Update on the new "teenage" feline house

    Good morning!  As some of you know, the shelter is always overflowing with cats and dogs.  This past year has been especially difficult for cats.  Since we didn't have any extra space in our main building itself, and at this time remodeling is not possible, we came up with an alternative.  We did have space on the grounds for a portable building, and we received some terrific donations to pay for renovating the structure for a cat colony house.
    After a somewhat slow start, I have finally gotten electricians and a handyman here to help us with the final product.  In the last two weeks, the building has been electrified, the insulation, drywall, and painting are done, and the new doors and flooring ordered.  Paul Kelly, (husband of GSHS's own Tracellen Kelly, our thrift store manager extraordinaire!) has done a beautiful job finishing out the inside of the building. He also designed and built in ramps and shelving so that cats can climb, runaround and play.  I know my own cats would love to have a shelf running around my house!  We all agree the cats are going to love it.
    There's still some work to be done, but I am optimistic that we will have our "teens" settled in the new house before the Doggie Style Show on November 19th.  Having this new facility will not increase the number of cats we can house, but it will provide a better living environment for cats than the kennels, and it will also allow us to finally keep our intake isolation and sick quarantine rooms separate.  Our goal is to be able to improve the health and care of our cats.
  Once the unit is ready for occupancy, I plan to host an Open House and let folks come see this shiny new space.  I think everyone will be quite pleased.  This project would not be possible without the support of many, many people, including our wonderful Board of Directors, our financial supporters, and Good Shepherd members.  Thanks to everyone!
 
    Speaking of cats, I'd like to introduce you to two of our resident cats. 

First, meet Holly.  Holly is a beautiful girl, but she is quite an independent lady!  She is definitely the queen of cats, and she would prefer to be in a home where she could adored (translated--she doesn't  play well with other kitties.)  Holly loves people, especially kids, She was a hit with the 4th, 5th, and 6th graders from Clear Springs School when the kids came to the shelter to volunteer.  Holly would love to find her forever family.  She's been with us here since January 1, 2011.

This next girl is Samantha.  Sam came to the shelter on July 12, an owner surrender.  She is a senior at 14 years old, and she had a bad case of fleas and flea related issues.  However, with a little treatment and TLC, she has done fabulous!  Other than the fleas, she was in excellent health.  As you can see, she loves to be petted, or scratched under the chin.  She's a little timid when you first approach her, but that's because she is shy!  Samantha would be an excellent companion for someone who wants company.  She is not hyperactive--she likes sleeping in her little padded bed, enjoying some sunshine, and getting a rub once in a while.  Samantha would be a great "senior for a senior" if you know anyone looking for an awesome companion.  

  We have lots more wonderful dogs and cats here at Good Shepherd. If you're looking to add a new member to your family, please call or come visit us.  We're open every day from noon until 5 pm except for Wednesdays!  We'd love to show you around.