sweet nine year old boy
who is front declawed and looking for a safe
indoor only home where he can live like a king!
You will love Riddock’s kinky little tail and
loud purr! D
CLINK
Yes! I want to help the cats at Purrfect Pals!
230 McRae Road NE
Arlington, WA 98223
(360) 652-9611
purrfectpals.org
Enclosed is my tax-deductible donation of:
$35 (will provide KMR formula for a litter of kittens)
$125 (will provide for six months of care for a typical sanctuary kitty)
$500 (spay and neuter surgery for two litters of kittens and their moms)
Name
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230 McRae Road NE
Arlington, WA 98223
NON-PROFIT ORG.
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EVERETT, WA
PERMIT NO. 194
Thanks to artist Aki Sogabe