Simon's Cat in 'The Box'

Cats Playing Patty Cake

Happy New Year.

What happened? It's 2011 already! Thanks to those of you who have not given up on Animal Crack. I plan to do better this year by bringing all the muddy slobbery stories from the trails and beyond.
I continue to be humbled by the love and joy these incredible animals bring to those of us that pay attention. I hope you continue to join me in celebrating their lives and the lessons that quite frankly we could learn a thing or two from. How about starting with "Surprised Kitty"?

Cats

Cat Talk

For all you cat lovers- look familiar?

A good day to snuggle

Meet Earnest (top) Julio (left) and Bella (right)
For 16 years it was Ernest and Julio. Littermates, brothers, best friends, and partners in crime. Ernest and Julio were inseperable. For the past year plus Ernest had been living with an illness that affected his mood and appetite. Julio was his constant companion. A little over a month ago Ernest passed away. Everyone was heartbroken but none more so than Julio. I was told Julio walked through the house calling out for his brother day and night sometimes howling from the pain of his loss. Debra and Brian did everything they could to try and help him adjust. Food therapy, lots of attention, tons of cuddling but nothing seemed to be working. Last week (with alot of uncertainty) they made the decision to get another cat. Meet Bella. A one year old Berkeley stripe. They found her at the Berkeley Animal Shelter. Julio was mortified. His wailing and howling turned into hissing and growling. Bella ignored him. She gave Julio his space - occasionally offering her friendship. Each day was a little less hostile. Finally this morning Julio gave in to the sweetness of his new friend. Although Bella will never replace Ernest hopefully she will help fill the emptiness in Julio's heart. Looks like they are off to a good start.