We adopted Aurora after considering at least a dozen of cats. A first visit to the shelter can be very overwhelming. There are many beautiful and lovable cats who all need a good home! Donna’s advice proved invaluable. She and the volunteers know a lot about each cat’s personality, history, and needs. After sufficient time of careful consideration of the cats and our home situation we thought that Aurora would be the right choice. One of the factors was that we both remembered her well, more than a week after meeting her for the first time.

Our second visit to the shelter was less overwhelming, as we were better prepared and could focus on the questions we had about cat care and the adoption procedure. We greatly benefited from advice about food and supplies, some of which is available at the shelter through samples or for reasonable prices. This ensured us we were starting out with the right equipment. We are also grateful for the advice we have received after Aurora had already come home with us. Great after care!

Thank you Donna and volunteers, for all your hard work at the shelter. It is a huge task to take on the care for animals in need, while others turn a blind eye. Thank you very much for rescuing my new friend.

Aurora is a happy cat and we love to have her around. She is quiet but also playful and sweet, which makes her great company: our Australian Sheppard, Tucker, even hangs out with her!

My daughter always wants a cat. I promised her to adopt one when I come back from a long trip to China. She just couldn’t wait when I was away. When we came to the North Toronto Cat Rescue, we were surprised by so many cats in the house. Thank you Donna’s team to take care of these wonderful lives. We adopted Styx, a lovely gray white little kitten. When he came to his new home, he was so excited, running from here to there, visiting all the floors. Now Styx is our best friend. He likes to play with my daughter and nap on my lap. He is so wonderful, just like our baby. We all love him very much!

Just wanted to let you know that George is a treasure. He is such an affectionate boy and had adjusted very well. He enjoys spending days with our other 2, Walter and Jack.

When we first took him home, he seemed depressed. I think he missed the other cats he left behind. Then came out the happy George, people who meet him adore him...

Thank you!!!

Just a little note from Jagger, formerly known as Simba. Jagger came into our lives in October of 2011. I laid eyes on him through the first door on the right as you enter the front area. He was so beautiful and regal I was afraid somebody else would take him home before I could claim him as my own. My family all walked into the first room and I picked up Jagger and sat him on my lap. He went limp and sprawled on my lap purring quietly. I told my children that they could look around all they wanted but this is the cat we are taking home.

We explored the rest of the sanctuary petting cats and kittens as we went. I was very impressed how clean the litter and the feeding areas were. Not only did I get the opportunity to pick out a companion, but I also got a lot of pointers about cat care and health. As we took Jagger home in the cat carrier, he was very quiet and relaxed and even fell asleep after a few minutes. He is one cool cat. Right off the bat he walked the house like he owned the place, not afraid in the least. The vacuum worried him at the start, but after 1 week he totally ignored it. Being very quiet at first he was incredibly relaxed around us all.

Now that a few months have passed, Jagger is getting into the groove of home life here in Whitby. We found food he loves, and have actually had to limit his feedings as he is developing quite the little tummy. He has even taught us to put all bread away when we are finished with it as bread makes a nice snack in the middle of the night! Jagger's playfulness is coming out more and more every day. He constantly flies through the air doing flips while trying to catch his favorite toy on a string. He is learning fast to be gentle with his claws and teeth. Every night he sleeps on the bed purring away seemingly louder and louder every night. He isn't a lap cat quite yet but as he ages it will just be a matter of time.

Every room we go to Jagger follows. He walks along the bathroom vanity while you brush your teeth, waving his tail against you. Jagger's oddest quirk is that he scratches the glass frantically if you are outside and he sees you. Coming back inside you will be greeted with a lot of affection because he missed you so much.

Halloween was busy as every time the door bell rang he would run to the door to greet whoever was on the other side. Of course when coming home from work it's so nice to be greeted at the door with the most beautiful cat in the world. Not a day has gone by that I don't watch him sleep admiring his beauty and feeling so lucky to have found North Toronto Cat Rescue who took such good care of my new best buddy. Thank you to all those who help the innocent,

Shannon and Family

I just wanted to write you a letter to provide you with an update on Guinness and Diva.

It was a bit of a shaky start indeed – I barely even saw Diva for the first 2 weeks as she chose to live under my dishwasher, up on the bookshelf or in other as-of-yet-found hiding places! She was nervous and scared and I did my best to give her some time & space to get used to me and her new home. Guinness on the other hand started warming up right away. Although he sequestered himself to the upstairs floor for the first week or so, he quickly became comfortable in his new surroundings and with me, and moved himself right in!

I felt a little sad for Guinness, as he was clearly lonely for the company of other cats, and Diva was too scared to even socialize with him. But after 2 weeks, I saw a rapid change in her. Although still wary of me, she began to emerge and quickly bonded with Guinness. The two of them started to explore the house together, and they quickly showed me that there is no place in this house that they can’t get to!

They have been playing together like mad, watching TV with me, grooming each other, sleeping together, wrestling and all sorts of crazy antics. I don’t even think I can call them "brother and sister" as it seems more like "boyfriend and girlfriend" – Diva follows Guinness around everywhere he goes, constantly rubbing up against him.

Guinness has made it clear that he is home now, and is having a blast with the place. He enjoys my company, and the company of Diva – so much so that he likes to play games... He’ll pay attention and play with her, then abruptly leave to come and play with me... back & forth and then suddenly he’ll walk away from both of us, but look behind to make sure we’re still watching him. I’ve tentatively renamed him "Tango" because he definitely loves to "do the dance" between us!

Funnily enough, he’s earned the nickname "Toots!" This is because he’s developed a strange habit – while in the throes of a good cuddle session, he’ll let out a toot (rather stinky one!) – I think he believes it’s a sign of affection! Diva is coming along. She’s still a little skittish and tends to run when anyone approaches her, but if we are still, she’ll happily have the fun of the place, and approach me for cuddles and play. Although still wary, every day she’s gaining a little more trust in me. She even (sometimes) lets me rub her belly – she definitely likes it, but is still grappling with her trust issues. She watches me cuddle with Guinness (Tango) a lot, and from that I think she’s realizing that I mean her no harm.

I’ve tentatively renamed her "Trix" because she likes to play hide & seek, though sometimes I call her "Slinky" because she can get around with such stealth and speed it’s pretty amazing!

Over the last number of days she’s really blossomed, and become quite the chatty girl – both of them in fact love to have conversations with each other and with me.

She’s starting to take over the place as well, and grows more bold each day, especially after she observes Guinness’ comfort. She’s now even allowing my boyfriend to pet & play with her, so I’m happy she’s getting comfortable with the people in her life.

What’s growing into my biggest challenge is the ability to cuddle them both at the same time! When they want their cuddles they want me all to themselves and like to block each other’s path. Guinness will often place himself between Diva & I, and sometimes will lie down right on top of her, so that he gets petted instead! He’s a crafty one indeed!

I can’t even begin to describe how much joy they bring to me. Ever since my girl (Kashmir) passed away last August, it has been so empty and quiet in my house, and it’s affected me more than I realized. Now my house feels like a home again, and I’m constantly smiling, laughing and marvelling at their antics (it’s taking some time to get used to their youth & vigour compared to my senior kitties!)

I can’t thank you and your team of volunteers enough for all of the great things that you do at the North Toronto Cat Rescue. Your love and attention has saved these cats from such terrible fates, and gives them the opportunity to enjoy long & happy lives. I’m so excited to have given Guinness and Diva their forever homes, and they both have come to enjoy being here.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for bringing us together to make a happy little family, we will always remember your kindness and the second chance at life you gave them.

Sameth Wolfe

Good morning! Lewis has fit in incredibly well. He didn't even blink when he met our dogs. He actually rubs up against them when they walk past him. The most incredible reaction has been Kingston's. I've never seen anything like it. Lewis spent half a day in the den and then Kingston accidentally got in. Kingston immediately started cleaning Lewis! He's treating him like his own personal pet. Kingston has Lewis all cleaned up and fluffy now! Anytime Lewis starts to clean himself, Kingston comes right over and takes on the task himself! Lewis is very confident in the house. He is cuddly and playful... just a lovely and perfect addition to our family. I think Kingston is the most pleased with the new addition though. Lewis isn't a big eater yet. He isn't keen on Acana kibble. We had some Hills food from the vet (junk food we call it!) and he loves that. I'm sure once he gets eating regularly he will adapt to the healthy stuff.

Thanks for all you do! It is impossible to imagine someone not giving Lewis and Kingston a wonderful home. It's hard to fathom these lovely boys on death row in the pound. They are little angels in fur suits!

Linda

Hi Donna and everyone at the North Toronto Cat Rescue.

We just wanted to send an update about Coppurr (formerly known as Raven) whom we adopted on June 4, 2011 (along with Lucy). Coppurr is a pure joy to have in our home and she has blossomed into a very affectionate, playful and talkative kitty! She certainly has come a long way from when we first brought her home; she was very skittish and shy and fearful and for the first month hid under the bed and would hiss and try to run away from any contact. Very slowly we worked with her every day, sitting on the floor reading a book and just let her become used to our presence. Eventually her curiosity would take over and she would slink out for a look and a sniff - over the weeks she would allow us to rub her neck and stay beside her as she ate her food.

By 3 months, she was allowing us to pet her all over and even sit on our laps briefly and she had decided it was okay to walk around the entire house and hang out in the living room with the other cats and our dog Hamish without being afraid. Now she is eager to be petted all the time, loves to play with all the toys, runs up and down the stairs chasing Rupert and Chester and she talks alot at feeding time and when being brushed and rubbed. We could not have picked a more wonderful cat to become part of our family and we are so happy to have given her a "furrever" home. Thanks again to all of you and keep up the great work! We have attached some pictures for you to enjoy!

Jo-Ann & Ron

Hi Donna.

I wanted to share a couple of photos of Tiffany (formerly Dolly). She has settled in quite nicely in our family, Tiffany loves to play with Amy and Evan and is very affectionate, she even takes turns sleeping with the kids. She has adjusted very well to living with a dog and we are hoping they will become good friends in no time.

We are very pleased with our decision to adopt from North Toronto Cat Rescue, and are thankful that Tiffany chose our family. Take care,

Lisa, Dave, Amy & Evan Graham

Pumpkin has instantly adjusted very well to her new home. She is the sweetest and happiest little cat. She wakes me up in the middle of the night to bring me her favorite toy as a present. She is so laid back and friendly to everyone who meets her. I am so very happy I found her and I am very thankful for NTCR taking her in and looking after her. It is an amazing rescue group whom I will continue to support through my work at an animal hospital and personally. I wish I could have adopted more, they were so friendly and well taken care of when I visited. All my future cats will be from NTCR, no other shelter or group.

Thank you Donna and North Toronto Cat Rescue.

Hi Donna and everyone at the North Toronto cat Rescue!

We just wanted to send an update about Lucy (formerly known as Lola) whom we adopted on June 4/2011. She is such a sweet little monkey! The first few days she was a little nervous with all the new sounds in the house, but it really didn't take her long to settle in. She actually went right up to our Westie, Hamish, and rubbed against him like they were long lost pals, so she obviously has had no previous exposure to dogs or if so, they were positive. She has definitely embraced the moniker of a "copy cat". Lucy follows our big boy Chesterton all around the house - ironically enough he is also black and white, so she looks like his little sister and has picked up all his bad habits of yowling for food, jumping up on the top of the fridge and the kitchen cupboards, and taking over Hamish's dog bed!

But we just love our little Lucy goose! She is a wonderful addition to our family and we are very happy to have found her and to be able to provide her with a wonderful forever home. Thanks again Donna for everything. We have attached some pictures for you to enjoy!

Jo-Ann & Ron

Dear Donna and North Toronto Cat Rescue

I wanted to thank you for introducing beautiful black Olivia into our lives. She has been an absolute angel since we brought her home a few weeks ago. It only took her a day to adjust to our other cats and our dog. We re-named her Ivy since another cat is already called Olivia, and since as all your volunteers know, Ivy likes to climb around shoulders and cuddle there for hours.

I am so surprised that after a year at the shelter Ivy had not yet been adopted. She has so much to offer, and is truly a 'family cat'. Ivy sleeps with my kids, our dog, or one of her feline friends. She uses the scratching post like a pro, found the litter boxes right away and adjusted so quickly to our household. I think that's her 'training' at the shelter. You may recognize two former NTCR kittens. The top photo shows Koko, who I believe was a special needs, fragile little kitten last summer and is now just one big white and grey furball. Buff-coloured Dubsie is also in a photo -- he likes to sleep cuddled up with Ivy, but whenever I brought the camera near, they both scampered off. I'm sure they both seem so much larger to you now!

All the cats sure like to look out the sliding door, but of course we keep them indoors for their own safety and protection. What's captivating them in these photos is my dog, who is out on the deck chasing flying leaves. That's her black nose at the window, looking in ...

Thank you again for this gorgeous and sweet black cat. I hope other prospective visitors to the shelter also consider an adult cat -- honestly, so easy to take care of, no follow-up at the vet clinic since the spaying/neutering and vaccinations are already done, strong and healthy -- comes 'fully loaded'. And as for Ivy being a black cat (which apparently and shockingly still deters some people in 2011) -- she has brought us nothing but good fortune and many blessings. We are so thrilled to have her join our household. Keep doing your amazing work!

Hi Donna,

I wanted to share these photos of my Sassy with you.

She has brought me so much joy & I just love her to pieces.

Kathryn

Hi Donna,

Thanks again for everything you've done for Chevis in his young life. He's been in our house for about two weeks now and we have to say: he is just the friendliest, best-natured and most forgiving cat! It took him about two days to settle in, getting familiar with the house, the new people and new cat in his life, but now he is enjoying himself immensely, evidenced by his roaring purr, playful antics, perfect manners, and the love that he happily gives and accepts.

Chevis almost immediately tried to befriend Biggie Smalls, our other cat, but Biggie needed some time to adjust, to get used to having another cat share his environment, and so there was some hissing on Biggie's part. Now, however, the hissing has stopped and they play together, chase each other, and we are hopeful that their bond will grow stronger over time so that Chevis will finally be able to give in to his beloved habit of grooming other cats. Anyway, we hope you and the other kittens at the NTCR are doing well, and thanks again for everything,

Susan and Koen

Merlin and Pumpkin, our two handsome boys, two very sweet souls and two gifts from above….

from Joyce and Ron Armstrong

Hi Donna

I took quite a few pictures of Zeke and Trance together. Zeke is till very shy, but he has made friends with Trance who has welcomed him. Zeke, has regularly been showing affection to Trance... He comes to me and rubs against my leg and lately has been settling on my lap when I watch T.V.

In fact, he seems to like watching T.V. himself...

During the day, he has the run of the place together with Trance and they seem to get along very well. When I come home in the evening, he often greets me and I pet him. He is eating well and looks very healthy.

Shelley

Hi Donna!

Thank you for your wonderful knowledge and patience on Saturday as we adopted our new family member for the next 20 years :) Buttons, who is now Didi in our household, is such a dream come true. She is cuddly, friendly and fearless!

There was no need to even keep her separate for the night, she wanted to explore! She is so happy when we are around, she jumps up on her hind legs so our hands can pet her faster!

North Toronto Cat Rescue is such a wonderful place and we have been spreading the word, and plans for a fundraiser home barbecue among our friends and family are in the works. You are truly a hero in the lives of so many wonderful animals, and we are proud to have adopted from NTCR!

Here are some photos of Didi and her new housemate Gibson, so you can see how well she is doing in such a short time!

Best, Tanya and James

Here are a couple pics of Molly, Maggie and our dog Toby. We're loving the cats, and I think they're really happy here. They sleep with us and like to hang out wherever we are.

Michelle

I just wanted to give you an update and thank you for so many things; firstly for allowing me to meet Lucky. She is a beautiful quiet girl who stole my heart with her blurry photo on pet finder. I was relieved to find the North Toronto Cat Rescue shelter housed their guests in 'rooms in a home' rather than in 'cages in a facility'. The overall feeling there was one of family nurturing, it was quite evident that all animals are given love along with the necessities of life as part of their rehabilitation while waiting to be adopted. Lucky was a quiet self-assured cat who lounged and slept independently in a room of friends. The fact that she was so relaxed among this community is a testament to you and your staff, it was very obvious that she has been well taken care of, well adjusted in her environment and well socialized with both people and her feline friends.

I also want to thank you for seeing in me the possibility of a forever home for Luckyi t was important to me that this adoption wasn't about me picking a new pet but rather allowing Lucky the opportunity to decide if I would be a suitable guardian and friend for her in this world. Lucky had a very peaceful ride home with me after we left you... she gave me a little kitty noise when we first headed off, but seemed completely unphased. I should tell you that I yammered on like I was on a first date... she just took it all in stride and seemed very relaxed.

Upon arriving at her new home she wasted no time in exploring the apartment... I left her in my bedroom to unload the rest of the things in the jeep. Following your advice to familiarize her with one room and then expand on that, I thought was very rational but clearly she knew better. I came back in to find her wandering from room to room... so much for starting off slow?!

She seems to have settled right in, taking over all areas that look like beds and exploring everything else... before bed she purrs up a storm being loved, rubbed, scratched and petted and usually finds her way atop the dresser on a bed of pillows and sleeps overlooking me. ;)

She loves anything that will get her up higher- especially the top shelf in the closet, if I don't see her for half an hour I usually find her curled up in there sleeping on the blanket you gave her. She is always welcoming of any affection; her beautiful green smiley eyes greet any hand extended to her. Her soft silky baby fine coat leaves you always wanting to touch, hug and hold her more. She is not bashful at all, jumps into the bathtub and bathroom sink... the shower curtain is endless fun especially when it's wet. She followed me around yesterday while I cleaned the apartment like we were a team on a mission... and of course after we are done she manages to find cobwebs that I didn't know existed?!?

I was concerned that I hadn't seen her eating; she had been ignoring the soft food left out and seemed to have no interest in treats for the first few days home. Finally!! Of the two foods you provided me with she ate out of the Eagle Pack dish... and in the middle of the night she used the litter box!! ....its was all very exciting for me, I was so concerned that she missed the shelter, the other kitties and of course all of you!! She has since developed a regular schedule for all of her feline activities... with playing being the first priority =]

I am an eco-geek so all of her toys are made of non toxic natural materials, but of course she spent the first two days chasing my old squash ball all over the apartment before she gave them the time of day!! Ive also gotten a new brush specifically for her full beautiful coat, and we've been getting to know each other through time spent brushing and purring. She has also been a doll at using her scratch pad... only ever needing a gentle 'no' to remind her when she heads for the sofa.

Adopting Lucky was all about giving a lovely creature a forever home and to be honest a little about healing after the passing of my former feline friend of 14 years. It is a devastating blow to lose a family member and a difficult decision to open your heart and home to a new one. I have spent the past week getting to know Lucky just as much as her getting to know me. Lucky has put my fears of replacing my kitty at ease. She has erased all the worry I felt that she might not like her new home, the way I brush her or the view from my windows. She has also taught me that the amount of room and love in your heart is limitless. The adoption is not just about her getting used to her new home but also about me getting used to a new friend, with a new personality, we are now building a new bond based on who we each are to the other... not cat and owner. We complicate everything with our emotions and our four legged friends simplify all of it with a wag of their tail, wink in their eye or a meow... she opens up the possibility of new memories being made while honouring the memories of my past.

Everything about her is lovely; I can't help but describe her as that... and find myself referring to her as that. She is adorable and just the sight of her melts my heart, along with everyone who crosses her path. She is so at ease around anyone and her presence lightens any room. Despite not having a tail she makes her feelings known, this usually means demanding more attention and making sure everyone knows how soft and cuddly she is. It only takes a few moments for her to wash away any fears they have about touching the missing appendage. Everything about Lucky makes her more endearing. She is very happy to meet all of my friends and family who are all just as excited to meet the new member of the family. She has no use for closed doors and visits everyone in the bathroom like its a mandatory fee for using the facilities. I love that about cats - there is no such thing as a closed door!!

Lastly I want to thank you for the three hours I spent with you at the shelter, they were not just about meeting Lucky, but allowed me to get to know you and your staff of volunteers. It was clear to me that the animals in your care are treated with love as well as respect. The fact that you name all of them, you know their personalities, thier likes and dislikes, even their individual quirks allow you not only to find the right matches for homes but shows how much you respect these little creatures and allow them to be themselves while in this transition. The most difficult part of being with the North Toronto Cat Rescue was adopting only one... they are all so unique and beautiful in their own way... their stories show how far they have come but their eyes show that they still have faith in us- despite what they have endured. That is a testament to all of you… If ever you need reassurance of the difference you are making in this world. Without hesitation I can say that you are not only a last hope for some but the guardian angels of all these animals in the meantime. Whether the story was a broken leg, a missing tail, a matted coat or being from a feral colony the trust and acceptance I witnessed in all the creatures under your care was heart warming. There is so much in this world that causes disillusionment in our faith of human kind; the selfless devotion, endless giving and love you provide despite the heartbreaking circumstances you deal with daily and the lack of compassion and funding you receive has given me hope once again in human kind.

Thanx again for all of your hard work and dedication... without all of you selfless ladies so many miracles wouldn't find the sunlight... from my heart to yours, thank you all,

Vicki Cuthbertson

We are the proud new parents (Donna Lee and Ed Souriol) from North Bay who adopted little Percy last Thursday.

I wanted you to know he has adjusted really well into our family. We find him so adorable, cuddley and he purrs and snuggles all the time. Our children and other pets love him also.

Today we took him to our vet and she said he is going to be a very loving cat. She thought we made a very good choice. She checked him all over and gave him his needles. Everything was good. We booked him to be neutered in January because we want him to feel comfortable with us first and not have too much all at once.

We were so happy to meet you and will never forget our experience in going there and seeing what you are doing with all those kittens and cats. It's so nice to know there are still some good people in this world. We also enjoyed our visit with your other helper there and appreciated the hot chocolate and cookies she made for us. I bought more dry kitten food (the same sample you gave us). I also fed him wet food (which he loves). I will keep you updated on how he is doing. I hope you and your helper have a wonderful Christmas. We will keep in touch and let you know how our little Percy is doing.

Take care.

Donna Lee and Ed