Momma Is Sad

Momma had a favorite kitty in the shelter. His name was India, a sleek black beauty with golden eyes. He was still a kitten, but in the three months she has been there, hadn't put on any weight and never played. She told the techs there was something wrong, and for a while they said, he was just "laid back." Momma knew better and would hold him, but he seemed so frail and wanted to cuddle the other kitties.

Yesterday, when Momma went to the shelter, everyone was sad, and they said little India had to go to Rainbow Bridge because he got terrible sick, he couldn't even stand up. He was suffering. Momma knows it is for the best, but she misses her black beauty.

~Patches Lady~

What Is Goin On???

Momma puts on a strange outfit, with kitties all over the front on it, she calls it a "scrub" and says it is to protect us. When she comes home, she doesn't even say "hi" but rushes upstairs to change. I can still smell something, though. It smells like other cats! Is she two-timng us?

~Patches Lady~

Health Update

Hi everyone:

Well, I found out why I have been so sick. It is a bacteria in my stomach called "bacterium Helicobacter pylori," the same bacteria responsible for ulcers (which I probably would have gotten.) It seems this bacteria is in many of us, lying dormant since childhood. It was verified with the biopsy they took during the endoscopy. I am on very heavy doses of antibiotics (two kinds) because it is very resistant. I have 10 days worth of pills, then a month to see how I feel, and an appointment with my Dr. at the end of March, when I, hopefully, get a clean bill of health.

I can actually say "I am glad" that is what it was, easily treatable and now I KNOW. Now, I feel I can get on with my life, (I will probably have ups and downs) and feel great today, although I know it is too early for the meds to be working.

Getting back to a regular routine at the shelter is so important. I have learned many sad facts about humans, mainly that they aren't very humane! If the way we treat animals reflects on what a society we are, it is very disturbing. So many animals are "owner release" or just dumped in the hallway or outside (we have a waiting list because we are a "no kill" facility.) I am not going into details, it is just too upsetting and heartbreaking, however on the flip side, I do meet many wonderful animal lovers.

Thanks to all of you for being so supportive in this long ordeal of mine. You are all wonderful friends and the CB means so much to me. Hugs to all.........

CalioMom Toni :)

Pee Ess: The girls are all fine, and Mistrie came through the winter fat and sassy and waits every night before supper to come inside and rub noses with Patches, then runs out to "her domain."

Health And Shelter Update

Health Update from CalicoMom Toni:

Hi and thanks to all for your concern. Here is what has happened so far:

My GP sent me to a Gastroenterologist in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, (60 miles from home) last week, who did an endoscopy yesterday. He said my stomach was red and irritated and took a culture, checking for the presence of Helico Bacter (the bacteria responsible for ulcers.) Tomorrow I go to our hospital for an ultrasound of my stomach. He also did blood work, involving my liver and pancreas. As soon as I hear something, I will let you know.

I have been doing volunteer work at our shelter, and try, if I feel up to it, to go in three days a week. I do everything for Cat Petfinders now, taking pictures and posting them on Petfinder's website. I have about 100 cats I have done, so far; many have been adopted. There are about 60 viewable ones, right now. I also love to spend time socializing the cats, and whatever clean-up is necessary. You can see Panhandle Animal Shelter's Cat Petfinder site HERE. The first entry I call "The Kittens" and it is a work in progress, as it changes almost daily.The work is so rewarding and I really love it.