I can’t pass up the chance to share with people how much joy for life and unconditional love these two boys, Geoffrey and Jake, have added to the Farrell & Huebner household. They’ve even managed to win over Deja (the dog) as well as everyone they meet, whether a cat lover or not.

When I first got the call that kittens had been left on a doorstep in Brewerytown, I had no idea how tiny these fellows really were! I offer profound thanks to the wonderful network in the Philadelphia area including the Girard Avenue Veterinary Clinic, and the love and devotion of foster mom Carlene McCarthy, who stepped in to bridge a two week gap before I could physically take these babies home. I am eternally grateful that they all worked so hard to make this adoption happen. We are one big happy family. These boys couldn’t be any sweeter or more loving. AND, just to reinforce their value to the household, they have already caught their first mouse! Should be the last one brave enough to enter.

Recently the boys convinced us that they needed a bit more fresh air than just from the window screens. It isn’t finished yet but already they love their cat-io… a cat door leading into an outside 3’x4’ former dog crate, turned into a outdoor lounge! We hope to actually build something bigger and better next year.

Thanks to Kathy Jordon and her Green Street Rescue, and to the Philly Cats organization. After volunteering at the SPCA and witnessing the outstanding efforts they make to the cats of the city, we will definitely volunteer again and again. “Saving one cat may not change the world… but surely it will change the world for one cat.” Couldn’t be happier that the world was changed for Geoffrey and Jake. They’ve changed my world for the better too.

Rae Huebner, Abington, PA

When my parents were young, their families always had a dog. They always had that special little critter who can never say hi to you fast enough, and loves every moment they get with you. Since my parents have started their own family, it only made sense to get a dog!

We for a long time had looked everywhere; online and in several shelters. Eventually, my dad came across an elderly woman with a dog named Hetty (short for Harriet). Hetty was a retired show dog, and was kept with several other dogs. She hadn't gotten a lot of personal attention, and was kind of just left there. We decided that she would make a lovely addition to our family, so we paid the elderly woman and brought Hetty home.

It took Hetty a little while to get used to us. Obviously, we were all new people to her, but she got in the swing of things pretty fast. Sadly however, in my case, she hasn't quite gotten used to me. It's sort of funny at times because of how she reacts, but I'm sure I'll grow on her eventually.

I'm definitely glad that we got Hetty. She has made a wonderful addition to our family, and currently enjoys being pampered with love (unless, sadly, it comes from me), watching movies with the family, and chilling with my brothers while they play video games!

Ian Penrod - Overland Park, KS

This gaze can mean only one thing - the food dish is empty. Again. Scrawny little Savannah, formerly known as Buttercup, Zoom Zoom, Nastia, and Here Kitty, has outgrown most of her former names as well as the scrawniness. She still zooms from room to room, especially to get through a door that is closing with intent to keep her out. True to Bengal mix tradition, she continues to "fly" from floor to counter top and from counter to top of fridge to top of cupboards despite her current portly state. She loves her duck, that's for sure.


Connie Schrag - Overland Park, KS