Happily Ever After!

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

It's been almost 2 months since I first brought Piper home (Panda) and I wanted you to know she's doing amazing!! She fits in with our 3 other cats perfectly and has made our Feline family complete...

I'm being called the cat lady now!! I love it!!

We truly love her and are blessed to have met you. Thank you for all you do to help all the wondeful cats in your Shelter.. You're an ANGEL!!

I enclosed some new pictures of my baby girl... Piper... xoxo

Talk soon....

Marie

Hi Donna,

Thank you so much for all your help with Charlie! He is finally venturing out of his little room when we are around and letting us pet him out in the open.

He has become a very affectionate, vocal little man. We can't thank you enough for all your support.

Here are some pictures of Charlie.

See you soon, Paul

Just an update for you. Rosetta (aka Pancake) is doing amazingly well. She's unlike any cat I've ever had and makes me laugh constantly. She's fearless and explores everything, is not scared by the sounds outside ( I live on College street and there are street cars that make strange sounds) and she talks constantly to me and always wants to see what I'm doing.

She doesn't want to miss a thing to the point where I have to stand in the kitchen when she eats because if I go do something else, she will want to come and see thus ignore eating. She loves her laser pointer toy and gets quite the workout right before bed so she's all tuckered out. Don't worry. I keep it far away from her eyes. We also play a game called "extreme bally" which consists of me throwing the fluffy ball toy as far as I can in my apartment and she barrels after it leaping over and on top of everything in her way.

She's extremely nimble and very very agile and seems to love it. She takes the ball in her mouth and brings it back to me. Identity crisis?

You did a great job raising her and making her feel calm in the presence of humans and the easy life that she deserves. Better pictures will come soon. Just haven't had the time.

Thanks Donna!

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

Just wanted to let you know how Tulip and Buffy are doing in their new forever home. Firstly they are now named Double and Trouble.

I must say the whole experience so far has been positive. I was not very sure about getting two kittys, but we are all happy with the decision. It's so interesting seeing the 2 different personalities forming. Trouble made herself at home instantly, while Double took a day or two.

I find them to be the perfect combination of cuddly and independent. Yes they are curious and yes they're into everything, but you would expect no less from a couple of kittens. Their coats are beautiful and at this point in time they don't shed at all. I think it's partly to do with the organic food which we are continuing to feed them. I'm glad we found North Toronto Cat Rescue. The kittens and cats all look so well looked after and it's so clean.

Thank you, so much and hope to talk to you soon.

Gail

Zoot and Ginger, now Annabelle and Lilly, are well and settling in.

The first two nights were anxious and noisy (and exhausting) but yesterday all four of us managed a blissful evening.

I expect for them, simply finding that they are waking up in the same place is comforting as they are clearly more comfortable – and we are a great source of treats each evening in return first for proximity and now for real petting which is a pleasure for all.

They are still under the bed during the day but have found favoured spots on the couch and easy chairs when they are up and about. Of course, much time is spent on our windowsills – we look out on a wooded grove and hillside and the squirrels are active.

We found all the right food at our local Global Pet and they absolutely love the water fountain – which apparently is not only great for drinking but also for sticking your paws in.

Thank you so very much for all your encouragement and your great patience during our search to find just the right two.

Again thank you so very much for all that you do!!

Frances & Kevin

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

I just wanted to send along some photos of Sidney so that you could see how well he is doing.

He has settled in quite well and has taken over some of Fluffy's favourite spots! I have to tell you that when he meows, I swear he has a ring tone. We so enjoy him and know that Fluffy will eventually come around, how can she not? Sidney is such a character.

I included some photos of Fluffy, so that you can see that Sidney came into a good home, with lots of love to be had (Fluffy was also adopted.)

Thank you so much for looking after Sidney, the love and attention that was given to him by all of the volunteers can be seen in his character and attitude.

I have spread the word about your shelter and will continue to do so. I would also like to come and help out and pay back what Sidney was fortunate enough to receive. I will continue to send photos so you can see how well he is doing. Thank you again, for your kindness, your generosity and your love to all those cats who so desperately need it. May they all have find good homes.

Thank you again,

Best regards,

Kathy Lacroix

Just wanted to give you another update on Heidi. Those sad eyes are long gone, a thing of the past.

She has adjusted beautifully. She and our other cat love to play and chase one another. Whiskey is an older cat and was a large cat when we got her but she has lost lots of weight since she realized how much fun she can have with Heidi. They pretend they don't get along and when they think were not looking we catch them sleeping beside one another. Heidi has some contact with the dogs but we know that process will be slow. I thought it might be easier if she worked things out with Whiskey before she took the dogs on.

Heidi loves to follow my husband and myself everywhere. She always has to be in the same room as us. She falls asleep with her head on my husband's pillow and refuses to move over.

Heidi has been a fabulous addition to our family and we are loving every moment of bonding with her. She makes us laugh and we love to watch her chase Whiskey and vice versa.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to bring this precious cat into our home.

Claudia

I was lucky enough to find pictures of my almost two year-old girls on the North Toronto Cat Rescue website.

Katie's picture was the first one I saw and then Jewels' picture popped up, I was in love!

That night in November 2006 when I adopted them we became family!My "Girls" are as different as they can be-- Katie is the eldest by 34 days and is very shy and timid although as each day passes she is feeling more and more secure and trusting whereas her sister Jewels is one of the most outgoing kittens that you will ever find - she greets anyone that comes to our home at the door-- her personality screams 'here I am, watch me, play with me love me , I'm the main girl'. In her own home she fears nothing or anyone, and I am sure has been a big help in getting Katie to relax, and feel that it is safe and everything will be OK.

Until Donna and Carol from North Toronto Rescue found them and brought them into a safe place, my girls had a rough start to their lives.I promised both Donna and Carol at least these two little ones will be safe for the rest of their lives.

Because they care and even now are still interested in how their charges and past charges are doing, I still email pictures to Donna and let her know how my girls are and what they are doing.

As I have told Donna several times, I am so grateful that she and Carol trusted me enough to let me bring Katie and Jewels home where I could love them, of course now they are now happily running the show, just as it was always meant to be!

S.C.

Frosty and Blizzard are identical twins that were found wondering the streets with their other siblings with no mother in sight...

They were tiny little babies on the streets to face the challenge of survival! I wish I could thank the kind people who brought them into their home and called Donna from North Toronto Cat Rescue!

My boys and I fell in love with them as we watched them snuggling into each other. It really tore at our hearts to imagine such young cats alone on their own on the streets!

Well that was Nov. 2006 and they have grown into healthy large cats - full of energy. Frosty is a lap cat and loves cuddles and sitting on my lap purring away as I work on my computer! Blizzard is slightly larger and loves being active with my other two cats.They adore Mimi (a ragdoll cat) - they sit for ages licking her face as she purrs and soaks up their love and attention! Mushi (part Siamese/Ragdoll) is Blizzard's activity partner! Well, with four cats there is tons of hide and seek. Abigail (my dog) is the policeman and demands order in the house and that they all do not get carried away! I MUST thank Donna for all the love and TLC care she gave my twin cats which helped to make them the loveable family members that they are to my boys and myself!

Thanking you so much.

Jordie, Josh and Judy!

I have to take this moment to thank you and your troop for your support of the North Toronto Cat Rescue! They are a wonderful group and I am thrilled to see the community support.

I personally have adopted a little kitty from North Toronto Cat Rescue; her name is Annie as in little orphan Annie. She was caught in an illegal leg trap and was found starving and dying in a field. North Toronto Cat Rescue saved this tiny ball of fluff and got her the veterinary care that she needed. Even though Annie had to have her entire leg amputated she is now happy and healthy and loves to play her every waking moment. When North Toronto Cat Rescue saved the life of Annie they gave my family a wonderful bundle of joy that we shall love forever.

Thank you for choosing the North Toronto Cat Rescue to support with your community efforts! Be very proud of yourselves for doing such a wonderful thing. I send you a whisker tickle and a musical purr from Annie and warmest thanks and appreciation to every member of your troop who made your gift come true. Merry Christmas and love to you all!

Mary and Jeff Brown

Happy New Year to you both.I hope you had a wonderful holiday and have an even better New Year.

I just wanted to give you both a Priscilla update.She remains Priscilla yet also responds quite happily to Miss. Priss. My Priscilla is an absolute doll.I brought her home on the 1st of December (a Friday night) and by Wednesday she was sleeping with me in bed.She is so affectionate and often throws herself at me for rubs and kisses.When she first came home all the sounds around her frightened her.Now, one month later fire trucks and other loud outside sounds do not even phase her, she does not even open her eyes from her frequent couch cat naps.

She is learning to open up to visitors and after some coaxing, she allows her new friends to rub her belly.

Her new favourite toy is a laser pointer.She never tires of it, hour after hour.

I returned to work on Tuesday after having a wonderful holiday at home with her.I actually missed her so much the first day back at work that I set up one of her pics as my computer desktop screen. It was enough to get me through the day.

She is a little bit of a puppy dog at times, following me around from room to room. She seems to enjoy being the only cat of the house. She has had some cat interactions and although she enjoys them, she truly comes to life one on one.

Priscilla has truly brought joy to my life and I realize that I need her as much as she needs me.I thank you both for your devotion to our feline friends. I will keep you posted as to her progress.

All the Best for the New Year,

Priscilla and Kelly Meagher

Just a quick email to update you and Carol on Felix, formerly known as Boots! He is adjusting very well; his Brother Eddymax is coming along slowly.

Felix has gained weight from his constant eating and his stool is starting to firm-up.He loves the CD formula and we have given up on the sensitive stomach for now.We finally settled on the name Felix, but there were several before including Toots! Need I say more!

His loving nature is making Eddymax slightly jealous therefore Ron takes care of the cuddling with Felix and I take duty with Eddymax. We are learning his language and the conversations are getting longer!Eddymax is constantly being chased by Felix who just wants to play.I think Eddymax knows that Felix has his front claws and is a little leery.Eddymax is declawed.Every day is a new adventure and Felix is a very smart little boy - he has learned to stay off the kitchen counters and to use his scratching post.

I feel truly lucky to have found your organization in my hunt for a new addition. Thank you both and keep up the good work. I enjoyed watching you on Animal House Calls on Tuesday night.

Laurie Rybski, Ron, Eddymax and Felix

I hope you have been well. I thought I would send you some pictures of little Coco (Mittens). It is her birthday on July 21st (yes, she will get a gift and candle in her food), so I thought I would drop you a line and show you some pics.

She is the BEST cat ever. Everyone loves her. She falls asleep while I clip her toenails, talks to me every night when I get home from work (waits at the door too) and just LOVES to cuddle (and sleep the whole night curdle up with me). WOW, just perfect. You did a great job raising her, so many people have made comments about how lucky I am that she has never damaged a thing in my place but I think it was just good raising on your part. I would definitely refer, or come to you again for a little friend for Coco.

Best money I ever invested, so THANK YOU very much.

Any how, she will be a year in 3 days so here she is. These aren't entirely up to date, (you can see her belly still from when she was spade). It took quite a while for that fur to come in- but she is all grown up now. On a side note- she only wears the collar when I have company. (hehe)-- I remember your words about them not liking things around their necks.

Any how, Every so often I will pass some pics along if you would like to see her.

Regards,

S.C.