Here's a fun cat facts video! Short, sweet and funny. It's helpful to know why our cats behave they way they do, how to tell a female from a male, and the reason behind that sweet purr we love so much. Enjoy!
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Monday, April 1, 2013
Meeting Gwen Cooper, Author & Giveaway
by Christine Michaels
Update April 9: The winner of the Litter Genie is KIMBERLY EHRHARDT! Congratulations Kimberly! Please check your email and reply within 48 hours to claim your prize.
When the New Year rings in, we look forward to those unexpected highlights in life. One of those extended fireworks sparkled last Thursday. It was the date that I met one of my favorite authors, Gwen Cooper.
A native Miamian, Gwen is the author of NY Times bestseller, Homer's Odyssey, the story of a blind black cat she adopted as a kitten. I loved the book so much that I shared a review on both my personal blog and for Riverfront Cats. Gwen is an author and a cat lover, the best combination of qualities in my opinion.
Her book not only entertained readers but it really helped to educate new and non cat owners about cats in general, that blind cats are not entirely handicapped, and that in having three cats a woman can lead a robust life, thus demystifying the label of "crazy cat lady".
So when I learned that Gwen was returning to Miami to launch her new book Love Saves the Day, I cleared the calendar and counted the days.
At Books & Books in Coral Gables, Deb Barnes and I along with fellow Cat Network members, caught up with Gwen before the other fans arrived. She was everything we imagined and more. While some authors are introverted and develop sweaty palms and jitters before speaking engagements, not Gwen. Or at least she didn't let you see her sweat. She was chatty and perky and we felt like instant friends.
This evening she read from the first chapter of her new book, Love Saves the Day. For a video introduction to her new novel, please visit my previous post.
We learned that the book was a two year project but rewritten entirely three weeks before the deadline. The pressures of authoring a book! So why fictional? For starters, the setting is the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Gwen was drawn by the eccentric trappings of this corner of Manhattan beholden to the art and music of the 70s and 80s. There are numerous references to Gwen's husband, a music lover. Sarah (the mother in the book) is a former aspiring DJ. And the name of the cat "Prudence" came from? You guessed it! Dear Prudence, a Beatles song Gwen's husband played incessantly during the writing of the book.
"It was fortuitous that the refrain sang 'Dear Prudence won't you come out to play', " shares Gwen.
We love learning these nuggets of information that shape the story for a book.
As she read from the book, I was spellbound. The first third of the book is written from the point of the view of Prudence the cat. Gwen portrayed the tone, the attitude of Prudence with red laser dot precision. Gwen knows Cat! Prudence plays an important role in harmonizing a young woman's conflict with her past-- a tumultuous upbringing in her mother's dusty, Bohemian record store. Later chapters change to the third person and we learn more about the characters and devastating details about housing in the Lower East Side.
After the reading Gwen did advise not to be mislead by the juvenile book cover--the gradient blue background, sparkling stars and young looking brown tabby cat. Everyone can relate to the moral of the story- the complexity of relationships especially when a parent dies--circumstances beyond anyone's control that leads to a strained relationship, about the things left unsaid, and miscommunications. Pets we know can be the catalyst in bonding people. The journey and lessons of life are drawn from both humans and animals.
There’s an extra bonus for music lovers of the 1960’s -1990’s especially those that remember the New York music scene in late 1970’s, disco and punk. Gwen graciously includes an acknowledgement section listing some of the books that served as valuable research material, such as books about music, the Lower East Side, and Alphabet City.
We highly recommend the book and with warmer weather approaching, it's a great summer read on the hammock, under a tree or in your favorite reading room.
Here's how to win:
Update April 9: The winner of the Litter Genie is KIMBERLY EHRHARDT! Congratulations Kimberly! Please check your email and reply within 48 hours to claim your prize.
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| Christine Michaels & Gwen Cooper |
When the New Year rings in, we look forward to those unexpected highlights in life. One of those extended fireworks sparkled last Thursday. It was the date that I met one of my favorite authors, Gwen Cooper.
A native Miamian, Gwen is the author of NY Times bestseller, Homer's Odyssey, the story of a blind black cat she adopted as a kitten. I loved the book so much that I shared a review on both my personal blog and for Riverfront Cats. Gwen is an author and a cat lover, the best combination of qualities in my opinion.
Her book not only entertained readers but it really helped to educate new and non cat owners about cats in general, that blind cats are not entirely handicapped, and that in having three cats a woman can lead a robust life, thus demystifying the label of "crazy cat lady".
So when I learned that Gwen was returning to Miami to launch her new book Love Saves the Day, I cleared the calendar and counted the days.
At Books & Books in Coral Gables, Deb Barnes and I along with fellow Cat Network members, caught up with Gwen before the other fans arrived. She was everything we imagined and more. While some authors are introverted and develop sweaty palms and jitters before speaking engagements, not Gwen. Or at least she didn't let you see her sweat. She was chatty and perky and we felt like instant friends.
This evening she read from the first chapter of her new book, Love Saves the Day. For a video introduction to her new novel, please visit my previous post.
 |
| Gwen signs book for local fan |
We learned that the book was a two year project but rewritten entirely three weeks before the deadline. The pressures of authoring a book! So why fictional? For starters, the setting is the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Gwen was drawn by the eccentric trappings of this corner of Manhattan beholden to the art and music of the 70s and 80s. There are numerous references to Gwen's husband, a music lover. Sarah (the mother in the book) is a former aspiring DJ. And the name of the cat "Prudence" came from? You guessed it! Dear Prudence, a Beatles song Gwen's husband played incessantly during the writing of the book.
"It was fortuitous that the refrain sang 'Dear Prudence won't you come out to play', " shares Gwen.
We love learning these nuggets of information that shape the story for a book.
As she read from the book, I was spellbound. The first third of the book is written from the point of the view of Prudence the cat. Gwen portrayed the tone, the attitude of Prudence with red laser dot precision. Gwen knows Cat! Prudence plays an important role in harmonizing a young woman's conflict with her past-- a tumultuous upbringing in her mother's dusty, Bohemian record store. Later chapters change to the third person and we learn more about the characters and devastating details about housing in the Lower East Side.
After the reading Gwen did advise not to be mislead by the juvenile book cover--the gradient blue background, sparkling stars and young looking brown tabby cat. Everyone can relate to the moral of the story- the complexity of relationships especially when a parent dies--circumstances beyond anyone's control that leads to a strained relationship, about the things left unsaid, and miscommunications. Pets we know can be the catalyst in bonding people. The journey and lessons of life are drawn from both humans and animals.
There’s an extra bonus for music lovers of the 1960’s -1990’s especially those that remember the New York music scene in late 1970’s, disco and punk. Gwen graciously includes an acknowledgement section listing some of the books that served as valuable research material, such as books about music, the Lower East Side, and Alphabet City.
We highly recommend the book and with warmer weather approaching, it's a great summer read on the hammock, under a tree or in your favorite reading room.
LITTER GENIE GIVEAWAY
Gwen's visit was thanks in part to the makers of the Litter Genie. I was fortunate to win one but knew readers could use it more. Therefore we are giving away one white Litter Genie to a lucky reader anywhere in US or Canada. Contest closes at 11:59pm April 7. The winner will be announced here on this post after April 7. Winner has 48 hours to claim prize.
Here's how to win:
- Leave a comment below stating why you would like to win a Litter Genie. If you don't have a Google account, please leave your email on the post so we have a way to reach you. (Required entry)
- Like "Riverfront Cats" on Facebook. www.facebook.com/RiverfrontCats
- Like our big brother site "Pawsitively Humane" on Facebook www.facebook.com/PawsitivelyHumane
- Share this giveaway on Facebook. Leave a separate comment here letting us know you posted FB.
- Share this giveaway on Twitter and leave a separate comment here letting us know you tweeted.
Good luck! And let Love Save Your Day.
Monday, March 18, 2013
Lion King--caring for a sick community feral cat
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| Lion King January 2012, at his regular weight |
It's been four years now since we started managing and caring for the Riverfront Cats. In total there are now 19 cats. Most of them were born before we moved into these new condos, fed by construction workers during the building boom and then bust of 2007, 2008 in downtown Miami. The Riverfront Cats are at least four years old or older. Throughout these years the cats have appeared relatively healthy.
Some of the cats are feral, semi-feral and friendly. So what happens when a feral cat gets sick? How do we capture them? Is our vet trained to exam a feral cat? Does it make sense to spend hundreds of dollars on a sick feral cat? We knew the day would come when we would have to ask these weighted questions and make difficult life and death decisions. That day was last week.
Some of you may remember Lion King. He was one of the three cats that Christine first trapped when learning about TNR in 2009. This semi-feral cat was losing weight during the winter when most of the outdoor cats gain weight. Red Flag #1. Then Christine noticed drooling. Red Flag #2. You see semi-feral cats do not normally drool. Christine knew this was most likely stomatitis or a form of dental disease. She had treated a sick cat in South Beach with the same symptoms. She knew to observe Lion King while he was eating. Sure enough, in just letting the moist food touch his mouth, Lion King flinched and the gob of moist food fell out of his mouth and missed the ceramic bowl (yes our neighborhood cats get treated like true pets in sanitary, clean bowls). This happened repeatedly for weeks. It was so painful that Lion King could not eat. He was literally starving to death and his body was shrinking and shriveling. He was a dull blonde sack of skin and bones. We knew it was time to make plans to capture and treat him.
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| Christine in her cat costume (in celebration of Feral Cat Day in October 2012 ) feeding Lion King and Chaz Leroy |
More questions swirled. Would Lion King stop trusting the volunteer who captured him and took him to unknown environment with a room full of strangers, the vet clinic? If regular pets dreaded the vet clinic would this fear be exponential for a feral cat? Would Lion King stop trusting all the volunteers? Would he even appear at feeding time? What if he needed daily medicine administered in his food? In the meantime, he was deteriorating. It was time to stop wondering and stop the pain.
The task began of capturing Lion King. Both Sabrina and Christine, on separate occasions, attempted to carefully place him in the carrier (he only allows us to touch him at feeding station, hence why he's "semi-feral") but Lion King scuffled and ran off only to return seconds later for more petting. That alone was unexpected and a joyous moment. He was semi-feral, but he loved and trusted us. After six attempts of grab-push-scuffle, we abandoned the gentle approach. You know the saying "it takes a village". Thankfully our friends at neighboring Florida Power & Light yard would keep an eye on Chaz Leroy and Lion King. (The piles of lumber and concrete blocks are a playground for the cats). They too noticed Lion King's deterioration. True cat men and animal lovers, Chistine received the call last Wednesday that Richard caught Lion King. Finally! She then rushed him to the vet. Lion King would have to be sedated in order to examine him. Did the vet know how to handle a feral cat to sedate him? We always wondered if all vets were trained in handling feral cats. "Yes we do this all the time with unfriendly cats". But they sent Christine home to wait. Before heading out the door, there was the matter of the the estimate $370-$580. Ouch.
First, the examination. The good news. No tumors were visible. The drooling was blood and puss from an infected tooth and gums. A tooth extraction was the answer. Next a blood test. The vet called to announce that Lion King tested positive for FIV, feline Aids, transmissible to other cats. The first decision "Do you want to consider euthanization since he could infect other cats"? It was a loaded question that we never anticipated. What was the correct answer? There is no right or wrong answer. Only the caretaker can assess all the variables and reach one decision. The ultimate goal is that the cat not suffer. Sometimes euthanasia is the only humane solution.
The volunteers conferred. Lion King roamed the west side of the building and was in contact with three other cats. We knew they didn't fight. Chaz Leroy was also his best buddy. They loved each other. Secondly, if Lion King didn't have cancer or if an injection now could replace daily doses of medicine, and if volunteers could collectively pay the bill until fundraising efforts were launched, the decision was easy--continue with the treatment. No euthanasia.
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| Lion King waking up after sedation/tooth extraction |
LESSONS LEARNED
This experience has provided deeper insight about the behavior of feral cats. No two cats are alike and even semi-feral cats have distinct personalities, habits and gestures and will trust caretakers. More importantly, this story demonstrates that caring for a colony is the same as caring for outdoor pets. Feeders of feral cats need to consider the responsibility of taking sick cats to the vet and the associated costs. This is why we encourage feeders to learn the proper way to trap cats and to educate neighbors and residents about the plight of homeless cats to seek support and teamwork so one person does not carry the burden. That's how Riverfront Cats started. Christine jumped into action, learned about TNR and TNRM and immediately created flyers to pass out to neighbors. She also hands out flyers with updates.So if you are wondering what was the total bill well...Lion King also received dental cleaning and tartar removal to prevent further infection. The vet did recommend to bring him once a year for dental cleaning given that his immune system is weakened and can not fight infections. To treat his dehydration and lack of nutrients, he was given electrolytes and fluids through an IV. All this along with anesthesia, an injection of antibiotics, totaled $575.80. With our nonprofit discount, it was reduced to $480 (click here to view the full bill).
HOW YOU CAN HELP
*** We are NOT asking for money ***
There's an easy way!!!
If you follow a charity, you probably receive a regular stream of letters and emails asking for financial donations presented with poignant stories like Lion King. We know you care and want to help but like most people, there are budgets and limits. We have a better idea! CLICK HERE.
Donation are always welcome. Simply click on the DONATE NOW button to the right.
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Is Your Cat afraid of the Big Bad Vacuum Cleaner?
Are all cats afraid of The MONSTER??? The Vacuum Cleaner? Turns out many pet households also label this loud, moving appliance as the unfriendly alien.
In general cats are frightened by sudden or loud noises. Even dogs can be spooked by these upright, mobile, metal/plastic objects with roaring noise. Our family of felines exhibit a range of reactions in response to the bright yellow "transformers".
Hansel & Gretel immediately scamper and run under the bed. Helio will watch at a distance but once the machine comes within a few feet, he races off true to his name sake (race car driver Helio Castronoves).
Jean Pierre and Geisha will awaken from a nap and give a perturbed look "Do you have to vacuum now mom? It's nap time". As the monster comes within inches, the "man of the house" and "supermodel" jump out of their pet beds and seek refuge in the next room. I apologize for interrupting their beauty sleep.
We also know there are exceptions. Meet Johnny Walker who is more curious than scared of the vacuum cleaner. He is one cool cat! See the video below. And he's an all black cat--just further proof that black cats are intelligent and special!
Stress is unhealthy for humans and cats. It's important to announce to your cat of the incoming intrusion. At our household, the sound of the wheels of the vacuum cleaner signals that the Monster will rear it's roaring self.
We'd like to know if your cat is scared and how they react. Tell us! Also what do you call the vacuum cleaners? Do you call it "The Monster" or some other label? Leave a comment below and take our poll to the right.
In general cats are frightened by sudden or loud noises. Even dogs can be spooked by these upright, mobile, metal/plastic objects with roaring noise. Our family of felines exhibit a range of reactions in response to the bright yellow "transformers".
Hansel & Gretel immediately scamper and run under the bed. Helio will watch at a distance but once the machine comes within a few feet, he races off true to his name sake (race car driver Helio Castronoves).
Jean Pierre and Geisha will awaken from a nap and give a perturbed look "Do you have to vacuum now mom? It's nap time". As the monster comes within inches, the "man of the house" and "supermodel" jump out of their pet beds and seek refuge in the next room. I apologize for interrupting their beauty sleep.
We also know there are exceptions. Meet Johnny Walker who is more curious than scared of the vacuum cleaner. He is one cool cat! See the video below. And he's an all black cat--just further proof that black cats are intelligent and special!
Stress is unhealthy for humans and cats. It's important to announce to your cat of the incoming intrusion. At our household, the sound of the wheels of the vacuum cleaner signals that the Monster will rear it's roaring self.
We'd like to know if your cat is scared and how they react. Tell us! Also what do you call the vacuum cleaners? Do you call it "The Monster" or some other label? Leave a comment below and take our poll to the right.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Prison Inmates Socialize Cats
Just came across this news headlines. It's absolutely brilliant and an easy solution. A win-win-win-win for cats, inmates, taxpayers, and the shelters. Watch the news video below. These cats have perches, natural light, fresh air and constant attention.
KPTV - FOX 12
Since the program began last year, the inmates have helped nine cats get adopted. They also raised six kittens, bottle-feeding them every four hours until the animals could eat solid food.
To work with the cats, the inmates must have a history of good behavior with the Department of Corrections and no violent crimes or animal abuse in their history. The application process also includes an interview with prison staff.
While other prisons have foster programs for dogs, this is the only program involving cats in the Washington State Department of Corrections, according to prison officials.
This is a model example of a solution that works!
KPTV - FOX 12
Since the program began last year, the inmates have helped nine cats get adopted. They also raised six kittens, bottle-feeding them every four hours until the animals could eat solid food.
To work with the cats, the inmates must have a history of good behavior with the Department of Corrections and no violent crimes or animal abuse in their history. The application process also includes an interview with prison staff.
While other prisons have foster programs for dogs, this is the only program involving cats in the Washington State Department of Corrections, according to prison officials.
This is a model example of a solution that works!
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Who Let the Dogs Out?
WHO LET THE DOGS OUT?
by Elizabeth AndradeHallmark Channel--that's who! So what is the commotion about? "The Heart of TV" has aired a segment that shows dogs of different breeds and sizes and their talents! Yes dogs are pretty smart too. (We feral cats warmed up to a dog before we rubbed against the leg of owner who feeds us.)
So what does this have to do with cats? Excellent question! In this episode, Natural Balance followed these famous dogs to Blog Paws--a social media conference for pet bloggers.
What Do We Like in General about Who Let the Dogs Out?
We loved this show as we see two heroes together in action, Snoopy the Therapy Dog, and Tillman the Skateboarding dog dazzling attendees of Blog Paws.
What Did We Enjoy about the Blog Paws part of the Episode?
Our favorite part was the highlight on tripod dogs (dogs with three legs). You see we recently rescued a kitten, named Sophie, that had her leg amputated at two pounds. So four legged, three legged, special needs, and pets of different species (ie. cats, ferrets) are all welcome at BlogPaws.
What Would We Like to Learn at BlogPaws?
We would love to learn basic SEO to more advanced if possible, graphic design, and html coding to tweak or make minor improvements to our blogs...we have a list!
This conference is for anyone with a desire to write about pets and animals. Whether you want to start a humorous blog covering the antics of your ferret, or you're a trainer that can help pet owners with a host of pet behavior issues, or a nonprofit animal rescue that recognizes the power of social media to help with fundraising and finding permanent homes for dogs and cats...this is the conference for you!
See you at Blog Paws 2013!
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Love Saves the Day
It's finally here! "Love Saves the Day", the second cat book by New York Times bestseller Gwen Cooper and author of the memoir "Homer's Odyssey: A Fearless Feline Tale, or How I Learned About Love and Life with a Blind Wonder Cat". Christine reviewed the latter book years ago which inspired her to champion for black and disabled cats. Hence our black cat logo and the Black Cat gala. Today we received an email from Gwen Cooper asking us to share the news of her latest book release with all of you, to keep educating and uplifting the world with cat love! See the video below for a preview.
ABOUT THE BOOK
News of this book release is music to our ears. As a nonprofit for cats, we often receive calls from individuals who are trying to find a home for a pet cat that once belonged to a deceased parent. Often the son or daughter or relative state that they can not keep the cat. "We just can't" or "It would not work in our household because of the dogs..." Excuses pile on. We encourage the person to give it a chance and ease their mind by offering some tips and guidance for bringing in a new cat.We are so excited about this book and highly recommend it to any person who has taken in a cat from a parent or friend who passed away. "Love Saves the Day" is a story of hope, healing, and how the love of an animal can make all of us better humans. There's a wealth of scientific evidence that shows that cats and dogs and other pets make us better humans.
It’s the story of a mother and daughter divided by the turmoil of bohemian New York, and the opinionated, irrepressible feline who will become the bridge between them. It’s a novel for anyone who’s ever lost a loved one, wondered what their cat was really thinking, or fallen asleep with a purring feline nestled in their arms. Prudence, a cat like no other, is sure to steal your heart.
ORDER from AMAZON and help Riverfront Cats
Order your copy now of Love Saves the Day from Amazon and Riverfront Cats receives a small percentage*.
Let's keep educating the world about the unique essence and personality of cats.
*Riverfront Cats receives a small percentage of every Amazon purchase from this website an affiliate of Amazon. Neither Amazon nor Gwen Cooper or Random House Publishing directly endorse the activities of Riverfront Cats/Pawsitively Humane,Inc.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Henry & Hobart the famous duo...
Henry & Hobart
Kittens for Adoption
Introducing Henry & Hobart!While they're not the next Batman & Robin fighting crime in Gotham Miami, or Penn & Teller- dismembering and putting together a lovely human, blonde volunteer in a magic show... Henry & Hobart are famous--or will be famous as the famous snugglers! Not smugglers silly. It's snugglers with an "N".
Nuzzle, nuzzle, wet nose, droopy eyes...they have their act together and will melt your heart!
These two brothers were rescued at 3 months of age in October 2012.
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| Henry at 3 months |
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| Hobart at 3 months |
Both kittens love to be held, purr like little motors, and give kisses. Super sweet. Right on time for Valentine's! Light blue blankie included!
To meet Henry & Hobart, contact foster mother Christina at cdm1580@bellsouth.net or. 305-338-4534 (Miami, FL).
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Our Resolution is Not to Lose Weight!
A Review of 2012, Hope for 2013
The ball has dropped, the fireworks are bursting in the air, the clinking of glasses, the hugging and kissing and well wishes encircle the globe like a giant wave. It lasts only minutes. Then suddenly we return to routines, the daily grind and the dreaded.....Resolutions! What's our resolution? Well, it's definitely not to lose weight. That would be too easy!Before we share our resolution at Riverfront Cats, first we reflect on the past year. The reality is the mountain soars high and along the way naysayers dart out attempting to knock you down, coming from all sides like in a video game. But we don't have a console with laser beam to zap them instantly. Often in the rescue and pet education world there are bitter battles and tragic times. Some people will say "why bother?". Then we are reminded of a saying:
When the world says, "Give up,"
Hope whispers, "Try it one more time."
~Author Unknown
So we try it one more day, one more week, one more year. It's all worth it. A dying kitten is nursed to health, an abandoned cat is rescued and placed in a new home. It may not be thousands, but we made a difference!
A weekly routine consists of walking outside, feeding and checking on the Riverfront Cats and other community cats, trapping new cats, rescuing kittens, shuttling back and forth to vet clinics, attending all-day adoption events, answering daily phone calls, visiting potential adopters, writing, blogging and leveraging social media...below are some lows and highs that stand out in 2012. And along the way we try to have some fun.
January 2012
Christine learned about the Loews Hotel cat crisis in Orlando December of last year and announced it January of this year. Christine was amazed at the immediate response and instant unification and support from cat bloggers and cat lovers around the country. These were complete strangers who came together for a common good. While cat advocates may have lost the battle to keep the cats at their "home", we kept moving forward and never gave up. We turned to Plan B. Heroes like CARE Feline TNR (an organization in Orlando) painstakingly rescued the cats from the kill-shelter and relocated them to new "adoptive" backyard homes. Relocation is a risky process. Some run away. Thankfully most of the Loews Hotel cats have accepted their new homes.You can follow their stories at www.facebook.com/SaveLoewsCats.
Spring 2012
Several new cats were discovered here at the Riverfront Cat site. Two were clearly dumped (it is illegal to relocate any cat--pets or strays), others were strays. The two strays were very ill and one losing his eyesight. Both feral. Both had to be put to sleep. Others like Charlie, while initially skiddish, warmed up to us. Fanny, another dumpee, we discovered was spayed as evidenced by her ear tip. She also appears tame. But we are still waiting for a volunteer to take her inside to socialize her. Her chocolate milk mustache is so endearing.
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| Fanny is extremely clean and tame for an outdoor cat. We would love to bring her indoors and socialize her |
June 2012
Attending conferences like Blog Paws introduced new ideas and opportunities to raise awareness for homeless cats and pets.Christine was thrilled to meet some famous Cat Ladies and start writing for Pet360.com, a national pet website aimed to help pet parents.
August 2012
Charlie was fostered and adopted by Nina, one of our volunteer caretakers. A big HIGH. Then Nina and Charlie moved to the Middle East. This was a huge loss as dedicated volunteers like Nina are rare. But the silver lining is that Nina and Felipe are model examples of pet parenting and planning. Charlie was now their pet, a lifetime commitment and they went to great lengths to finalize travel arrangements for his safe transport to the United Arab Emirates. Nina and Felipe spent close to $2,000 for customs, airfare and cattery fees. There was no question. It had to be done. Now we enjoy following the adventures of Charlie and his big move to Abu Dhabi. This is a peak high and a story we will continue to spotlight.
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| Nina gives Charlie a kiss |
October 2012
Christine receives a call about a kitten with a bad leg residing up the Miami River. Little Sophie dragged a leg out of hip socket. She bravely underwent a first surgery weighing one pound in an attempt to save the leg and a second surgery to amputate her hind leg, weighing only two pounds. The vet bill is astronomical and we are still collecting donations to pay off the credit card bill. Thankfully little Sophie is recuperating nicely and has adjusted to her missing leg. Her zooming hops across the room is a match for Speedy Gonzalez and her constant purring is a sign that all is well in the world for this once stray kitten. Another small victory.
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| Sophie post hind leg amputation |
Christine also attended BarkWorld, another pet conference in Atlanta, GA. Here she added to her knowledge of writing and blogging and had a chance to wear cat ears all day long! Even the hotel staff wanted to wear ears. It was a great opportunity to reconnect with fellow bloggers and have a rare moment of fun!(Note: Christine paid for the trip with her personal funds).
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| Deb Barnes, hotel staffer, Christine, and Debbie Glovatsky |
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| Ingrid King, Deb Barnes, Christine Michaels |
December 2012
The new cat feeding stations we installed in October suddenly disappeared on Christmas. Our hearts were broken. This was not the way to end a year. However just days later...
Figaro & Luciano were adopted! Kittens grow up fast and it's very hard to find homes for them beyond five or six months. Both brothers were adopted together by a loving family in Hialeah.
Other milestone:
At Riverfront Cats our specialty and passions are feral cats and black cats--the most misunderstood of the cat family. Adult black cats are the most difficult to find homes for. Therefore we are thrilled to report that several adult black cats were adopted. Tiffany, Evie, Peter Peter, and Sweetie & Berrie.
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| Evie adopted at 3 years old |
What We Need, What We Hope For in 2013
and it's not losing weight!
While the negative may outweigh the positives in our daily struggles, these words come to mind:
Once you choose hope, anything's possible. ~Christopher Reeve
At Riverfront Cats, we choose hope!
Like all nonprofits, Riverfront Cats requires the usual donations of funds and cat food and supplies. But what we really need is human capital. Not much. Just an hour a week. Yet finding volunteers has been our biggest challenge, more difficult than collecting donations or losing weight! It's true! We have hope. Here is our wish list for 2013:
- Writer- an eloquent, strong writer to write posts for our big brother blog site www.pawsitivelyhumane.org. Education is the key to reversing the trend of homeless pets of both dogs and cats. Both educational and humorous content is our goal for balance. A weekly post is all we need.
- Graphic Designer--If you take an average photograph and tweak the coloring, the shades, add some clip art, a catchy phrase or title, one can attract more readers, more followers to learn about cats, take an interest in cats, adopt or foster cats, and spread the word about cats. This is our biggest need of all.
- Excellent Photographer--Cats are mystical, exotic creatures. Their expressions and body language speak volumes. A photographer will help capture the essence of cats and carry it over into our communications, marketing and education efforts and to teach "cat".
- Foster parents--this job is more demanding but also very rewarding. Whether you like dogs or cats, or both, foster parents are needed to save healthy pets from being dropped off at county shelter and euthanized.
- Moral support--this is easy. In the world of rescue and education, the obstacles are exceedingly high, frustrations mounting that it's easy to feel defeated. The biggest boost and what keeps us going daily, are your thoughtful comments. Please continue to leave comments on this blog (you can register to the right), on our Facebook page and Twitter. Your encouraging comments uplift our deflated spirits in difficult times. We could not do this without your moral support!
Here's a to a brighter 2013!
Friday, January 4, 2013
Architects for Animals
At Riverfront Cats we specialize in feral cats. We find them (or they find us), feed them, get them spayed/neutered/vaccinated, shower them with attention and affection, and when possible provide cat houses. One of our goals is to build more cat feeding stations for the rainy season. Why not? Feral cats are cats too! They are the neighborhood pets and deserve to live humanely. Sadly our two new stations were taken this past Christmas. But this story gives us hope for something bigger and better this New Year!
In New York City, a city of forward-thinking ideas, animal lovers and architects are coming together for the
It's a feral cat initiative. How brilliant! You too can help cats in this innovative event. Read on!
For the past three years, some of New York’s most prestigious architectural designers, through an inventive project called Architects for Animals, have been helping these cats by creating imaginative winter shelters to provide feral cats with a refuge from the bitter cold. A new collection of unique, inspired Architects for Animals winter shelters will be displayed for public viewing before they are placed in locations throughout the city to provide comfort for the cats. Just look at the range of creativity in the photos below (taken at the December 2010 and 2011 event).
Doesn't this "Cat SH3LTER" look like an indestructible bunker? Winters can be brutal up north.
This is one of our favorites. I wonder if the architect is simulating a tree with cubby hole? Cats love to perch. Genius!
This one is the white house with moat, bridge, columns, birds and a Christmas tree!
We'll take two sunshine yellow cat houses please. Do you see those tire wheel feeding bowls? Love them! We feed our cats on empty lots. Those would tie in nicely with loose car parts and other empty lot accessories.
No home is complete without yarnball.
And the big daddy of them all--rocket boosters. At least that's what it remind me of. Now I can envision those around my hometown near the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
This year’s participating architectural firms include industry giants H3 Hardy Collaborative Architecture; Francis Cauffman Architects; M Moser Associates; Callison Barteluce; Stonehill & Taylor Architects, with a team of students from City College; Zimmerman Workshop; Kathryn Walton of The American Street Cat (TASC); and Pilot Projects Design Collective, to name a few. At the end of the evening, the shelters will be donated to community cat caretakers around the city.
So head over to the Steelcase Showroom at 4 Columbus Circle on Thursday, January 10 to view the newest collection. Meet the architects, feral cat caretakers, and also the one and only Tamar from I Have Cat! If you can not attend, you can still donate to this great cause by clicking on this link.
Admission is a $20 donation ($10 for Certified TNR Caretakers) and includes the exhibit, hors d’oeuvres, and drinks. You may RSVP in advance online. Be sure to drink a Cat-tini for us!
We welcome ideas and efforts to start a similar program in Miami. Contact us at riverfrontcats@yahoo.com
In New York City, a city of forward-thinking ideas, animal lovers and architects are coming together for the
It's a feral cat initiative. How brilliant! You too can help cats in this innovative event. Read on!
For the past three years, some of New York’s most prestigious architectural designers, through an inventive project called Architects for Animals, have been helping these cats by creating imaginative winter shelters to provide feral cats with a refuge from the bitter cold. A new collection of unique, inspired Architects for Animals winter shelters will be displayed for public viewing before they are placed in locations throughout the city to provide comfort for the cats. Just look at the range of creativity in the photos below (taken at the December 2010 and 2011 event).
Doesn't this "Cat SH3LTER" look like an indestructible bunker? Winters can be brutal up north.
 |
| Photo by Lucio Santos |
This is one of our favorites. I wonder if the architect is simulating a tree with cubby hole? Cats love to perch. Genius!
 |
| Photo by Christine Rangel |
This one is the white house with moat, bridge, columns, birds and a Christmas tree!
 | |||
| Photo by Dana Edelson |
We'll take two sunshine yellow cat houses please. Do you see those tire wheel feeding bowls? Love them! We feed our cats on empty lots. Those would tie in nicely with loose car parts and other empty lot accessories.
 |
| Photo by Dana Edelson |
No home is complete without yarnball.
 |
| Photo provided by MayorsAllianceNYC |
And the big daddy of them all--rocket boosters. At least that's what it remind me of. Now I can envision those around my hometown near the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
 |
| Photo by Lucio Santos |
So which do you like the best?
[Leave a comment below]
This year’s participating architectural firms include industry giants H3 Hardy Collaborative Architecture; Francis Cauffman Architects; M Moser Associates; Callison Barteluce; Stonehill & Taylor Architects, with a team of students from City College; Zimmerman Workshop; Kathryn Walton of The American Street Cat (TASC); and Pilot Projects Design Collective, to name a few. At the end of the evening, the shelters will be donated to community cat caretakers around the city.
So head over to the Steelcase Showroom at 4 Columbus Circle on Thursday, January 10 to view the newest collection. Meet the architects, feral cat caretakers, and also the one and only Tamar from I Have Cat! If you can not attend, you can still donate to this great cause by clicking on this link.
Admission is a $20 donation ($10 for Certified TNR Caretakers) and includes the exhibit, hors d’oeuvres, and drinks. You may RSVP in advance online. Be sure to drink a Cat-tini for us!
We welcome ideas and efforts to start a similar program in Miami. Contact us at riverfrontcats@yahoo.com
 |
| Photo by Dana Edelson |
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