PENINSULA FRIENDS OF ANIMALS

FROM THE HOME FRONT
TALES OF THE SAFE HAVEN KITTIES
BROUGHT TO YOU BY MERRY

WEEK 25:  LOVE IS IN THE AIR

Hi everyone!

It is soooo nice to be able to go outside and breathe clean, fresh air. The cat doors are all unlocked, and everyone at the shelter, cats and humans alike, is in a much better mood. And now that everyone is feeling better, I’d like to approach a somewhat sensitive subject (that’s SSS for those of you who like short cuts!) It’s CLEANING! And yours truly contributes just as much to that need as any one else—including Tippy! Yes, I know we kitties make messes when we are eating, as well as when we make room for more food. (I wonder if that’s where the phrase “tail end” came from?) And, as Danette just pointed out, you humans contribute as much, if not more, than we kitties! Well, I’m not sure about that! But we do need morning volunteers to clean! Much as I’d like to have them just come in and play with me, it’s important to us kitties to have a clean environment. Keeps us healthy.

And the more time she spent around Rhodes, the more she liked him. And Rhodes really liked her. He talked to her regularly through the fence in the play yard (we kitties DO talk to each other—we just don’t let you humans know!) And the nicest thing happened. Lilly fell in love with the boy next door! She moved in with him so they could spend all their time together. I think Rhodes loves her too.

And before I end this week’s column, I’m going to repeat myself from last week: the Petco Holiday Wishes campaign ends this Wednesday. If you would like to write a story about your great PFOA kitty (or kitties), you only have a little time left. And if you need any help or would like someone to read your story before you send it in, I’d be happy to donate the services of my secretary and translator! And since you are reading this, she isn’t objecting … too much.

Lovingly,

LILLY

Domestic Shorthair, Female
Color: Tricolor
Size: Medium
Age: Young
Bonded with Rhodes
Special needs: none

Lilly was a feral kitten who lived her first year of life at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds.  She was rescued when she showed up with a damaged paw and a litter of kittens, and after a bit of a journey, including a week at the vet and several weeks at another shelter, she ended up at PFOA.

Lilly is a stunning cat, with a gorgeous white coat with orange, gray and brown patches. She is very sweet and she does like other cats. Unfortunately, she is extremely shy around people. Staff and volunteers at PFOA are working to socialize her, but progress is slow and she is still not able to be picked up. However, she has become very bonded with her roommate, Rhodes, and the two of them LOVE each other. They must be adopted together!

RHODES

Domestic Shorthair, Male
Color: Orange/white tabby
Size: Large
Age: Adult
Bonded with Lilly
Special needs: none

Rhodes arrived at Safe Haven as one of nine cats from an “unhealthy hoarding situation.” The outstanding characteristic of these kitties was their poor socialization and fear of strangers. Rhodes, like the others, was initially uncomfortable with people. He was extremely shy, and tended to hide from people he didn’t know.

However, he has gotten over his initial shyness.  Once he gets to know someone, he genuinely enjoys being petted and scratched. It takes a very special cat to have gone through what Rhodes has and be able to tolerate affection. He now genuinely enjoys being petted and scratched. Anyone willing to put forth a little extra effort will enjoy a quiet, gentle, easy-going fellow who will offer a lifetime of warm companionship. And … there’s a bonus! Rhodes has become very attached to his roommate, Lilly, who is very shy but LOVES Rhodes; the two of them MUST be adopted together!

RUFUS

Russian Blue/Domestic Shorthair, Male
Color: Gray/Blue
Size: Medium
Age: Adult
Special needs: none

A new cat joined us in late August, and he is out of quarantine and in his new playroom now. His name is Rufus and he’s a Russian Blue-type cat. He should really be an indoor cat but he gets owly if he doesn’t get to go outside. He’s very nice and friendly, but he will require a catio because he is a natural hunter. His specialty is birds, and he’s really good at it, so he has to have an outdoor fully enclosed yard to protect the wildlife.

DAISY

Domestic Longhair, Female
Color: Gray with white muzzle
Size: Medium
Age: Senior
Special needs: none

Daisy is 10 years old, so she just became a senior catizen this year.  She is quite shy because she’s recently had limited interaction with people and other cats.   She is afraid of dogs, and will attack dogs who are nervous around cats.  She lived with another cat when she was younger, but can be quite bossy and will do best as an only cat.  She is afraid of loud noises, and will do best in a quiet home. 

She came to the shelter because her caregiver recognized that she wasn’t getting the attention she needed and wanted to give her the opportunity to find a mature single-cat family.  Since she’s had a play room all to herself, she plays with her toys, and loves having staff play with her.  She hides at first, but then comes out and is very friendly.  She loves treats, and comes running when she hears the can opener. She loves to snuggle on soft blankets and knead and suckle the blanket.  She also enjoys being up high and looking out doors and windows.  

GARLAND

Domestic Medium Hair, Male
Color: Black/white tuxedo
Size: Medium
Age: Adult
Special needs: none

Like Rhodes, Garland came to PFOA as one of nine cats from an “unhealthy hoarding situation.” While most of the others still need considerable socialization, Garland is a curious, friendly little guy. He has a kind of “hall monitor” personality in his present situation – which means he is quite interested in the comings and goings of the other cats who share his space. He might even be called nosy, but in a good way, unless maybe you’re one of the other cats.

He enjoys being petted and scratched and welcomes attention from both men and women. With the proper technique, if you scratch his jowl just right he will lean into it and lean and lean and…finally flop on the floor. Garland is a quiet, gentle fellow with good manners. Currently, he doesn’t seem to favor being picked up, but he seeks out attention and affection and stays for more. He has made tremendous progress since coming to PFOA and in a safe, loving home should continue to grow as an affectionate companion.

FROM THE HOME FRONT
TALES OF THE SAFE HAVEN KITTIES
BROUGHT TO YOU BY MERRY

WEEK 24:  SMOKE AND RAIN

Hi everyone!

Well, we had a semi-revolution at the shelter last week. ‘Cause of all the bad stuff in the air, we were not allowed to go outdoors. I suppose Staff would have allowed it if we were willing to wear masks, but that boggles the mind. No self-respecting feline would consider wearing a mask! That would be as bad as wearing a harness—for most of us.

So we woke up Saturday morning and found all the cat doors locked shut and the sliding doors closed. None of us could go out on our sun porches and catios! Sara and John came to take some photos later in the morning, and ended up with a bunch of angry cats on their hands! Not many photo ops that day!

There is good news, though: two of our kitties went home! Kylo Ren has a great extended family: in addition to his new parents, he has three cats and three dogs to play with! And O’Henry found a wonderful home with a very nice young man who has lots of experience with Siamese cats! Isn’t that great?

A new cat joined us last month, and he is out of quarantine and in his new playroom now. His name is Rufus and he’s a Russian Blue-type cat.

He’s very nice and super friendly, but he will require a catio like we have at the shelter. Nancy says he should really be an indoor cat but he gets “owly” if he doesn’t get to go outside. You see, Rufus is a natural hunter! His specialty is birds, and he’s really good at it, so he has to have an outdoor fully enclosed yard to protect the wildlife.

I’m so happy that we are starting to get more emails from regular readers of our little weekly newsletter. They tell us how much they enjoy having my column in their inbox every week, and they are also very helpful. I received an email last week pointing out that I am really a calico, not a tortie, because I have a coat of three colors, including white. Torties don’t have white, or if they do, it’s just a little spot or two. And, of course, I said in my last column that Angel Kitty is a tortie too—just like me. So I want to correct that! Angel Kitty is really a calico—just like me! I think the whole thing got started because of my purrsonality. Even though I’m a calico, I have been accused of having a generous dose of tortitude, so one day I just decided I could be a tortie. That’s how that got started. And I want to say to Sally: Don’t apologize. I’m really glad you took the time to write! Thank you.

And the best news: After a full week of horrid air, the smoke is finally going away. That should put everyone in the shelter—human and feline—in a much better mood. We kitties can go outside again. Only thing is that it’s raining! And most cats don’t like rain. At least, the ones I know don’t. So we have to schedule our outside play time very carefully!

Oh, and one more thing: the Petco Holiday Wishes campaign ends Wednesday, September 30. If you adopted your animal companion from us and would like to tell everyone how wonderful he/she is, just write a story (500 words max), add at least four (max 6) of your favorite photos, and submit it online to https://www.petcofoundation.org/holiday-wishes/. You get bragging rights, and you might even win a prize!

Lovingly,

LACIE, LUCIE & SUZIE

Seniors Lucie (above) and Lacie, plus their “kitten” Suzie, found a wonderful new forever home together!  Their new family, “The Motley Misfit Pack” sent us a great update and lots of photos.  We wanted to share them with you.  Here’s the email, with photos below:

Hello!
I am not entirely sure who runs this account but I was just hoping to let you know the three lovely girls we adopted from you recently are doing wonderful. I’m very grateful to know they were well taken care of before we got them and I hope we can continue to provide a home they thrive in. The three senior ladies we adopted were named Lacie, Lucie, and Suzie. I just wanted to check in and have you know they are in a good home and seem to be very happy. They’ve already made a little bit of progress with their weight loss and seem to love to walk around and explore the house. There are some recent pictures of them on this profile in the more recent posts and the “cats” highlight. If you would like, you are welcome to check those out and I can send you some other pictures if you want.
Thanks for taking good care of the girls,
The Motley Misfit Pack

FROM THE HOME FRONT
TALES OF THE SAFE HAVEN KITTIES
BROUGHT TO YOU BY MERRY

WEEK 23:  SHARE YOUR STORIES!

Hi everyone!

And if you missed meeting her, here’s a nice photo that our Sara took a day or so before Angel went home. Notice anything? She’s a tortie—just like me. No wonder she didn’t stick around long!

So, instead of writing about Angel Kitty, I’m gonna do something a little different this week. In case you didn’t know, my stories about our kitties have helped many of them find their forever homes. I’m really happy about that! And I found a way that you can help even more of my kitty friends by sharing your own stories. My human friends can say it better than I can, ‘cause it’s from an email that came to the shelter recently, and I don’t read so good. So here’s their message:

From loving head butts to cozier naps, and all the magical moments in between, cats make our lives better. Share how your special kitty or pair of kitties, adopted from PFOA, has changed your life. Your stories will help us earn up to $100,000 from @petcofoundation this Holiday Season and you can win a Petco shopping spree.

Share your story at https://petcofoundation.org/holidaywishes by September 23 and please let us know when you’re submitting the story by emailing us at pfoa@olypen.com.

I know that there are lots of great stories out there about my friends who have found their wonderful forever homes, and we would love to have you share them.  Purrsonally, I don’t hear too much about my friends who have gone home, and it would really be great to know how they are doing!  I kinda miss them!

So that’s my message for this week.  We didn’t get much warning on this, and the deadline is creeping up.  If you share your home with a cat, I KNOW you are familiar with the creeping thing!  And we would love to hear from you!

One more thing—guess what I did this week?  I went to the pet groomer!  If you thought I looked great before, I look absolutely stunning now!  I even feel better, so I’m walking around the shelter office more, making a nuisance of myself.  I just love walking all over Danette and Kimmie’s paperwork!  I even sat on the copier and somehow the copy button got pushed, and they have a picture of … well, it’s of where I sit down!   I’m not showing it to you, ‘cause this is NOT an “R” rated column!

Danette and Kimmie are so nice.  They don’t get upset or anything.  They just pick up their papers, clean off my paw marks, and carry on with their work.  I love these gals!

Lovingly,

DASH

Domestic Shorthair, Male
Color: Black/white tuxedo
Size: Medium
Age: Young
Special needs: none

This affectionate young tuxedo boy was originally adopted as a barn cat, but he loved visiting his neighbors and delighted in terrorizing the visitors to their bird baths and feeders.  He really wanted the company of humans more than his four-footed friends in the barn, and so he moved to the neighbors’ house, hanging off their screen doors and windows, trying to get in. He is very loving and sweet, and wants nothing more than to be with people. He loves to be talked to and loved. He puts his front paws on a person’s chest and shoulder, and kneads. He nuzzles right into your neck and gives kisses.

We believe he can easily be harness trained – if it means he can be with people, he would be purrfect with that! He seems to get along with other cats, but makes it known that he definitely wants to be the center of attention. He loves his outdoor time in a safe environment, but cannot have access to any bird feeders – he has a tendency to hang off them like a squirrel and he is not bird-friendly.

If you would like to meet Dash, please call for an appointment in a COVID-free environment. We require visitors to wear a protective mask. Be sure to bring a carrier, because you probably won’t be able to leave without him!

FINN

Domestic Longhair, Male
Color: Gray/white
Size: Large
Age: Young
Special needs: none

Findley (Finn) was adopted as a kitten about four years ago. He was one of the 2016 Reindeer Litter, and his original name was Blitzen. He went to live with an elderly gentlemen, where he spent four happy years.  Sadly, his owner died and he was returned to us for rehoming.

As a kitten, Finn (Blitzen) was a very outgoing, playful, happy little guy.  He and his brothers had a great time chasing each other all over the kitten room, climbing the cat trees, and occasionally climbing the “walls” of the outdoor patio, where they could look down at the adult patios.  When he went to live with his “dad”, the two of them spent long hours together, and Finn became accustomed to the very quiet, “just Dad and me”,  environment.  Now he is in a totally new environment, still in the intake area, and we think the poor guy is confused, and a bit scared.  However, he’s just about ready to move to one of the kitten playrooms, where he can get lots of attention and have a small area where he can hear the shelter noises and see the people.  We think his true purrsonality will shine again with a more comfortable environment like he is used to.  He will probably do best in a single cat home.

O’HENRY

Snowshoe Siamese
Color: Sealpoint
Size: Large
Age: Adult
Special needs: none

O’Henry is a real hoot!! A big and beautiful fellow, he is your typical Snowshoe Siamese—sweet and loving, but feisty and vocal. Henry loves to go outside, and should have a safe enclosed yard or catio so he can get in his daily bird-watching and sun-bathing. Due to a prior leg injury that we have been treating, it is important that he be protected while the leg continues the healing process.

Henry needs a LOT of attention and play time–keeping in mind that he still shouldn’t be leaping and jumping as exuberantly as he might like! He is extremely strong and smart, and would be a great candidate for halter training. Very dog-like in his actions and manner, he will retrieve toys that you throw for him. Henry does get along with dogs, but definitely wants to be the only cat. He loves people, and he will follow you everywhere (quite a velcro boy)! He is very inquisitive, and would do well having a walkabout adventure in a harness.  He is vastly entertaining and interactive—a truly unique cat! If you have plenty of time and love to give, and are looking for a funny and interesting companion with whom to share your life, you will definitely want to meet our O’Henry!!

FROM THE HOME FRONT
TALES OF THE SAFE HAVEN KITTIES
BROUGHT TO YOU BY MERRY

WEEK 22:  THE VELCRO BOY

Hi everyone!

We have a big, sleek, handsome, very outgoing boy at the shelter, and I’d like to tell you about him. His name is O’Henry, and he’s what’s called a Snowshoe Siamese. He’s a seal point, and the main difference between a Snowshoe and a regular Siamese is pretty obvious. At least, it is when someone points it out! Snowshoes have white feet. Like snow. Get it?

Here’s a nice photo of O’Henry.  Take a look—you’ll see what I mean.

O’Henry really loves being outside. He goes out on his catio and lays in the sun and watches the birds for hours. Keeps him quite entertained. Which is a good thing, ‘cause he had a bad leg when he came here, and everyone wants to see him get better real soon so he can run and jump with the best of us. And he can’t do that until his leg is all better.

Even though he sometimes acts like a dog and talks real loud and real often, O’Henry is one cool cat. Nancy says he’s a “real hoot,” which is kinda funny, ‘cause he’s a cat, not an owl! So we’re lookin’ at an animal who looks like a cat, acts like a dog and sounds like … an owl? Maybe a screech owl? (I’m so funny!)

Lovingly,

FROM THE HOME FRONT
TALES OF THE SAFE HAVEN KITTIES
BROUGHT TO YOU BY MERRY

WEEK 21:  OUR NEW SENIOR CATIZEN

Hi everyone!

As much as we would like to get everything purrfect the first time, we all know that sometimes a kitty’s purrfect furever home isn’t … well … as purrfect as we would like.  Sometimes it’s a change in the caregiver’s situation, or the caregiver is no longer with us, or, much as we would like to get everything right, sometimes it’s just not a good fit.

She was adopted as a kitten, and had a good life until her human family went through some tough times.  Daisy ended up staying in an extra room, and wasn’t getting the amount of attention she was used to having.  And Daisy definitely needs attention.  She’s really a nice, friendly cat if you give her a chance to get to know you.

Fortunately, her person recognized that this was no longer a good situation for Daisy, and she brought her to Safe Haven so Daisy could find a better home—preferably a mature, single-cat home with no dogs.  You see, Daisy is really scared of dogs, and she actually attacks dogs who are nervous around cats.  I think people call that a defense mechanism.  Sounds right!

Daisy did live with another cat when she was younger, but she can be real bossy.  We think she will do best if she can find a nice home where she can be the Queen Bee and get lots of attention.  It needs to be a quiet home, ‘cause Daisy is afraid of loud noises.

After she had been at Safe Haven a couple of weeks, she was moved to a room on the first floor, and got to meet Finn.  You remember Finn from a couple of weeks ago?  He started out life as Blitzen and came back after he lost his “Dad”.  I think Finn and Daisy took a little time to get to know each other—they are both very shy—but then Finn was gone for a couple of days because he had to go to the vet and Daisy was the only one in her room.

FROM THE HOME FRONT
TALES OF THE SAFE HAVEN KITTIES
BROUGHT TO YOU BY MERRY

WEEK 20:  RHODES MOVES IN

Hi everyone!

Safe Haven is running real low on adoptable kitties! I bet you didn’t know that, if you haven’t been able to visit in a while. This has to be an all-time low, at least as far as I can remember, and I’ve been here almost three years!

So, this week I get to talk about some of the kitties we have had for a while, but don’t get too much written about them. Yes, I’m talking about the “Pole Barn 9,” a group of kitties that have been through some pretty rough times. They came from a place that people refer to as a “hoarding situation” where their caretaker passed away and the kitties had no one to care for them. They were either never socialized, or have been through so much that they are pretty scared of everything: humans, other kitties (‘specially ones they don’t know), other critters, things that go bump in the night … you get the idea! They arrived last September, so they’ve been here almost a year.

With the shelter relatively empty, our staff had a great opportunity to bring these kitties into some of the play rooms so they could see and hear people—and other cats—and maybe they could get over being so scared. And that turned into quite a project, ‘cause some of them are more scared than others!

The first one of the PB9, Garland, was lots less scared than the rest of the kitties. Remember him? I wrote about him in Week 9—Safe Haven’s Hall Monitor. He’s been inside the shelter for some time now, and some people are coming in a couple of weeks to meet him and maybe take him home! Wouldn’t that be great!

Last week Rhodes got to move to the main shelter! So that’s two!!

Rhodes is doing really well, ‘specially since no one could touch him for weeks! He’s a big orange and white tabby, and he’s gradually becoming much more comfortable at Safe Haven. He does tend to hide from people he doesn’t know, but if you spend enough time with him, he’ll come around … all the time! And when he decides that someone is a good cat person, he does actually relax, and enjoys being petted and scratched.

And if you don’t believe me, just take a look at the video that Nancy made! Nancy is what’s called the videographer. That’s a fancy word for “takes moving pictures.” I had to look that word up, ‘cause we have more than one Nancy and I had to make sure you knew which one I was talking about. And that “vid” word is a really long one. But it was pretty easy to find ‘cause it starts with the letters that it sounds like. Not like that long word for when you get a bad cold that gets worse … sounds like it should start with an “n” but actually starts with a “p”. Try looking that one up, ‘specially if you are a cat!

OK … I got off the subject. Sorry about that.

Anyway, I’m hoping that Rhodes continues to do really well with people. He’s a very handsome cat, and I think people will be impressed with him. He’s orange, too. People seem to like that. (I’m not sure why, ‘cause torties are the prettiest!) And pretty soon we will be able to bring in more of the Pole Barn 9, and I’ll write to you about them too.

Lovingly,

KOKO

Domestic Shorthair, Male
Color: Black
Size: Extra Large
Age: Adult
Special needs: none

Koko is a gentle giant of a kitty.  At 17 pounds, he could appear imposing, but he’s definitely not!  When you meet him, he greats you with a quiet “mew” rather than a giant-sized “MEOW”.  He has a glossy, ebony black coat, and sports eye-catching white whiskers.  He’s  a mellow fellow with a people-pleasing, laid back purrsonality.  A roommate to Twitchy and Bandy, he prefers observing their antics from his cat tree rather than joining in the fun. 

Koko has been mourning the loss of his owner, who died unexpectedly.  After he lost his human companion, he was turned out of his home and had to fend for himself.  Fortunately, a Good Samaritan fed him and contacted PFOA.  We are so happy to have this sweet boy!  He’s the type of quiet kitty who would love to watch TV stretched out next to his new person, and he’d like that person to come along soon.  Our big boy would love to have his own furrever home.

MISS PEPPER

Domestic Shorthair, Female
Color: Calico tabby
Size: Medium
Age: Adult
Special needs: none

Miss Pepper is a beautiful calico tabby with interesting markings and striking green/gold eyes.  Her fur is unusually soft and silky. She’s a very cool cat and easily adapts to changes in her environment. She is independent and will do well with either a retired couple or person(s) who work out of the home. Quite capable of entertaining herself when her people are gone, she nevertheless will be glad to have human company at the end of the day. Come meet our Miss Pepper!

PING PING

Domestic Shorthair, Female
Color: Black/white tuxedo
Size: Medium, but chubby!
Age: Young; born approx. June, 2018
Special needs: none

Ping Ping is a beautiful two year-old shorthair tuxedo who is a bit chubby at 13 pounds! However, there is a lot of activity here at the shelter, and with a bit of a diet and plenty of exercise she should soon regain her girlish figure.

Ping Ping came to us after her owner passed away, and she needed to find a new home.  Ping was quite worried and nervous her first few days at the shelter. Fortunately, when she gets to know and trust people, her naturally fun, sassy purrsonality comes out. We’ve seen her zoom around her room, hitting all her cat trees and finally coming to a resting spot on her chair (and watch people laughing!)  She likes to turn her head upside down in her bed and look at you. When she wants to be petted, she stands up on her hind legs, arches her back and rubs her head on your hand.

When someone comes to visit, she runs to the door for a meet and greet.  She sometimes gets meows, growls and hisses mixed up, especially with new people.  She loves getting attention, but you do have to watch her cat language.  An experienced, cat-saavy person, with no young children, indoor-only environment would work well for Ping Ping.  She’s a cat you will want to meet—whether or not she comes home with you, you’ll enjoy spending some time with this quirky and entertaining girl!!

BANDETTA C (BANDY)

Domestic Shorthair, Female
Color: Tortie (black/orange/white)
Size: Large
Age: Adult
Special needs: none

Bandy and Twitchy are sweet six-year young bonded siblings.  Bandy was named Bandetta C, and Twitchy II was named after his pops, Twitchy I.  Their mom, who first met the pair when they were three hours old, gave them their unique names.  Sadly, their mom had to bring them to Safe Haven when she moved to live with family after her husband passed.

Bandy is the more calculating, serious, guarded of the pair, but her serious look is just for show.  She is a very sweet girl.  As a tortie will, Bandy tends to be the boss in the room, which is fine with her brother.  Twitchy is the more vocal, airy one – in contrast to his sister, he’s an open book.  And he’s also very sweet and loving.  They are considered large kitties, and although they are getting along well with their roommate, Koko, they will probably do best if they are the only cats in their future home.

They love wet food, and will come to the dinner plate when served.  They have been known to give kisses to their human before eating.  They are inquisitive kitties who are on a mission to check out everything in their new playroom.  They pretend they are camping out in their blanket tent, waiting for tuna s’mores.  So be careful before you sit down!

They have had protected outdoor exposure by the ocean all of their lives, and they love their cattery here at the shelter.  They have figured out the cat door that lets them enjoy the sun in the fully enclosed catio, and will even share catio space with visitors.  They have been providing great rodent control for the occasional mouse who ventures into the shelter.  Silly mice!  And they both have been somewhat curious about the new, very vocal Siamese next door.  But, as with everything else, they are easily adapting to all the changes in their lives.  This entertaining pair will keep you laughing at their antics and returning your love.  Contact us for an appointment to meet and greet these two remarkable cats.

TWITCHY II (TWITCHY)

Domestic Shorthair, Male
Color: Tuxedo (black/white)
Size: Large
Age: Adult
Special needs: none

Bandy and Twitchy are sweet six-year young bonded siblings.  Bandy was named Bandetta C, and Twitchy II was named after his pops, Twitchy I.  Their mom, who first met the pair when they were three hours old, gave them their unique names.  Sadly, their mom had to bring them to Safe Haven when she moved to live with family after her husband passed.

Bandy is the more calculating, serious, guarded of the pair, but her serious look is just for show.  She is a very sweet girl.  As a tortie will, Bandy tends to be the boss in the room, which is fine with her brother.  Twitchy is the more vocal, airy one – in contrast to his sister, he’s an open book.  And he’s also very sweet and loving.  They are considered large kitties, and although they are getting along well with their roommate, Koko, they will probably do best if they are the only cats in their future home.

They love wet food, and will come to the dinner plate when served.  They have been known to give kisses to their human before eating.  They are inquisitive kitties who are on a mission to check out everything in their new playroom.  They pretend they are camping out in their blanket tent, waiting for tuna s’mores.  So be careful before you sit down!

They have had protected outdoor exposure by the ocean all of their lives, and they love their cattery here at the shelter.  They have figured out the cat door that lets them enjoy the sun in the fully enclosed catio, and will even share catio space with visitors.  They have been providing great rodent control for the occasional mouse who ventures into the shelter.  Silly mice!  And they both have been somewhat curious about the new, very vocal Siamese next door.  But, as with everything else, they are easily adapting to all the changes in their lives.  This entertaining pair will keep you laughing at their antics and returning their love.  Contact us for an appointment to meet and greet these two remarkable cats.

MEGAN

Megan was a gorgeous Maine Coon, whom we adopted out as a kitten in 2000. She returned to us when her “mom” passed away and her “dad” could no longer care for her. This sweet, but a bit shy girl, was exceptionally bonded to her elderly person and loved to snuggle in her lap and cuddle with her in the sewing room. She was in early renal insufficiency, and we gave her sub-q fluids once a week.

When Magnificent Megan’s needs because too great for shelter life, she moved to a wonderful permanent foster home, where she was dearly loved.  We are happy that she was blessed to spend her last year surrounded by love, and given every comfort.  She crossed the Rainbow Bridge on March 26, 2019.  She is greatly missed by her foster family, as well as her many friends at PFOA.

GEORGE

Domestic Shorthair, Male
Color: Brown/white tabby
Size: Large
Age: Adult
Special needs: none

George is a sweet, gentle cat who is reserved until he gets to know you – then he is happy to share his love and be your best buddy.  George would like a quiet peaceful home where he would be the center of attention, but he does get along with cat-friendly dogs and other cat-loving felines.  He would love to find his purrfect forever home so he can curl up and sleep right next to his favorite person.

MIKE

Domestic Shorthair, Male
Color: Black
Size: Medium
Age: Young
Special needs: none

Mike is a very sweet, young cat, with a boyish meow and beautiful silky long fur. He was on his own until he found a house with a kitty door, started going in and out, and adopted the people who lived there. Joining an existing family of cats, he got along well with all of them, and loved his human friends, too. The only problem was that one cat did NOT get along with him, so his people brought him to Safe Haven knowing he would find a great home.

At about 11 pounds, Mike never met a meal he didn’t like–he is definitely not picky about what he eats. His ideal forever home would have other kitties he could make friends with, and an enclosed catio where they could all enjoy nice weather together.

LACIE

Domestic Shorthair, Female
Color: Brown/white tabby
Size: Large
Age: Senior
Special needs: declawed

Lacie and her sister Lucie are bonded 12 year-old kitties. When 8 year-old Suzie joined their household, they adopted her as their kitten.  The three cats are very sweet and friendly.  When a person’s lap is handy, all three of them want to be in it – at once!  They have never been around children, but have had two small dogs in their lives. They are now looking for their new forever home together.

LUCIE

Domestic Shorthair, Female
Color: Brown/white tabby
Size: Large
Age: Senior
Special needs: declawed

Lucie and her sister Lacie are bonded 12 year-old kitties. When 8 year-old Suzie joined their household, they adopted her as their kitten.  The three cats are very sweet and friendly.  When a person’s lap is handy, all three of them want to be in it – at once!  They have never been around children, but have had two small dogs in their lives. They are now looking for their new forever home together.

SPATZI

Domestic Shorthair, Male
Color: Brown w/white
Size: large
Born: January 12, 2005
Special needs: none

These two boys, while not brothers in the strictest sense of the word, are very bonded to each other. Spatzi is a beautiful Siamese mix, and his companion of the last ten years is Spanky, a very handsome tuxedo cat. These are two of the gentlest souls you will ever meet. They are the text book example of well-behaved, loving cats. Spatzi is the more outgoing of the two, often greeting you at the door with a friendly meow and a leg rub. Spanky tends to be more laid back, often lounging in a bed or cat tree. He is easily approachable and loves to be petted and fawned over. Spatzi is in early renal insufficiency and is easily maintained with the fluids he is given twice weekly.  Come and meet these two handsome boys and you will discover their purrfect personalities for yourself!

SPANKY

Domestic Shorthair, Male
Color: Black w/White (Tuxedo)
Size: Medium
Born: July 1, 2008 (approx)
Special needs: none

These two boys, while not brothers in the strictest sense of the word, are very bonded to each other. Spatzi is a beautiful Siamese mix, and his companion of the last ten years is Spanky, a very handsome tuxedo cat. These are two of the gentlest souls you will ever meet. They are the text book example of well-behaved, loving cats. Spatzi is the more outgoing of the two, often greeting you at the door with a friendly meow and a leg rub. Spanky tends to be more laid back, often lounging in a bed or cat tree. He is easily approachable and loves to be petted and fawned over. Spanky has diabetes and receives twice daily insulin shots, but is quite well regulated.  Come and meet these two handsome boys and you will discover their purrfect personalities for yourself!

PURCHASE OUR POTHOLDERS!

Our potholders are POPULAR! They come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, primarily dog and cat prints, flowers, tea and coffee, kitchen and garden themes. They make excellent gifts, or buy them for your own kitchen. They come in sets of two, and are made of sturdy cotton fabrics with a mylar heat-shield center. For pricing, check with the vendor of your choice, listed below. You can find them at:

• Safe Haven, on Highway 101 between Sequim and Port Angeles, (360) 452-0414 (Tuesday through Saturday, 11am – 4pm)
• Hair Trix Salon, 21 Valley Center Place in Carlsborg, (360) 681-3749 (Monday through Friday, 9am – noon)
• Mia Bella, 130 N 3rd Ave in Sequim, (360) 460-0947 (Tuesday through Thursday, 10am – 4pm)
• Old Post Office Sweets & Gifts, 751 Carlsborg Road in Carlsborg, (360) 681-8014 (Tuesday through Saturday, 8am – 5pm).
• Wild Birds Unlimited, 275953 Hwy 101 in Gardiner (Mon – Sun, 9am – 6pm, (360) 797-7100 (9am – 6pm daily)
• George Washington Inn, 939 Finn Hall Road in Port Angeles, (360) 452-5207
• Jardin du Soleil Lavender, 3932 Sequim Dungeness Way in Sequim, (360) 582-1185 (Mon-Sun 5am – 9pm)
  
• Country Aire, 200 W 1st St, Port Angeles, WA 98362, (360) 452-7175 (8am – 8pm daily)
• Patricia’s Pet Shop, 501 S Lincoln St, Port Angeles, WA 98362, (360) 457-6919 (Mon – Fri, 10am – 6pm; Sat 9am – 5pm)
• Hardy’s Market, 10200 Old Olympic Hwy, Sequim, WA 98382, (360) 582-0240 (Mon – Sun, 6am – 9pm)

If you have a favorite fabric and would like to order custom potholders, contact Safe Haven at (360) 452-0414.  We will do our very best to accommodate you.

CATNIP & SIP at our new venue: Fox Bell, April 6, 2019
EVENT PHOTOS

LUCY-ALICE

Shorthair Manx, Female
Color:  Calico Tabby
Size:  Medium
Born:  October 8, 2010 (approx)
Special needs:  Manx Syndrome (mild)

Lucy-Alice is an adorable, outgoing little short-hair calico mackerel tabby Manx with a white bib and green eyes. Born in October of 2010, Lucy-Alice was originally adopted from Safe Haven as a kitten. She returned to Safe Haven in March of 2014. She is very sweet and loving, craves attention, and is a gentle soul.

She did not display symptoms of Manx Syndrome, a condition affecting many Manx cats, until she was a year and a half old, and her issues are relatively mild. She loves having visitors, and thrives on the attention readily given to her. She is such a sweetheart and so full of love for people that it’s hard to leave after spending time with her. While we still hope that Lucy may find her own family to love and care for her, it is not likely. So, for the rest of her days, Lucy will enjoy her life with her beloved caregiver in the sunny warm rooms of Barker House.

BOO

Domestic Shorthair, Female
Color: Black/white
Size: Medium
Born: October, 2011 (approx)
Special needs: none

Peeka and Boo are a bonded pair of sisters with a sad history.  Trapped as older feral kittens, we worked very hard to socialize them so they could find homes.   Adopted out as teenagers, they were soon returned when their folks moved.  Then after four years with an elderly lady who loved them and respected their bond, that home was lost when their owner passed away.  Boo has turned out to be a lovely, social cat who is quite adaptable.  She is easily approachable, friendly and sweet.  She is the rock that anchors her sister, Peeka, so we would like to see this pair be adopted together. 

BETHANY

Domestic Shorthair, Female
Color: Tortie
Size: Medium
Age: Senior
Special needs: Kidney disorder requiring fluids twice a week

Bethany is a beautiful blue tortie who is very sweet natured and has a wonderful personality to go with her good looks. Bethany previously shared a home with some golden retrievers so she is a cat who has demonstrated the ability to get along well with dogs. If you are a fancier of tortie girls you will want to meet our Bethany. She is quite the charmer and totally irresistible!

PHOENIX

Domestic Longhair, Male
Color: Black
Size: Medium
Special needs: none

A beautiful pair of black cats seeking a good indoor home, that’s our Nyla and Phoenix. Originally adopted from PFOA almost nine years ago, the bonded pair was recently returned because of a change in circumstance of their owner.  Nyla is the older of the two at 10 years and Phoenix is a year younger. They have been together since Phoenix was a kitten, living together in the tack room of a fancy barn with access to an enclosed catio. From their catio they were able to interact through the fence with livestock and some friendly dogs on the property.

Both of them may seem a little shy upon first meeting them but once they get to know you, they are affectionate and loving kitties that love being groomed and fawned over as they so deserve.  Phoenix is a black longhair male with expressive green-gold eyes.  Both Nyla and Phoenix really love being brushed and given attention.  The two are best buddies and must be adopted together.  Come and meet this outstanding pair! 

NYLA

Domestic Shorthair, Female
Color: Black
Size: Medium
Special needs: none

A beautiful pair of black cats seeking a good indoor home, that’s our Nyla and Phoenix. Originally adopted from PFOA almost nine years ago, the bonded pair was recently returned because of a change in circumstance of their owner.  Nyla is the older of the two at 10 years and Phoenix is a year younger. They have been together since Phoenix was a kitten, living together in the tack room of a fancy barn with access to an enclosed catio. From their catio they were able to interact through the fence with livestock and some friendly dogs on the property.

Both of them may seem a little shy upon first meeting them but once they get to know you, they are affectionate and loving kitties that love being groomed and fawned over as they so deserve.  Nyla is the more outgoing of the two.  She is a black shorthair female with huge round green-gold eyes.  Both Nyla and Phoenix really love being brushed and given attention.  The two are best buddies and must be adopted together.  Come and meet this outstanding pair! 

PATRICK

Siamese, male
Color: Sealpoint with white mittens
Size: Large
Born: January, 2007 (approx)
Special needs: Hyperthyroid, stage 3 kidney failure

Pat the Cat was left out in the cold when his owners passed away.  A good Samaritan give him a place to stay on his way to Safe Haven.  Pat is a handsome Sealpoint Siamese.  He is in stage 3 kidney failure and requires fluids daily.

MEGAN

Domestic Shorthair, Female
Color: Brown tabby
Size: Medium
Age: Young
Special needs: none

Megan is almost two years old. She is a beautiful, very affectionate girl who loves to have her soft, silky coat brushed. She came from an older woman who lavished her with attention. Consequently, Megan really loves being with people, loves to cuddle and sit on her person’s lap. She has not been with children, and an adult household would probably be preferable. She really is a perfect companion for any household.

SUZIE

Domestic Shorthair, Female
Color: Gray
Size: Medium
Age: Adult
Special needs: declawed

Suzie is a sweet 8 year-old female who has spent most of her life with Lacie and Lucie. The three of them are bonded and need to find a home together.  Because Suzie is younger than the sisters, Lacie and Lucie consider Suzie their kitten.  The trio has never been around children, but they have had two small dogs in their lives.

FROM THE HOME FRONT
TALES OF THE SAFE HAVEN KITTIES
BROUGHT TO YOU BY MERRY

WEEK 8:  THE GIRLS MOVE DOWNSTAIRS

Hi everyone!

Remember a couple of weeks ago when I reported about all the good news at the shelter?  Well, with all the resident kitties leaving for their forever homes, the shelter is … how shall I say … kinda quiet!  But, I hear that new friends are on their way to Safe Haven!  Room B2 downstairs is empty, ‘cause each of the three bonded pairs (Hollis and Blue, Jackie and Dubbs, and Ariel and Brewster) found their forever home together.  So, I’m working my way down the shelter, and find that B3 now has new kitties.  Well, maybe not “new” – Lacie, Lucie and Suzie moved from their room upstairs (normally a kitten room) to B3 after Hannah and Bethany left.

If you remember, Bethany was getting fluids twice a week, and everyone felt that she would be happier at Barker House with other kitties like her.  And Hannah – she found the nicest home with a lady who is a first-time cat owner and fell head over heels for Hannah.  From the reports we get, we think Hannah feels the same way.

OK … back to LL&S.  Now that they have moved downstairs, the girls have a wonderful catio where they can spend outdoor time (when it isn’t raining, ‘cause Lucie does NOT like to get her feet wet!)  They really love their outdoor time – on the hot days they can roll around and lay on the cool ground.  And they have a neighbor in the catio next to them.  Garland moved from the Pole Barn building to B4.  He’s learned to trust people again and is very friendly and enjoys petting and attention. And, being a very handsome bachelor cat, he naturally attracted the attention of the girls.  Well, maybe not ALL of them.  Lacie and Suzie have been kinda flirty with him, but Lucie thinks that boys stink and she’s not having anything to do with him.

The girls have had a lot of fun watching the birds and deer in the bushes around the catio.  That keeps them very busy, and they spend lots of time doing it.

I hear that they love it when people read to them.  But, when they just sit still and listen to books for long periods of time, they don’t really get enough exercise.  At least it seems like that.  Staff is really careful not to use the “f” word, but all three kitties are just a tad bit pudgy!  I think Suzie is doing a little better than her two older sisters – one of the volunteers mentioned that Suzie looked like she had lost a little weight after she moved downstairs.  And she is the most active of the three – she loves to play that game with the ball in the round scratcher.  I think she’s taking advantage of all the new activities.  And, of course, there IS the handsome bachelor next door!

I know they miss seeing all of you.  As you know, they are all very affectionate.  They rub against you and love to be petted.  We are all hoping that the shelter can reopen soon.  Staff is not exactly sure what the “new normal” will look like for Safe Haven.  Everyone is using that term these days – we kitties are wondering exactly what it means.  I’m sure we will find out – sooner or later.

Hope it’s sooner, ‘cause we miss you!

Lovingly,