To the rescue: cats and dogs : In Memory of Colette

To the rescue: cats and dogs

Carol Hawn-Miller and Cindy Liggett are local animal advocates who work to save the lives of homeless cats and dogs. In 2001 they founded Kitty and K-9 Connection, a non-profit rescue/foster/adoption program. In this blog, they will discuss the issues around the numerous homeless cats and dogs in Anchorage, and the process of placement, including animal and human behaviors that lead to success or failure. They are pictured here with Gladys on Carol's knee, Cherri in the middle, and Ambrosia the cat on Cindy's lap.

Contributors

Cindy Liggett

Because she's a "cat person," Cindy concentrates on cat rescues, fosters and adoptions. She faces daily attitudes towards cats as "throw-away pets" and deals with issues regarding "unwanted" cats due to over-population. She has advocated on their behalf for over 20 years and enjoys sharing her knowledge and insights so cats can enjoy their nine lives in the manner they truly deserveas an important member of the family.

Carol Hawn-Miller

Carol loves being the "dog mom" to all kinds and varieties -- small to large; mutts or purebreds. At home she deals with an ever transitional pack as she rescues, fosters and adopts dogs that would not otherwise have a "new leash on life." She has been doing pet rescue for more than 14 years. While loaded with a lap full of dogs, covered in dog hair or accepting K-9 kisses, Carol advocates for permanent, lifetime homes and responsible ownership so rescue will no longer be a necessity.

Sue Wirth

Sue is the other cat mom who takes in fosters and gets them ready for adoption. She has been doing cat rescue since 1998. To help control reproduction of unwanted pets, Sue advocates with a local veterinarian to spay/neuter cats as young as 8 weeks old before they go to their forever homes. She would like to see an end to full Animal Shelters, euthanasia and a home for every pet.

Emily Brand

Emily joins us as a guest blogger from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) to raise awareness about issues affecting companion animals in Anchorage and the surrounding area. She shares the ASPCA�s mission to prevent animal cruelty and provide positive outcomes for at-risk animals across the country. Emily hopes to encourage people to be a voice for animals by doing something to help people understand the importance of treating animals with the love and respect they deserve.

Multimedia

VIDEO

First Aid for pets

Robin Newby of the American Red Cross of Alaska teaches pet first aid. In this video of a recent class, she describes the focus and some of the techniques. Find schedules of ongoing classes at "The Red Cross"

Resources

ALASKA LOCAL

Alaska Dog News

In Memory of Colette

Posted by animalrescue

Posted: October 30, 2009 - 12:17 pm

by Carol

Colette Colette

Once I was a stray, wandering the streets alone.
Starved and cold, I waited for someone to care.
Days went by…I became only skin and bone.
Venturing out occasionally only when I dare.

Eventually I was found and taken to Animal Control
Where concerned employees gave me a comfy little bed.
Soft food was served to me in a shiny little bowl.
I did not eat or feel secure…no matter what they said.

I received lots comforting words and loving care.
And when my stray days were up, rescue stepped in.
A vet check and consultation…my prognosis was “fair”.
To NOT give me a chance would be a sin.

Three weeks of medication, love and great food
In the foster care of Larry and Marilyn…they were great.
My health slightly improved, which brightened my mood.
There was still much concern about my fate.

My mouth was infected…a dental I needed
If I could eat better, I might begin to heal.
Altho’ it was risky, the vet recommendation was heeded.
Anything to improve my health would be a deal.

I made it through surgery…recovery was tough.
Prognosis was “better” but time would only tell.
The next day I crashed…hanging on to life’s cuff.
Kidney function ended quickly…everyone’s heart fell.

The Rainbow Bridge I did cross
Now I am free of worry and pain
Altho’ my foster parents feel the loss
I’m now prancing and dancing down “Doggy Heaven” lane.

So much was done to save just one life.
I sincerely appreciate all that was done for me.
My final days held no loneliness and strife.
And now I am as free as free can be!

Thank you for making my rescue possible.
Believe me…It was a success in many ways.
My last few weeks, I was very loved and happy…
and I died peacefully…held in warm, loving arms!

Remember:
"You can't change the world by adopting one animal,
but you can change the world for that one animal!"
Author Unknown