Fall Fashion – November Sanctuary Update
Hi Everyone!
I know there’s many out there lamenting the disappearance of the warm weather and sunny days. But there is at least one thing to look forward to with the dropping of the temperature: dressing up the animals!! We’re going to take this month to show off some of the stylish looks on display around the sanctuary right now.
While dressing up our furry friends is lots of fun, it is also often motivated by necessities. A number of our dog residents are highly sensitive to the cold for different reasons. For instance, Scout had an ear surgery years ago that has left him with no hearing in one ear and with reduced responsiveness. We noticed that ear getting very cold even in moderate chills, so we were able to get him accustomed to wearing these adorable hats. They’ve helped him be much more comfortable year round.
And sometimes it’s just a matter of age that makes the dogs more sensitive to the cold. Some of our star seniors like Gidget, Princess, and Miel really appreciate the extra layer when winter starts to add a bite to the air. You can also see Miel here modeling her adorable winter boots. As she’s gotten older, her skin has gotten a bit dryer and more sensitive on her feet. The booties really help her and other dogs here keep their toes from cracking and bleeding.
Then we have our more specific and peculiar clothing needs. We often rely on a nice fitting T-shirt to help keep dogs from injuring their post-surgery incision sites, like Greta here. Or there’s Neptune, who wears his flashy attire to keep him from chewing his skin while treatment for his severe allergies progresses. And who doesn’t feel cooler wearing a stylish T-shirt? Functional and fashionable are the name of the couture game at the Our Companions Sanctuary.
Vinny’s View
Well, we couldn’t let this November update go by without a little talk of Thanksgiving. Given that this whole place exists because of how generously so many people give of their time, skill, and money, gratitude is a cornerstone of our environment day in and day out. The support for the work we do here is overwhelming. We have an army of volunteers here caring for animals in deep need and with very specific requirements, not only being generous with their time, but with their patience and attention as well. Then, there are our volunteers who help keep up the property and buildings, giving their strength and effort to make sure we have everything we need to care for these animals. And then there’s all the people who make sanctuary magic possible without setting foot here or getting the reward of doggies kisses or kitty purrs. Our donors, board members, and professional partners provide immense support, not only financially, but in terms of experience and expertise. It makes a huge difference in our ability to function as a well-organized and professional enterprise. With so many people contributing in so many ways, the only possible response is overwhelming gratitude. Thank you all!
And of Course…Adoptions!!
November has definitely had some exciting intake and adoption activity. After the trio of adoptions in September and October, the dog team welcomed in our new handsome man Dug this month. In cats, adorable Mitzi went home while Violet, Dexter, and Greyson joined the gang. And the little ones having been flying out the door at Suzanne’s Place. Chinchillas Yin and Yang, rats Olive and Mimzy, hamster Calypso, Zeus the mouse, and guinea pigs Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup all went home in November. I guess the word has gotten out that Our Companions is the place to go for little furry friends!
Lastly, I’d like to take a moment to recognize some losses here at the sanctuary in November. Shiloh was a long time resident at the sanctuary with a big personality and lots of fans. Shiloh was a bit older when she arrived and her health was never great, including some issues with her gait. But she never let her health problems slow her down, showing enthusiasm and affection, with a little bit of attitude mixed in, to all who interacted with her. When her health took a sudden downturn, we knew it was time to let her go. She will be missed by everyone.
We also lost one of our tiniest friends this month, the little mouse, Zim. Obviously, these little ones are more fragile and their passing more frequent, but we never let that diminish our care and concern for them as individuals. Zim had a special personality that endeared him to many. When he was diagnosed with a tumor, it was difficult, but we cared for him as best we could in the short time he had. He definitely made an impression here.
Thank you all so much for whatever way you support us and our mission. We couldn’t do it without you.
Jon Phillips
Sanctuary Director