Petmania!

[Brooke]

:hilarious: Too funny Eve!

[TimothyBFan]

Love the pics!!! :thumbsup:

A few weeks ago, we left a beer case that had tipped over next to the trash can in the laundry room there for several days because one of the cats had sat up camp in it and no one had the heart to chase her out and take it out to the recycle bin. We are such suckers for the critters!! :hilarious:

[GlennLover]

Sounds like something that we would do too, Willie. They rule the roost!

[Prettymaid]

TBF, your story reminded me of a picture that I have a of a cat we had named Kipper.
Sadly, we had to have him put to sleep several years ago. But fortunately we have memories like these...

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s348/chilca0001/My%20Cats/kipper013.jpg

[TimothyBFan]

Look at that sweet face! How cute!

[Koala]

Awwww, how cute!

[Prettymaid]

Here is Kipper with Buddy back in 2004.

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s348/chilca0001/My%20Cats/kipperandbuddy.jpg

[tequila girl]

OMG All these pet photo's are soooooo gorgeous - keep em coming Guys, I'm sorry if I don't comment on them all but be assured...I love 'em all! :nod::heart:

[GlennLover]

Tomorrow my cats Sam & Katie have to go for surgery. Sam has a regrowth of one of his claws (he was declawed 10 yrs ago) which he keeps biting & making bleed, so that has to be removed. Katie has a growth inside her mouth to be removed. I'm praying that it isn't cancerous. I worry about my babies.

We had good news yesterday! The vet called to say that the analysis of the growth from inside Katie's mouth came back & it isn't cancer! It isn't even really a growth. It was just an irritation of some kind. The vet was surprised. She said that any kind of growth in a cat's mouth is usually bad news. What I relief!


The vet called a while ago to tell us that she discovered in the pre surgery blood tests that Sam has diabetes. We will discuss how to treat it when we pick him up later today. :-( :worried:

Sam is now on a special food that may decrease his blood sugar levels. We are to try it for a month & then the vet will do another blood test. If his levels aren't down we will have to give him insulin. And he's the only one of our five cats that won't touch any "people" food & has always just eaten his cat food.

[Koala]

We had good news yesterday! The vet called to say that the analysis of the growth from inside Katie's mouth came back & it isn't cancer! It isn't even really a growth. It was just an irritation of some kind. The vet was surprised. She said that any kind of growth in a cat's mouth is usually bad news. What I relief!
This are really good news!


Sam is now on a special food that may decrease his blood sugar levels. We are to try it for a month & then the vet will do another blood test. If his levels aren't down we will have to give him insulin. And he's the only one of our five cats that won't touch any "people" food & has always just eaten his cat food.
Hopefully helps the specially food, thus Sam no insulin needs.

[Ive always been a dreamer]

This thread is great and I'm loving all the pics - too cute!!!

And GL - I'm so glad to hear the good news! I know you must be relieved.

[Brooke]

GL, great news and I hope the new food works for Sam.

[GlennLover]

Thanks, guys!

[Prettymaid]

Ann, I hope the food works too. Giving a cat insulin doesn't sound easy.

[TimothyBFan]

Good luck Ann---hope everything goes well for the poor baby!!

[sodascouts]

GL - so glad to hear there was no cancer! And I have a friend who had a cat with Sam's problem and she was able to control the cat's diabetes with food - here's hoping.

[Troubadour]

Ann - so glad to hear the good news about Katie. Hoping the food works for Sam!

[EaglesFanatic]

I came in my room, and I saw both of my dogs asleep on my bed. It was so cute I just had to get a picture. Unfortunately, I woke them up with the flash
http://i1194.photobucket.com/albums/aa377/asusundevils/Photo212.jpg
Cosmo was resting his head on my pillow.
http://i1194.photobucket.com/albums/aa377/asusundevils/Photo214.jpg
Hazel seems mad that I woke her up lol.
http://i1194.photobucket.com/albums/aa377/asusundevils/Photo213.jpg

[sodascouts]

Awwwwwwww!

[Prettymaid]

Cute little schnauzers! (spelling?)

[Koala]

Awww. Cosmo & Hazel are cute dogs!

[Koala]

Lucky in his new dog basket

http://i567.photobucket.com/albums/ss120/wall_e_2009/dogs/Lucky160111006.jpg?t=1295191934

http://i567.photobucket.com/albums/ss120/wall_e_2009/dogs/Lucky160111007.jpg?t=1295191934

[EaglesFanatic]

Koala, your puppy is sooo cute!

[Prettymaid]

He really seems to like his new bed. He's so cute!

[sodascouts]

The little king of dogs! Too cute!

[GlennLover]

Awwww! Lucky's so sweet, Koala!

[Prettymaid]

These were taken yesterday. Gracie is on the back of the couch, one of their favorite perches, as they can look out the window. But Buddy couldn't resist the comfy quilt!

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s348/chilca0001/My%20Cats/DSC01372.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s348/chilca0001/My%20Cats/DSC01374.jpg

[Brooke]

Awww, how sweet Pm!

Poor Beyonce. She's not allowed on the furniture. She has her favorite corners on the floor and a special shelf in the laundry room window for bird watching.

[Koala]

How cute!

[sodascouts]

Love your pics, PM! My cat is also allowed on the furniture. In fact, the only places he's not allowed are the kitchen counters and table!

[Prettymaid]

I understand why people don't want their pets on the furniture. The fur is a chore to deal with. However, I decided a long time ago that I wasn't going to prevent my cats from being on the couch and chairs. Like Soda though, I draw the line at the countertops and table.

BTW, if there is anyone who does not have one of these Pledge Fabric Sweeper doodads yet, go out and buy one immediately!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVQZl83H2EM

[Brooke]

I've seen that thingy. I use a lint roller and it works really well. Even though Beyonce can't get on the furniture she is constantly rubbing herself against it and there it is!

[Koala]

I understand why people don't want their pets on the furniture too.
Actually, Lucky also didn't have to go on the furniture but someone has aloud him to sit one on the sofa & chair and now these are his favorite places. BUT in the beds is not allowed!

[Prettymaid]

My cats have always been allowed on the bed. Hubby draws a line though, and they have to stay on the bottom half of the bed. Now I wish I hadn't allowed it because Buddy likes to sleep in the crook of my leg and I sometimes wake up with hip or knee pain. It definitely affects my quality of sleep.

(I've always had trouble with the difference between affects and effects!)

[TimothyBFan]

My animals are undisciplined, spoiled, selfish, pampered, untrainable....critters. :brickwall: They are allowed anywhere and trust me when I say they are EVERYWHERE! I try my best to keep the cats from the table and counters but must admit it is a lost cause most of the time and therefore, Clorox wipes are my best friends. As far as sleeping-Rufus is always in bed with us and sleeps right between us and we usually have at least 2 cats in bed also. Saturday morning, hubby got up early to go ice fishing with his friend and I went back to sleep. When I woke a couple hours later, I couldn't move-had a cat on each side of me, a dog in my back, a cat between my legs and another dog laying on hubby's pillow. Thank goodness for a king size bed.

[tequila girl]

Hehe That's what it used to be like in my house too Willie :thumbsup: sadly now I only have Charlie.........I do miss the dogs and cats though :-(

[Annabel]

My animals are undisciplined, spoiled, selfish, pampered, untrainable....critters. :brickwall: They are allowed anywhere and trust me when I say they are EVERYWHERE! I try my best to keep the cats from the table and counters but must admit it is a lost cause most of the time and therefore, Clorox wipes are my best friends. As far as sleeping-Rufus is always in bed with us and sleeps right between us and we usually have at least 2 cats in bed also. Saturday morning, hubby got up early to go ice fishing with his friend and I went back to sleep. When I woke a couple hours later, I couldn't move-had a cat on each side of me, a dog in my back, a cat between my legs and another dog laying on hubby's pillow. Thank goodness for a king size bed.

Sorry TBF but :hilarious: :hilarious: That had me laughing out loud. We have 2 rabbits, just one guinea pig now and a dog, Boxer, here. Totty the Boxer had a sofa most of the day and night. The rest are in hutches unless it is really coldoutside then they come into the house. :eyebrow: At least they all get on and Tots doesn't chase them. I'll add some pics later so you can see the tribe.

[WalshFan88]

Great pets everyone!

Gibson:

http://i52.tinypic.com/2a69p2o.jpg

[Prettymaid]

Hi Gibby! He's so adorable!

[Brooke]

Very cute!

[Annabel]

Gibson is adorable :)

[sodascouts]

So cute!

[sodascouts]

Some of you guys may have seen this video already - it was released by Fatboy Slim several years ago - but I just saw it tonight. It's freaking ADORABLE! Steve Miller Band fans should love it (or hate it). ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdqvvRs9zUw

[WalshFan88]

Thanks everyone. Gibson is a 6 month old Boxer puppy. Soooo mischievous.

[Prettymaid]

Lol Nancy! My cats would never sit still for those little hats!

[Brooke]

:hilarious: LOVE it! How cute!

[EagleLady]

Bella's so cute!

[GlennLover]

Bella is "bella"!

[EaglesFanatic]

Aw Eve, Bella is adorable!

[Koala]

Eve, Bella is so cute!

[Annabel]

Thanks everyone. Gibson is a 6 month old Boxer puppy. Soooo mischievous.

Being on our 2nd Boxer, you have my sympathies .......... for any of your losses. :laugh: Our first Boxer ate all sorts when she was left alone whilst I went to work. DH was in the navy in those days so it was okay if he was home. Amongst the list, we lost a videa camera, my wedding shoes (just 2 days before the wedding :dizzy:) and numerous other items.
Our current girl we got at 7 months old and although I was no longer working because of the kids she did have to occasional lapse if left slightly too long The 2 girls learnt not to leave Bratz dolls out or any other toy they really liked. ;) Eventually we got Tots a dog crate as she was used to one from her previous home at the breeders. Magic. We didn't go through the teenage years with her at all. :yay: She is now nearly 5 1/2 years old and is gorgeous. (except at 6 in the morning when she shoves her gooey chops into your face as you sleep. :rolleyes: Her idea of a wake up call)

[Brooke]

Ick!

Bella is a cutie, Eve!

[Prettymaid]

Eve, I guess that answers the question as to whether you let Bella on the countertop. Lol! Good picture!

[Prettymaid]

Water spray bottles are a cat owner's best friend, especially when the cat is young and doesn't know "the rules". Another tip (if you don't want water on everything!) is a can of air. They don't like that. ;)

[Annabel]

Here at last are my family's animals

Totty (aka Tots or Woo) the Boxer

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n242/Mellie1961/DSC06733.jpg

Smudge (B & W English spot) and Leon (Brown dwarf lionhead) rabbits

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n242/Mellie1961/DSC07859.jpg

Cindy (aka Pig) guinea pig

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n242/Mellie1961/DSC06948.jpg

[GlennLover]

Annabel, your pets are adorable!

I tried the water bottle thing on Lucky the first Christmas that we had him. It didn't work. All I got was one very wet cat! :)

This is Lucky lying in the sun http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss232/1Cdn/Babes/ImportedPhotos00002.jpg

[Brooke]

Awwwww, how cute!

[Prettymaid]

Annabel, Totty is so cute! So are your rabbits, but please tell me their eyes aren't really red like that! (It's kind of creeping me out!)

Sorry, I can't go as far as to say thay Cindy is cute, but I'll bet she's a good little pig!

GL, I love the way Lucky is laying - so cute!

[sodascouts]

Love these photos. We're a pet-friendly crowd! ;)

[Koala]

Love all those photos, all are so cute!

[WalshFan88]

Being on our 2nd Boxer, you have my sympathies .......... for any of your losses. :laugh: Our first Boxer ate all sorts when she was left alone whilst I went to work. DH was in the navy in those days so it was okay if he was home. Amongst the list, we lost a videa camera, my wedding shoes (just 2 days before the wedding :dizzy:) and numerous other items.
Our current girl we got at 7 months old and although I was no longer working because of the kids she did have to occasional lapse if left slightly too long The 2 girls learnt not to leave Bratz dolls out or any other toy they really liked. ;) Eventually we got Tots a dog crate as she was used to one from her previous home at the breeders. Magic. We didn't go through the teenage years with her at all. :yay: She is now nearly 5 1/2 years old and is gorgeous. (except at 6 in the morning when she shoves her gooey chops into your face as you sleep. :rolleyes: Her idea of a wake up call)

Oh yeah, we've lost TV remotes, shoes, etc. He stays in a crate when no one is home and we keep all of the doors to each room shut when he is out and we basically only let him in the living room and that's with supervision. He is very, very mischievous. If you don't hear him and it's all quiet, you best be looking for him and seeing what he is doing because chances are that he is up to something. He is like a little kid. In to everything. :rofl:

[Annabel]

Thanks all. :xoxo:

:rofl: Austin wait for the teenage years. :dizzy: They do grow out of it though. :razz:

PM, No they have dark eyes they just usually show up red when we take photos of them. Even I agree that Cindy isn't cute in her looks and she has always been a feisty thing, but she has actually grown cute to us in her own way. When my daughter chose her I was amazed all those pretty guinea pigs and she came home with a baby capybara :laugh:

GL, Lucky looks so cute in your photo. :)

[Prettymaid]

Aw, cute Eve. Looks just like my Buddy.

[sodascouts]

That close-up is great. What a beautiful cat.

[GlennLover]

Yes, he certainly is beautiful!

[Koala]

Eve, what a cute cat!

[Annabel]

Lovely cat :partytime:

[Brooke]

Beamer is very cute!

[sodascouts]

What happens when you let spoiled kitties onto the computer desk!

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/glennfreyonline/misc/e8cb4198.jpg

"I'm sorry, Milton, I have to move my hand to click the mouse."

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/glennfreyonline/misc/65fcc0f9.jpg

Milton does not appreciate this.

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/glennfreyonline/misc/3f6466d6.jpg

Spoiled indeed - but you gotta love him!

[tequila girl]

Awwww :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

[Prettymaid]

Milton is such a cutie. Your pictures remind me of this old one of Buddy...

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s348/chilca0001/My%20Cats/Buddy001.jpg

[TimothyBFan]

I just took and posted this one on my Facebook Friday. It's taken with the Webcam while I was trying to work on my computer. Ringo has to park his 18 lb body between me and the screen which means 3/4rs of his body is always on the keyboard.http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e136/williehoo/168029_1636470664191_1009445053_31323688_6290946_n .jpg

[Koala]

Awww, love all this cute cat photos!

[Brooke]

Awwww, Milton looks so soft and cute! And of course Buddie and Ringo are adorable, too!

Made me smile! Thanks!

[GlennLover]

Milton, Buddy & Ringo are so cute. They love to come between you & the computer. I have the same problem with mine, especially Lucky & Copper.I guess that they don't like you paying attention to the screen & not to them. When I have my laptop on my lap they try to lie on my chest so that I can't see the screen.

[tequila girl]

I love all your gorgeous cats! :inlove: they do like to sit in the strangest places, don't they! :hilarious: my nieces cat likes to sit in handbags......or the wash basin in the bathroom

[tequila girl]

Charlie tonight........deciding what to have for dinner :roll:

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/carolwayne/charlie/IMGP2651.jpg

[tequila girl]

Yep, Sweetcorn - his favourite! :laugh: :laugh:

[sodascouts]

Smart bird! lol

[Koala]

Charlie tonight........deciding what to have for dinner :roll:


LOL! Great pic!

[TimothyBFan]

Gotta tell ya Carole, I've never been a bird person, they've always kinda freaked me out with the whole idea of them in the house. But since you have told us and posted pics of yours, I would actually consider it. They seem to have such personalities.

[Brooke]

Willie, I'm sure your cats would love a bird or two around! :shock: :hilarious:

[tequila girl]

Gotta tell ya Carole, I've never been a bird person, they've always kinda freaked me out with the whole idea of them in the house. But since you have told us and posted pics of yours, I would actually consider it. They seem to have such personalities.
Hehe I know what you mean Willie.....but Charlie is a great little character - he talks to me (when he's in the mood) makes me laugh every day with his antics and funny little ways and they're said to have the intelligence of a 4-5 year old child.........

[Troubadour]

All of these photos are adorable! I am longing for a dog right now. I went dog-walking with one of the service users at work, and we took a gorgeous Black Lab called Daisy out for a long stroll. She was beautiful and it was lovely having company on a rural walk like that.

[Troubadour]

That DOES look pretty comfy!

[TimothyBFan]

This is how Pickles spent the blizzard of 2011. He loves the snow and we kept bringing him back in then he'd want out again 15 minutes later. Hubby snow blowed him paths around the yard since he's vertically challenged. :laugh:
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e136/williehoo/PicklesBlizzard2011.jpg

This is how Rufus spent the blizzard of 2011. Umm--yeah--he's a bit spoiled and a big sissy--and he's the dog that's part husky! We're not sure what part. :laugh:
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e136/williehoo/Rufusblizzard2011.jpg

[Prettymaid]

Spoiled is right! Who put that blanket over him? :hmm: :laugh:

[TimothyBFan]

Going on the record right now and saying it WASN'T me!! It was the one that brought him home and your remember that wasn't we either! The man who swore he didn't like animals. :doh: Yeah--right!

[Prettymaid]

Mean squirrels are teasing poor Gracie! :laugh:

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s348/chilca0001/My%20Cats/DSC01385.jpg

[TimothyBFan]

She's thinking "let me out Mom, I'll show them!!" :laugh:

[Brooke]

:lol: Cute pics!

[Annabel]

:laugh: My Boxer would love to go and chase them too. She has fun in the woods here with the squirrels. No Boxers can't jump up trees BTW. :rolleyes:

[sodascouts]

My Milton is a "scaredy-cat." If he see a squirrel at the window, he watches from a safe distance!

[Annabel]

:laugh: Bless.

[GlennLover]

They're all so precious!

[Eve]

They're all so precious!

What is so funny is she will be in the middle of HIS pillow! And he will, as he is now, lay on the floor next to it. If I tell him to get up and sit on his pillow, he will carefully lay down next to her. But she won't budge.

[GlennLover]

What is so funny is she will be in the middle of HIS pillow! And he will, as he is now, lay on the floor next to it. If I tell him to get up and sit on his pillow, he will carefully lay down next to her. But she won't budge.

LOL! Typical feline. Our Katie will be sound asleep in "her" chair & nothing wakes her up, even when Lucky (her "bud") jumps up beside her & lays practically on top of her. Other times she will sit in front of the linen closet, staring at the door until we open it & up she jumps, right onto the towels. If we aren't paying attention to her when she's sitting there staring, she lets out little squeaks. She will sleep in there for hours. We've shut the door on her many times by mistake, but she still stays in there, dead to the world.

Katie (left) & Lucky (right)

http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss232/1Cdn/Babes/ImportedPhotos00044.jpg

Lucky (left) & Katie (right)

http://i579.photobucket.com/albums/ss232/1Cdn/Babes/ImportedPhotos00042.jpg

[Koala]

Awww, love all the new photos!

GL, love the name Lucky from your cat, it's a very good one for a pet! :wink:

[WalshFan88]

:laugh: My Boxer would love to go and chase them too. She has fun in the woods here with the squirrels. No Boxers can't jump up trees BTW. :rolleyes:

Ours loves to chase "stuff".

He gets neutered next month... He'll really be happy about that. :hilarious: It's suppose to make him less hyper and crazy... But I'll believe it when I see it ;)

[GlennLover]

Awww, love all the new photos!

GL, love the name Lucky from your cat, it's a very good one for a pet! :wink:

Koala, we found him under our shed when he was one month old. We named him Lucky because he was lucky that we found him & we were lucky that he found us :).

[Annabel]

Ours loves to chase "stuff".

He gets neutered next month... He'll really be happy about that. :hilarious: It's suppose to make him less hyper and crazy... But I'll believe it when I see it ;)

Erm, Austin. Don't believe all you hear :hilarious: Our last Boxer was 11 when we lost her and she was still as playful at that age as she was when a pup. Oh well he'll be calmer the day he's done, (hen back to normal. ;))

[Brooke]

Awwww, so sweet!

[GlennLover]

LOL! I'm glad mine are indoor cats. I've heard many cat owners mention these "presents"!

[tequila girl]

Heheh that's great Eve....have you seen the "Simon's cat" animations on You tube? I think there are 4 or 5 Sooooo funny!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0ffwDYo00Q

[Eve]

That is hilarious! I'll have to find them all now! Cats...Although several years ago when Shadow slept outside, my daughter went to let him in that morning and she saw he had something in his mouth. Not unusual for him. She grabbed his mouth and tried to get him to drop it thinking it was a stick or wet toy. It was the back end of a tail-less squirrel. I have never heard screams like that. The other half was in the yard. He didn't kill it, but he found himself a nice toy.

[GlennLover]

LOL! So funny, but so true! I experienced some of that treatment this morning. I endured it for a little while then had to give in & get up. Those little paws hurt!

BTW, Katie was wondering where the cat was when I was playing this clip!

[tequila girl]

Hehe There's been quite a few added since I last looked (probably a couple of years ago!) :hilarious:

[Brooke]

Lol! Those are cute!

[tequila girl]

Eva, Willie, Cathy & Ann......I'm sorry that I didn't comment on Bella, Pickles & Rufus, Gracie and Katie & lucky...they are all gorgeous, and i'm sure i've said it before - but I really miss not having cats & dogs in my life at the moment :-( maybe some day when I feel more settled :worried:

[Troubadour]

I posted in the What's Happening thread the other day about wanting to adopt a cat, but I thought I'd move it over to this, more appropriate, thread! I got in touch with our local Cats Protection League today and a very nice lady phoned back a little while later. She said that she has one particular cat that urgently needs a home. Maisie is around 7 years old (to their best estimations) and she has FIV, though she appears healthy at the moment. At her most recent check-up, the vet said she seems fine and is showing no symptoms at the moment. Because of the nature of FIV though, she has to be an indoor cat (which is perfect for me, because I'm in a first-floor flat), and she cannot be around other cats. There is no local shelter, the Cats Protection League volunteers act as fosterers until they find new homes and the volunteer that is looking after Maisie cannot take in any more strays, because of Maisie having FIV. So basically, the lady said they would be incredibly grateful if we were able to offer Maisie a secure home.

She is a grey tortie, and she is apparently very settled, calm and loving. I had reservations about her medical conditions, but only because of the potential cost due to her weakened immune system... Secondary infections have to be acted upon quite quickly. Having said that, apparently FIV cats can live for a long time, without showing any real symptoms and without having a dramatically decreased lifespan. And the CPL said that, because it's a pre-existing condition, they would support us to pay for any future operations.

There are obviously concerns there (both the money factor, and the emotional side of things), but I feel that I would really like to give Maisie a good home - for however long she has left. It could be a shorter time span, or it could be years... We are visiting her tomorrow morning, so hopefully a decision will be made then.

We are also visiting another "urgent" case afterwards - but I have a feeling Maisie will be the one, because of the fact that they are eager, not only to give her a good home, but also to continue to do their job and take in as many strays and sick cats as they can.

I'll tell you what - tonight has been a bit emotional already! But I am excited about visiting the cats tomorrow, and even more set on getting one and ensuring one of them has a safe, warm, loving environment for the rest of her life. There are so many that need homes, it breaks my heart.

I will update again tomorrow and let you know of any further developments. In the meantime, any input from you pet-lovers out there would be great - anyone with experience of cats with FIV? We can ask the CPL all the questions we want, but I know many of you guys have had cats for years, and anecdotal information can be particularly valuable. Otherwise, your support would be great!

[tequila girl]

Awww It's wonderful of you to even think of giving Maisie a home Troub, I don't know much about FIV so can't help much there but like you said she could live for many more years (quite happily) in your care and how rewarding would that be? Go for it!! :thumbsup:

[WalshFan88]

Erm, Austin. Don't believe all you hear :hilarious: Our last Boxer was 11 when we lost her and she was still as playful at that age as she was when a pup. Oh well he'll be calmer the day he's done, (hen back to normal. ;))

Yeah I know it won't be a huge change but the vet thinks it will make him calmer and less of a dominance issue with the other dogs and it's supposed to be healthier.

[sodascouts]

I admire you so much, Troub. You have such a generous heart! I don't have any advice about FIV, I'm afraid, but it's wonderful of you to give this poor cat a loving home for the rest of her life.

[Troubadour]

Thank you guys for your sweet words. We went to visit Maisie this morning... and didn't even visit the second cat, because we knew we wanted Maisie! (We couldn't take both and it would have been horrible to view the second, knowing we could only take one.) Maisie is adorable. She is about 7 or 8 and she is grey with the most gorgeous green eyes. She is so pretty! She is very calm, the lady said she can be a little shy at first, but she didn't seem at all nervous - she nuzzled into my hand constantly, and loved all of the attention. She doesn't have many teeth, bless her, but that doesn't cause her any problems food-wise or otherwise. Her last home apparently wasn't the best. She was looking into my eyes as she was rubbing against my hand and purring, and I just fell in love with her!

The ladies at the Cats Protection League are so grateful that she will be given a good home, that they are going to waive the adoption fees (although we will make a donation.) We can also have her bed and her toys, so that obviously means less initial expense for us, and more familiarity for Maisie, which is great. The lady is going to give us a call to let us know exactly when, but they will bring her over sometime from Monday. She also reassured us that the CPL would pay for any future big treatments to do with her condition, and that they would always be on the end of the phone to support us. I am really happy because I know that we can offer Maisie a loving, warm, safe and quiet home. I also know that, despite her problems, she will enrich my life a huge amount. Let's hope she is one of the FIV cats who lives a lengthy, relatively healthy life... although we will be here for her either way.

I can't wait for her to arrive and to post the first pictures for all of you to see!

[tequila girl]

Awww That's great news Lou!..can't wait to see the pics of Maisie, she sounds adorable..:thumbsup:

[TimothyBFan]

Troub-as soon as I read your text, I had to pop in here real quick to see what you had found out. I am so happy for you and Maisie!!! I know you will give her a wonderfully loving home and Maisie, in return, will give you unconditional love and gratitude for taking care of her despite her health issues. Many people will adopt but many would also hesitate to take on an animal with health issues. In our experience, and we've had many, they are usually the best animals--it's almost as if they know that you've saved their lives and are so very grateful for it!

Looking so forward to hearing about her homecoming and seeing the first pictures!! Congratulations on your new family member!!! :hug:

[Brooke]

Troub, that is very sweet and kind of you to adopt Maisie. I'm sure you two will have a wonderful relationship. Good luck!

[Troubadour]

Thanks so much! :hug: It's official - Maisie will be arriving on Monday afternoon. I can't wait!

[EaglesFanatic]

Troub, that's great of you to adopt Maisie. I'm really happy for you! Looking forward to seeing some pictures :thumbsup:

[GlennLover]

So glad that you are able to give Maisie a good home! I'm sure she will enrich your life. Ours certainly do!I know what the anticipation of waiting for your new family member is like, but Monday will come soon enough. Sounds like she will easily settle in ith you.

[Troubadour]

Thanks, Ann - I hope so!

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Good for you, Troub and Maisie is one lucky cat. I wish her the best for a long healthy life.

[Prettymaid]

Lou, I'm so happy for you. You did your homework and now not only are you going to have a loving addition to your family but you are giving Maisie a stable home for the rest of her life. It's a win/win!

[Koala]

I'm really happy for you! I'm sure Maisie gets a very good home!

[Prettymaid]

I'm checking in here this a.m. because I am so anxious to hear about Maisie's homecoming. Hope everything is going smoothly. Will check again when I'm home for lunch.

[Troubadour]

Aw, that's so sweet of you, Cathy!

Well... Maisie arrived about an hour and a half ago... She was very inquisitive, looking around the place, but came to us immediately and let us stroke her. The Cats Protection lady had thought she'd be shy, but she wasn't really. (She's just been on my lap for the past 20 minutes, purring and napping!) She is such a sweetie.

Meet Maisie!

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie4.jpg

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie2.jpg

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie1.jpg

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie3.jpg

This was her a few minutes ago on me:

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie5.jpg

Yeah... I don't think she's going to have any problems settling in!!

[EagleLady]

Awwwww Maisie is so precious. You are such a sweetheart Louise.

[jdubfan]

:yay::yay::yay:

Wonderful for all of you!

[sodascouts]

Oh my gosh - adorable! What a precious baby. I know you two will be very happy together.

[TimothyBFan]

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie5.jpg



A picture is worth a 1000 words and this one says it all!! Congrats!! She is beautiful!!

[Molly]

Awww, I don't know who to be happier for, your family or Maisie! Looks like the love affair has begun!

[tequila girl]

Aww she's adorable Lou...and looks like she's made herself right at home, i'm sure you'll all be very happy together! :nod: :-) :smile:

[Annabel]

Lovely photos Lou. Maisie seems to have made herself nicely at home. I hope you are all very happy together. :)

[Prettymaid]

Just home for lunch and had to check here...

Hello Maisie!

She's such a sweetie! And I see you've decided to let her on the furniture. ;)

[EaglesFanatic]

Aw such great pictures. I'm sure you and Maisie will be very happy together!!

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Troub - Maisie is precious. She is lucky that you found her and I can tell that you and she have already got some 'bonding' going on. :thumbsup:

[Koala]

Welcome Maisie! What a sweet cat!
It looks as if she already feel very comfortable with you and you with her!

[MikeA]

I saw this yesterday Lou but got distracted (work phone call) and forgot to reply to it.

I"M HAPPY FOR YOU! It does look like a good match. It is quite comforting having a purring lap full of CAT. That's wasn't meant to be a sarcastic remark.

[Troubadour]

Thank you all! She seems even more settled today - she loves the contact with us, but she is also happy to just curl up next to me and sleep. She hasn't touched her bed or her scratching post! She's got a blanket on the sofa next to me and that seems to be "Maisie's spot".

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie6.jpg

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie7.jpg

The only thing that concerns me slightly is that she doesn't really seem to be eating much. The CPL lady said that she doesn't eat too much anyway, and she DID have some of her wet cat food last night - with some encouragement - but I haven't seen her have any water or biscuits, or go in her litter tray. (She hasn't gone to toilet anywhere else - we've checked!) We'll obviously try to monitor what she does eat/drink... A couple of times she went into the kitchen and meowed at us, like she wanted something else. I don't know what it could be, though, unless she wants to go out. (She isn't allowed to go out because of her condition.) I just hate not knowing what she wants! Having said that, she is purring lots and sleeping easily and interacting with us well... so I guess she can't be starving or too unhappy!

I think it's just me worrying, as a new owner... she has everything she needs right here.

[Annabel]

I think she's staying Lou :thumbsup: :laugh:

A crafting friend of mine posted this video on our craft forum and I thought I'd share it here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdaVzVlF69Y

[Troubadour]

Oh, that is so cute! I love the paws over the eyes!

[Prettymaid]

I wouldn't worry too much yet Lou. It is a new environment for her. But I hope she starts drinking soon.

BTW, she sheds quite a bit, I see. So does my Gracie. Maisie's got a beautiful coat. I'll bet she likes to be brushed or combed.

[Brooke]

Lou, Maisie looks very happy and content. What a sweetie! I'm sure she will eat and drink when she feels like it. Looks like a happy union for you two!

My Beyonce has been taking meds for urinary tract infection and is on special dry food. She doesn't like it and meows all the time for something else, but the vet said she had to eat the whole bag before she can go back to other food. She's not very happy. She has now discovered Fishsticks food and tries to get it. I guess we are going to have to keep them separated until she finishes her food. They are tolerating each other now, but at a distance!

[Troubadour]

Thanks, guys. Maisie has eaten some more of the wet food today, so that's good. I'm sure she will eat more and drink in her own time. (And probably when we're not around!) She's going to the vets for shots on Thursday anyway, so at least we can ask any questions and raise any potential concerns then. Otherwise, she's fast asleep on the sofa, looking extremely comfortable!

Brooke - awww, poor Beyonce! I hope she gets well soon and that she gets used to the food (or at least eats that bag quickly! :lol:) Bless her.

[TimothyBFan]

Brooke--My Elton has been on a special diet for about 4 years now (he's 8). He's had a couple of bad UTIs and the crystals in his urine. The first time it happened was when we had just brought Ringo into the house and he got all stressed out about it thus causing the problem. 2nd time was when he had gotten out when the door was opened and no one realized it till he had been outside for about an hour. Again, he got stressed out and it caused the same problem again. That time, about 2 days later, I found him passed out in the middle of the laundry room floor and picked him up, ran him into the vet's office and he was put on IVs for 3 days and treated. Another HUGE vet bill for us but he made it. Since he's been on the diet, he's had no issues of course we also try to keep his stress level down. We feared a problem when Rufus came into the house but he didn't have a flare up. Apparently Elton has a low tolerance for stress and maybe we should put him on kitty downers! :hilarious:

Troub- with PM here---probably just taking her time easing into her new lifestyle. She'll adjust to her new eating and litter habits given time.

[Brooke]

Wow, poor Elton. My last cat (Sparky) died from it, so I know it can be very serious.

Beyonce's didn't get that bad before I realized it. She got a shot and meds for 2 weeks, which she also hated. I'm sure she'll give up and eat the special food if she gets hungry enough. She had just gotten used to it when Fishy moved in and she found his food. Poor baby.

[sodascouts]

Troub - I wouldn't panic about her low appetite. It's quite common for cats who have undergone a change, and if she's eating her wet food, she's getting nutrition and moisture.

Sorry to hear about these kitties suffering from UTI! Better an un-fun diet than painful infections, though.

[Prettymaid]

I guess we are going to have to keep them separated until she finishes her food.[/b] They are tolerating each other now, but at a distance!

That's too bad Brooke. It might be like starting from scratch when you try to re-acquaint them!

I came home for lunch just now and Buddy had found himself a patch of sunshine...

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s348/chilca0001/My%20Cats/DSC01386.jpg

[Troubadour]

What a cool photo! Buddy is a very handsome cat.

[Troubadour]

I was just on this great cat blog (here (http://www.wayofcats.com/blog/) if anyone wants to take a look) and this picture made me laugh, particularly as Maisie is sound asleep beside me right now - and has been for most of the afternoon. I'm sure most of you can relate!

http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/funny-pictures-cat-ignores-call-of-wild.jpg

[Prettymaid]

What a cool photo! Buddy is a very handsome cat.

Thanks. I've said it before on here - Buddy is the best cat I've ever had. He's almost dog-like. He always makes and keeps eye contact with me and he always wants to be with me (very much a lap cat). I've had cats all my life and never had a cat quite like him.

[Troubadour]

That is very sweet! He sounds like a wonderful companion.

Maisie is asleep on my lap right now. She had another good night. I felt bad leaving her yet again (she's staying in the large lounge/kitchen area for now - we're only in a flat) but she seems perfectly happy. No nighttime noises, and when I came in this morning she was relaxed and pleased to see me. Best of all, she ate really well. :) Funny that you mentioned eye contact, Maisie seems to like it too. Last night she got a lot more confident and was nuzzling her face against mine. Then, when I was on the laptop, she climbed up onto the arm of the sofa next to me, and was leaning over, looking at me. Her face was only a couple of inches from mine and she had this adorable expression - like I was some fascinating alien mothership she was checking out. It makes me laugh just thinking about it.

[Prettymaid]

Lol Troub! It sounds like Maisie's checking you out! I'm sure she appreciates the nice quiet home you are providing for her. As Hubby likes to say, these cats have it made. ;-)

[Troubadour]

Yup - she's certainly getting lots of love and attention! Not only did she eat almost a whole bowl of wet food this morning, I also managed to encourage her to eat a handful of her dried biscuits. Well chuffed! Now, how to tempt her to drink some water...

[sodascouts]

Ah, these precious cats! Buddy (aptly named) and Maisie both sound so sweet.

[Prettymaid]

Buddy originally got his name because I had a cat (Kipper, now deceased) and wanted a playmate for him - thus Buddy. Who knew he would become my bud too!

[Troubadour]

Aw, sweet story! Buddy is a great name - and very apt in this case.

Good news - Maisie has now eaten wet and dry food (quite a lot of wet today!) and she used her litter tray tonight. :yay:

We have to take her to the vet tomorrow to get a shot that she was due. I'm a little bit nervous about it because I don't know how she's going to be. I don't want her to think that she's being taken somewhere else! Poor thing. Hopefully it will be fine and as stress-free for her (and us!) as possible.

[tequila girl]

Good News that she's done evreything that's required Lou.......You just stay calm, put her in her carrier and talk to her all the way on the journey...she'll be fine... Trust Me!

[Prettymaid]

Yes, she'll be fine and you'll also get a better understanding of her personality by watching how she reacts at the vet. Funny, when it's time to go to the vet I can't get my cats into the carrier and once we're there I can't get them out!

[Troubadour]

We've just got back from taking Maisie to the vet. She was as good as gold! We picked her up in her blanket and put her in the carrier, and she didn't flinch or make a sound. She was perfectly quiet and docile at the vet, too, and went straight back into her carrier once he'd given her the jab. She seems to be happy to be home - she has eaten her wet food, and is wandering around getting reacquainted with the place. The lady from the Cats Protection League came over to drop some forms in, and Maisie ran and hid behind the sofa. That's the first time she's done that. She came out again as soon as the lady had gone! I'm so pleased the vets visit went smoothly, though. He said that she looked in good shape.

[Annabel]

Awww bless her Troub. Maybe she hid because she thought the lady was here to take her away from her lovely new home. :shrug: :laugh:

[Brooke]

Funny, when it's time to go to the vet I can't get my cats into the carrier and once we're there I can't get them out!

I had this problem, too, Pm. My vet told me to hold her by the back of the neck (scruff) and pick her up and holding the carrier door up, she'll slide right in. It pretty much immobilizes them (Reminds me of a mother cat carrying a kitten). Doesn't hurt. I tried it and she just goes limp and into the carrier, voila!

And like you said, she doesn't want to come out at the vet and I have to take it apart!

Troub, I'm glad your trip to the vet with Maisie turned out ok and she's eating more. She'll probably get over the skittishness. My Mom's cat hides whenever anyone comes over. He has finally warmed up to me and my brother, but anyone else and he's hid until they leave.

[GlennLover]

That's wonderful that the vet said that Maisie is in great shape! I'm sure it eases your mind considerably. You don't know how lucky you are that she went easily & quietly to the vet. It's a real production here when we have to take one or more of ours. Brooke, I must try that "scruff of the neck" technique!

Troub, I wouldn't worry about Maisie hiding. We have 2 "greeters" (Lucky & Sam) that always come out when people come, but the other 3 usually remain hidden while anybody is here. Katie will eventually come out if she knows the visitors. Some cats are just shy. It may or may not be a result of how they were treated in the past.

[Troubadour]

Yeah, it's great to know that she's as healthy as can be for now. She really is the SWEETEST cat. I'm actually typing one-handed right now because she is zonked across my arms (apparently the jab makes them really drowsy and lethargic...)

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie8.jpg

And this was Maisie earlier. Who needs a kitty bed when you have a whole sofa to yourself?

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie9.jpg

[TimothyBFan]

(apparently the jab makes them really drowsy and lethargic...)




Being a cat makes them really drowsy and lethargic. :hilarious:

And Lou--welcome to being as pathetic about your pet as the rest of us here! :thumbsup:

[Troubadour]

LOL, you're right - I should have said "even more drowsy and lethargic than usual!"

And yeah... I realise my past five FB updates have been focused around Maisie...

Must. find. something. else. to. talk. about.

[TimothyBFan]

:hilarious: I'm loving it!!!!

[GlennLover]

Yeah, it's great to know that she's as healthy as can be for now. She really is the SWEETEST cat. I'm actually typing one-handed right now because she is zonked across my arms (apparently the jab makes them really drowsy and lethargic...)

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie8.jpg

And this was Maisie earlier. Who needs a kitty bed when you have a whole sofa to yourself?

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie9.jpg

LOL! Lou, I have that problem that you have in the 1st picture too! Usually though I can't even see the screen or the keyboard. Somebody likes my full attention when they want it.

As for having the couch as a bed, there aren't many places left to sit in our livingroom when all 5 are taking a nap. Of course we wouldn't dream of moving one of them. Whose house is this anyway? Oh yea, it's theirs. :eyebrow: :laugh:

[Prettymaid]

Whose house is this anyway? Oh yea, it's theirs. :eyebrow: :laugh:

Lol!

Every cat I've ever had hides when someone comes over. The two I have now eventually will come out...sometimes. I think it's pretty normal.

Lou, please don't think you're boring us with the Maisie talk and pics. I love them!

[sodascouts]

Glad to hear things are going so well, Troub!

My cat also has the "I don't want to get in to the carrier and go to the vet - no wait, I'm at the vet and he can't reach me with the needle if I stay in my carrier" syndrome. lol My carrier is soft-sided and unzips, which makes it very easy to take Milton out no matter if he likes it or not!

My cat used to be actively hostile to almost all my guests, especially male ones. He would hiss and swat at people's feet with his paws or hide. If it was an overnight visitor, he would go beat on the person's suitcase. I guess he doesn't like other people coming into "his" apartment. He's getting better, though.

[Troubadour]

Aw, maybe he's trying to protect you, Soda! ;)

Okay, last cute Maisie tidbit for the day... She's taken to perching on the arm of the sofa next to me and leaning down and studying me with fascination (like she was doing the other night), with her face only an inch or two from mine. Then, when I talk to her, she leans forward and rubs her head against my cheek and chin. It's the sweetest thing! :heart:

[jdubfan]

I really think there's an extra appreciation from rescued critters for their new people, they know their butts have been saved and they're extremely grateful.

[sodascouts]

She sounds too precious for words!

[WalshFan88]

Great looking pets everyone!! :)

We just dropped off Gibson at the vet. Microchipping, Neutering, and Vaccinations are scheduled for him tomorrow morning. We will pick him up on Saturday. We debated about the neutering because he is inside and all of the other females in the house are fixed so we weren't worried about puppies but we decided that it is healthier (meaning he can't get cancer in that area) and that the vet insists he will calm down a little. I'll believe it when I see it. He's still a puppy, but he thinks he will be more loving and friendly. He will be one upset pup when he wakes up from surgery tomorrow. Can't say I blame him... :hilarious:

[eaglesvet]

Aww, Austin, it's a male thing. Trust me, he'll do fine, and be better off in The Long Run.

Troub, I can't believe I missed the entire story of your adopting Maisie! That's what I get for straying away, I guess... It certainly looks like she has fit right into your household with flying colors, though! Very content, from the looks of things! Good luck with her. There are many FIV+ cats that can live for years with their disease. Just be on the lookout for any secondary bacterial infections (especially gingivitis and respiratory issues), and jump on them with antibiotics if needed. It sounds like you won't be missing one sneeze or drippy nose, judging from your careful observations of her thus far!

[sodascouts]

I've thought about doing the microchip thing. Is it expensive?

[eaglesvet]

Well, you would have to consider regional differences, but by us it is only $35, which I think is a bargain for the peace of mind it provides. Our practice has had quite a few pets returned to their owners through the HomeAgain service....not to mention the millions of pets returned nationwide.

[WalshFan88]

Aww, Austin, it's a male thing. Trust me, he'll do fine, and be better off in The Long Run.


I know it is... I was against the neutering for a long while at first, putting it off.... I just don't think that's right to do to the poor guy. :hilarious: But I know it's healthier. I wasn't worried so much about the risks (our vet is very good and been around here for a long time) as I was about him actually being neutered. :D I feel sorry for him already and he hasn't had the surgery yet! I just keep thanking my lucky stars I'm human and not canine! :rofl:

[WalshFan88]

Well, you would have to consider regional differences, but by us it is only $35, which I think is a bargain for the peace of mind it provides. Our practice has had quite a few pets returned to their owners through the HomeAgain service....not to mention the millions of pets returned nationwide.

Our vet uses HomeAgain too. It's an excellent thing for peace of mind. All of our pets have it.

[eaglesvet]

:thumbsup:

[Koala]

Lucky also has a Microchip, moreover, he is still announced by an honourary animal registration.
He carries a brand in the neckband with a telephone number. There one can call if you has found a dog or and cat and there, then the holder can be determined.

[Annabel]

Great looking pets everyone!! :)

We just dropped off Gibson at the vet. Microchipping, Neutering, and Vaccinations are scheduled for him tomorrow morning. We will pick him up on Saturday. We debated about the neutering because he is inside and all of the other females in the house are fixed so we weren't worried about puppies but we decided that it is healthier (meaning he can't get cancer in that area) and that the vet insists he will calm down a little. I'll believe it when I see it. He's still a puppy, but he thinks he will be more loving and friendly. He will be one upset pup when he wakes up from surgery tomorrow. Can't say I blame him... :hilarious:

Ooh Austin a Boxer with attitude tomorrow. :laugh: What am I saying, when doesn't a Boxer have attitude. :eyebrow: Ours is on antibiotics atm for something on her tummy., This morning despite wrapping the tablet in first a piece of chicken, then a piece of ham, and a 2nd piece then stuffing it into a sausage roll and finally hiding it in her dinner, she still managed to spit it out everytime. :brickwall: It has been so easy the last couple of days hiding it in a slice of meat but I guess she has got wise to me. :eyebrow:

Hope Gibson is okay when you pick him up tomorrow.

[Prettymaid]

Okay, last cute Maisie tidbit for the day... She's taken to perching on the arm of the sofa next to me and leaning down and studying me with fascination (like she was doing the other night), with her face only an inch or two from mine. Then, when I talk to her, she leans forward and rubs her head against my cheek and chin. It's the sweetest thing! :heart:

Buddy does that too! It has since morphed into me kissing him on the top of his head. He's so used to it now he just lowers his head when he gets near me to allow for the kisses!

Austin, I can't say I understand your pain :hilarious: but I agree that Gibson will come through this a better dog!

[WalshFan88]

Austin, I can't say I understand your pain :hilarious: but I agree that Gibson will come through this a better dog!

:hilarious: I know he will!

[Brooke]

Buddy does that too! It has since morphed into me kissing him on the top of his head. He's so used to it now he just lowers his head when he gets near me to allow for the kisses!


Cute! My last cat, Sparky, would lean forward, nose down, so I would kiss him on the top of the head whenever he would hop on my lap for a rest! I've tried to teach Beyonce, but she hasn't cooperated. She also came from the shelter microchipped.

I had to give in and give her some of her old food last night. She had refused to eat the special food for several days and just wondered around looking for something to eat. She has actually lost a little weight and I felt so sorry for her. I mean she really chowed down when she found something she liked. I'll try mixing it with the special food and maybe she will get enough of it to help her condition. Don't know what else to do. I can't let her starve! The vet said she'd eat it if she got hungry enough, but I didn't think she was going to give in. :shrug:

Austin, don't worry. Gibson will be fine and hopefully calmer. We had our little terrier, Doc, neutered a few years ago. A more hyper dog I've never seen! He is better, but still pretty hyper.

[WalshFan88]

Gibson made it through surgery fine. We pick him up tomorrow morning. Then after that, I have to head out to work on a client's computer. So I won't get to see him much til I get home tomorrow evening.

[Annabel]

:yay: Austin, Good news about Gibson. He'll be full of bounce again soon tehn :blueblob: :lol: :lol:

[Prettymaid]

Gibson made it through surgery fine. We pick him up tomorrow morning. Then after that, I have to head out to work on a client's computer. So I won't get to see him much til I get home tomorrow evening.

It's just as well. He's going to be one sore, sleey pup!

[Koala]

Glad to hear the good news about Gibson!

[Troubadour]

I'm glad everything went well, Austin! :thumbsup:

[sodascouts]

Yes, glad to hear Gibson's doing well!

There was no choice for me regarding neutering. Male cats that aren't neutered have a bad habit of spraying their residences.

And I think Milton's next visit to the vet will include microchipping!

[Glennsallnighter]

Aw, that's so sweet of you, Cathy!

Well... Maisie arrived about an hour and a half ago... She was very inquisitive, looking around the place, but came to us immediately and let us stroke her. The Cats Protection lady had thought she'd be shy, but she wasn't really. (She's just been on my lap for the past 20 minutes, purring and napping!) She is such a sweetie.

Meet Maisie!

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie4.jpg

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie2.jpg

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie1.jpg

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie3.jpg

This was her a few minutes ago on me:

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c374/Lulabelle_/Continued/Maisie5.jpg

Yeah... I don't think she's going to have any problems settling in!!

Awwwww LOU! :hug: Though I have been following Maisie's progress with you on the BB, I hadn't realised you'd posted here as well!:doh: Apologies for not checking in on this thread sooner! She looks gorgeous. Congratulations on getting her. I know she has settled very well and I hope you have many happy years with her. She is a real sweetie!

[Glennsallnighter]

Austin,I don't have either dogs or cats but I'm sure you have done the right thing and Gibson will be fine. Good luck to him!

[WalshFan88]

Gibson is back home and doing fine! He's almost back to normal! :)

[tequila girl]

Aww Bless him....I'll bet that's a relief for you! :nod: :D

[WalshFan88]

Aww Bless him....I'll bet that's a relief for you! :nod: :D

Yep! I still feel sorry for him though! :hilarious: But I'm glad he made it through it fine! He's doing great! Almost back to his full mischievious self! LOL!

[jdubfan]

FYI, At his age, they recover very quickly... in case you thought you would get a quiet, good puppy for a few days.

[WalshFan88]

FYI, At his age, they recover very quickly... in case you thought you would get a quiet, good puppy for a few days.

:hilarious::hilarious::hilarious:

I didn't figure that, but I figured he'd at least show some signs of soreness or lessened activity. Nope!

[GlennLover]

Austin, I'm glad Gibson came through surgery well & is on the mend!

[Annabel]

:hilarious::hilarious::hilarious:

I didn't figure that, but I figured he'd at least show some signs of soreness or lessened activity. Nope!

:lol: :lol: Nope, that's the Boxer in him coming out. ;-)

[WalshFan88]

:lol: :lol: Nope, that's the Boxer in him coming out. ;-)

Oh yeah. Tonight he was back to his normal self. Jumping and wanting to play tug-of-war with his rope toy and back to being like before the surgery.... But he has stopped some of his dominance issues with the other dogs of him wanting to be boss and trying to pick fights with the other dogs. We have 3 Beagles and an English Bulldog and the Beagles always get picked on..... I lost my male Beagle back in September. I still haven't recovered from that. He was my best friend. I got Gibson a month or so after when we saw an ad in the paper for him.

[Annabel]

:laugh: I can totally relate to tug of war with a rope toy Austin and dominance over other dogs. Tots still has that trouble now, especially off the lead when she always turns deaf or forgets her name. :rolleyes:

[WalshFan88]

:laugh: I can totally relate to tug of war with a rope toy Austin and dominance over other dogs. Tots still has that trouble now, especially off the lead when she always turns deaf or forgets her name. :rolleyes:

Funny how that works huh? Then if you mention anything about a treat their hearing magically returns! :hilarious:

[Prettymaid]

:hilarious:

[Midnight_Flyer]

my cat Zorro with his foot by his nose

http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w56/Midnight_Flyer_2007/l_daaac9db03874f4d82551e22e0c1cefb.jpg

[tequila girl]

Awww Gorgeous! :laugh:

[Midnight_Flyer]

:hilarious:

[Annabel]

:huh: Amazing how comfortable our animals are in the most awkward positions :laugh:

Mine regularly lays like this,

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n242/Mellie1961/Animals/DSC06201.jpg
And this is one of her pups.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n242/Mellie1961/Animals/UpsidedownSpike.jpg

[Midnight_Flyer]

awwwwwwwwww gorgeous :)

[Troubadour]

Zorro and the pups are so cute!

This was Maisie earlier, fast asleep on my lap. She absolutely LOVES her cuddles. The first few days we had her, I was concerned that there was something else she wanted (or that she wanted to go out) because she would meow up at me despite being fed and watered, etc. I've worked out, though, that she just wants me to sit down so that she can climb up onto my lap and sleep on me! She loves being stroked and petted, and she often looks up at me while I'm stroking her cheeks and she looks so loving and docile.

She is the sweetest cat I have ever known. She can be a little nervy at times, but only with new people - or the hoover! She is so placid and she will let you pick her up, inspect her paws, wrap her up in a blanket... she loves it. She is just adorable.

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/184943_507223155796_222500151_255186_5206963_n.jpg

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/180833_507223889326_222500151_255190_3629242_n.jpg

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/180441_507223869366_222500151_255189_2245923_n.jpg

You'll also be pleased to hear that she's doing everything she should be - eating wet and dry food, using her litter tray correctly, and, best of all, drinking fresh water.

[WalshFan88]

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n242/Mellie1961/Animals/DSC06201.jpg


Is this "Tots", Annabel? Mine lays almost exactly like that. Must be a Boxer thing! :hilarious:

[WalshFan88]

Great pets Midnight Flyer and Troub!

[Annabel]

Is this "Tots", Annabel? Mine lays almost exactly like that. Must be a Boxer thing! :hilarious:

Yes Austin, That is Tots. :thumbsup: Her Mum lays the same way too. :laugh: Although our last Boxer, Cookie, didn't. :headscratch:

How is Gibson now?

[WalshFan88]

Yes Austin, That is Tots. :thumbsup: Her Mum lays the same way too. :laugh: Although our last Boxer, Cookie didn't. :headscratch:

How is Gibson now?

Gibson is back to....100% Gibson! :hilarious:

He is back to full activity - but doesn't seem to be as dominant with the other dogs but his energy level is the same! :rofl:

[Annabel]

Gibson is back to....100% Gibson! :hilarious:

He is back to full activity - but doesn't seem to be as dominant with the other dogs but his energy level is the same! :rofl:


:rofl: that's good to hear. At least you seem to have 'cured' one thing. :laugh:

[WalshFan88]

:rofl: that's good to hear. At least you seem to have 'cured' one thing. :laugh:

Yeah it was best that we did that. We weren't going to be having any puppies and that way it prevents those cancers and all of the rest is just nice improvements! :D (such as the dominance "humping" issue :rofl:)

[Troubadour]

A few pics of Maisie from earlier today... I love her eyes. They are so pretty.

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/183695_507242916196_222500151_255831_5936848_n.jpg

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/181715_507242926176_222500151_255832_255863_n.jpg

"Argh, the light! Too bright!"

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/185602_507242886256_222500151_255829_2667306_n.jpg

[Midnight_Flyer]

lovely pics :)

[sodascouts]

Yes, I love looking at them!

[Koala]

Yeah, beautiful eyes!

[tequila girl]

Awww She's gorgeous Lou! She certainly seems to have settled in with you very well :thumbsup:

[Prettymaid]

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/183695_507242916196_222500151_255831_5936848_n.jpg


She's just finished reading the paper, huh? :laugh:

I love these pictures. Keep 'em comin'!

[Midnight_Flyer]

http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w56/Midnight_Flyer_2007/c7613f0c-0454-4990-b8dc-be13b713be2b.jpg

Tig and my brother's friend Luke
http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w56/Midnight_Flyer_2007/5535c8b8-0a1f-4fee-aa97-2478eefaa116.jpg

and again
http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w56/Midnight_Flyer_2007/0a1d0269-2f80-4f66-9184-57103a3b8066.jpg

[sodascouts]

A guy who loves cats is my kind of guy! ;)

[Brooke]

Lou, it looks like Maisie is fitting in very well at your place!


A guy who loves cats is my kind of guy! ;)

Mine, too! My husband hates my cat, but somehow he tolerates her. :roll:

Thankfully, my son likes cats since his fiance has one.

[Prettymaid]

Aw, sweet pictures Midnight!

[Ive always been a dreamer]

Love your kitty pictures, Troub and Midnight Flyer!

[WalshFan88]

Great pics Troub and Midnight Flyer! :)

[Midnight_Flyer]

thanx everyone :)

[MikeA]

EaglesVet, or anyone else who has personal experience:

What can you tell me about the nature and maintenance on "Rat Terriers"?

We have a chance now to rescue two of these dogs, both young, that are being attended by prisoners but that are in a rotation from a teacher that my Wife knows. They rescue all dogs that cannot find homes and rotate some of them from their shelter to the State Prison where they are attended (supervised of course) by inmates there.

But what is their "character?" Are they generally "social" with children. Do they have any diseases that are common with the breed?

I just know nothing about them.

[jdubfan]

I'm not an expert but I have a friend who's a big rat fan, and another who's a breeder. They love to play and are fast, very active, liking to run around. That makes them lots of fun for kids, especially over 5 or so. They can also be a little snippy, but being a rescue and from the prison, they should be pretty socialized. That's important, they can be very protective. They're herders, so if you don't keep 'em busy and wear them out everyday, they'll create their own entertainment and not always in a good way. All the rats i've known love toys. They're smart, sweet, good dogs all around. My friend's dog is almost 19, and has had some skin issues, but nothing major. The AKC has good info about most breeds at their website.

[MikeA]

I've been reading up on them and found much about them as a reflection of what you just stated. But one thing about them really appealed to me: They are at home in WATER. We have fish ponds and a large inground swimming pool. It would not do to have a dog that would panic if it fell into something in which he would have to swim! I've heard horror stories about people losing four-legged family members in swimming pools!.

I think we can deal with the rest though I'll have to put up chicken wire on our iron fence. The bars are not close enough together to keep a small dog contained in the yard.

[EaglesKiwi]

Mike, I hope adopting works out well for you. We adopted a rescue about 8 months ago after losing our old dog, and we're all so happy to have him, it's really helped ease the pain. It was a big change going from a senior dog to a 6-month old puppy though!

Biggest thing for us was trying to get the kids to understand how a puppy thinks. e.g. daughter dances around squealing - puppy thinks that means "playtime". Son gets on floor on hands & knees - playtime!!.:rolleyes:

[EaglesKiwi]

In the meantime, any input from you pet-lovers out there would be great - anyone with experience of cats with FIV?

Troub - Maisie looks like such a sweet girl, and with lovely soft fur for SMOOCHING!

My colleague has a cat with FIV. He was diagnosed around age 9 and is now 15 and going strong. She said apart from keeping a watchful eye on him, the only time she really notices a difference from her other cats is that his annual vaccinations REALLY tire him out. (Her other cats get annual vaccinations for FIV to protect them).

[Annabel]

Biggest thing for us was trying to get the kids to understand how a puppy thinks. e.g. daughter dances around squealing - puppy thinks that means "playtime". Son gets on floor on hands & knees - playtime!!.:rolleyes:

We still get that with our 5 & 1/2 year old Boxer, who we took in from the breeder at 7 months old. (wasn't show dog material.) She loves nothing better than face washing an 11 year old DD who is rolling round the floor laughing. :rolleyes:

[MikeA]

My Wife called me this morning while she was driving to work. A Ringtail Fox had ran across the road in front of the old City Hall building....major 4-lane 40mph road heavily traveled during rush hour. I guess all four lanes of traffic came to a squealing halt to let the animal pass safely.

Foxes are not all that uncommon where we live, but to see one in the most congested area of our town is very rare! Wish she could have gotten a picture. They are beautiful animals.

[Annabel]

We have foxes here too and deer. There are several wooded areas nearby and all have some wild animals in them. They sometimes come into the village or onto the housing estates too.

On Friday a woodpecker was tapping away at a tree in the closest copse to our house. My DD didn't even realise that we had woodpeckers near. :laugh:

[MikeA]

They brought the dogs over tonight to let them meet us. We had Amanda bring Miles and Megan over also as we do not want any animal here that would endanger either of our grandchildren and we have them over here a LOT.

The THREE dogs they brought over were two Rat Terriers and an Lhasa Apso. The folks had just rescued the Lhasa Apso from a sentence of euthanasia and had only had her for a couple of days. The brought the dogs in and immediately, the Lhasa Apso headed straight for Verna's lap...flopped there and looked as though she was set for life! But that's not the type dog we want. Need something a bit more animated!

The two Rat Terriers promptly ignored everyone else in the room and occupied themselves with fake dog fights. They were rolling all over the floor flipping one another. They are both like greased lightening! FAST. The youngest pup is around 8 months old and just really didn't want anything to do with people other than the couple who brought them over. They'd both been around them for a couple of months before they turned them over to the inmates at the Prison.

Evette...the youngest one...growled at Miles and actually snapped at Megan. I'm sure that with a little acclimation time here at our house, she'd be fine, but neither Verna or I want to take the chance. She's still a puppy and very hyper.

Mia is around 3 years old and a lot more docile than Evette. While she wasn't anxious to have a lot to do with us, she was obviously more mature around the kids and us. Very curious. Checked everything out. We took them outside and Mia immediately did her business! Clearly house broken.

We'll be requesting Mia. I really think she'll fit in great here. She is larger than Evette but still a small dog. Maybe 20 pounds. She is large enough that she can't get through the rails that make up our iron fence. That'll save me a LOT of work "proofing" it. We're making the commitment tomorrow and hope to have her here at her new home in a day or so.

These people are very good foster homemakers for animals. They have already had all medical needs taken care of so really all we need to do is get her some food and other necessities....like leash collar and toys. Then will begin the adaptation of her to our house. I'll get a few pictures after we get her permanently residing with us.

But DANG if it wasn't for the concern for the grandchildren, I'd really love to have taken the challenge of adopting Evette. She is just beautiful. Primarily white with a few large black spots. Mia has more black but also carries white. Honestly, both are very cute and intelligent looking canines.

Oh, the Lhasa Apso...well, she looked like a rag mop <LOL> She was about as active as a footstool. 100% lap dog. Sweetest nature you'll ever see...but just not the dog for us.

[jdubfan]

Great you could make a connection, it's always a nice feeling to save a life. I think 2 dogs is easier, they can keep each other busy/company. If I ever get a job and back to regular finances, one of the first things I'll do is get another friend for my dog.
Hope it works out for everyone.

[EaglesKiwi]

Great you could make a connection, it's always a nice feeling to save a life. I think 2 dogs is easier, they can keep each other busy/company. If I ever get a job and back to regular finances, one of the first things I'll do is get another friend for my dog.
Hope it works out for everyone.

Mike this is great news!

I had to comment on the 2 dogs. While 2 will certainly keep each other company, if you get just one dog (at a time) then they will be focused on YOU which IMHO will help a lot with training them, and especially with getting them used to the kids. We're still training our wee boy and we've had him 8 months - he was friendly and submissive from day one, but there are so many other things to teach them. And when he's around other dogs his brain switches off COMPLETELY!

I hope everything works out really well. Can't wait for pictures.

[sodascouts]

Glad to hear you've found a new pet, Mike. Best of luck!

[Brooke]

Good luck with your new pals, Mike! Sounds like you will be busy!

[MikeA]

Just ONE for now Brooke. The two Rats would be cute together, but as we saw last night, with both of them, we'd become their Hosts rather than "Their People." We don't want to be observers but rather family to them. With the two of those dogs together, we'd just be in the way.

We will undoubtedly be getting a kitten or cat a bit later on but not until after Mia gets acclimated to us and our house. That aspect does worry me and I admit it. Rat Terriers were vermin hunters and it is instinctive to them. I'm afraid that a small furry critter like a kitten will invoke ancestral instincts resulting in disaster! With her temperament, we may need to think about getting a baby cougar!

[MikeA]

These are the pics and videos of Mia and Yvonne on the Petfinder website.

These animals are all "rescues" that John and Vicki currently have and are trying to place. Imagine the devotion to the cause these two people have!

http://www.petfinder.com/pet-search?animal_type=&pet_breed=&location=rosalia%2C+ks&startsearch=Search

This is Mia, the one we settled on.

http://photocache.petfinder.com/fotos/KS192/KS192.18142265-1-pn.jpg

This is Yvonne, the young 8-mo-old Rat.

http://photocache.petfinder.com/fotos/KS192/KS192.18272900-1-pn.jpg

[sodascouts]

So adorable! Too bad you only could take one.

[MikeA]

I think ONE will be plenty. I just wish that we could have gotten her today. However, the couple who run the rescue mission (or whatever it is called) don't want us driving out to get her and they are committed tomorrow. He's bringing her out to leaver her with us Monday "sometime".

This is as bad as waiting on a new guitar to be shipped!

[tequila girl]

Awww i'm almost as thrilled as you must be Mike......well done for "rescuing" a dog in need....can't wait to see the pics of her all settled! :D

[MikeA]

They must have heard us whining about having to wait until Monday. Just got a call and they are bringing her out TONIGHT! Okay, mad scramble now. Verna is off to Walmart to get Mia-food, a collar and leash and a bucket of toys.

Me....I'm going to sit here and go nuts waiting. Stupid. I'm freakin' 63 years old. Feel like a kid waiting for his first....okay, let's just say Christmas <LOL>

[Troubadour]

How exciting for you, Mike! I hope Mia settles in really well - she is lucky to be going to such a loving home. Can't wait to see more photos. She is lovely.

[tequila girl]

They must have heard us whining about having to wait until Monday. Just got a call and they are bringing her out TONIGHT! Okay, mad scramble now. Verna is off to Walmart to get Mia-food, a collar and leash and a bucket of toys.

Me....I'm going to sit here and go nuts waiting. Stupid. I'm freakin' 63 years old. Feel like a kid waiting for his first....okay, let's just say Christmas <LOL>
Woooohooooooooo :yay: