It has been a good summer for AA&A: the Dog Show turned out to be a great success, despite an attempted sabotage by the suppliers of a non-operational PA system; both shops continue to do well and the ad hoc fund-raising days at local fairs and fetes have all been fruitful, both financially and in terms of raising awareness.
Despite a shortage of fieldworkers, we worked our way steadily through the influx of kittens whilst Marilyn Dyson managed to find the time to rescue a steady supply of some of the most disreputable cats imaginable: one-eyed, one-legged, starving, dirty, sick, injured or a full house, she brought them in, patched them up and counted them out! Grateful thanks, as always, to our friends at Rhodes Minnis for helping out.
As ever at this time of year, the number of adult cats looking for a home is legion - the free supply of kittens in recent months followed by the holiday season have almost dried up the demand for anything older and, just in case you thought we could ease up, it's going to be a long autumn/winter.
More fosterers would help to ease the pressure - do you know anyone who might consider this? It's the perfect solution for someone who wants a cat but is unsure of their long-term plans, and is immensely rewarding.
Many thanks to those of you who took the trouble to write with your views on using part of our resources to help those cats who wouldn't qualify on a strict cost/benefit analysis. Mr F's reply was typical: "My preference is wholeheartedly for the individual case". Thank you, also, Mr F for your generous donation. We promise it will be put to good use - particularly if Marilyn has anything to do with it!
J.G. reminded us of the dangers of the purely economic approach, by email:
"You've asked for feedback on "The Eternal Dilemma". I am in favour of helping the difficult, expensive cases. They are all individuals - the moment we lose sight of that, we start on the slippery slope that leads to regarding all sentient beings in terms of their "usefulness" - and where might that lead us?
Congratulations on the website, it is brilliant: easy on the eye, appealing, fun to use and informative. All my friends know about it now!
Thank you for all the wonderful work you do."
Nice to know we are on the right track J.G. - we couldn't resist including your reply in full, even if modesty should forbid!
We promise to continue trying to balance our work, and manage our finances, with an eye to both the needy individual and the bigger picture.
This was the first Dog Show we had been involved in organising and, naturally, we were apprehensive about how it would go, particularly as over twenty other charities had taken stalls and needed to have a successful day. The weather was reasonable early morning (great sighs of relief) and the amenity groups supplying the tables, chairs and other equipment hove into view on Highbury Fields at the right time (even greater sighs of relief!). The fact that the P.A. system was defective wasn't immediately apparent, but that did cause us major headaches throughout the day.
However, the dogs started arriving, and what lovely and varied specimens they were. Over 100 were finally registered, in 25 classes, which is a very pleasing result. We were very honoured to have Cllr Doreen Scott, the Mayor of Islington, open the show and we were delighted that she spent most of the afternoon with us and agreed to judge the "Best Dog in the Borough of Islington" Class. Her choice fell on "Max", a four year old Akita belonging to Robert Stuhldreer of Holloway. The "Best Rescue" Class was judged by our President, Mrs Carole Hill, M.R.C.V.S and she chose "Schumi", a seven-year-old Lurcher belonging to Kevan Lambert of Stanmore. "Schumi" was homed with Kevan by the National Animal Welfare Trust, Watford after being taken into care by them from an Animal Pound in Wales. "Tschumi"'s other claim to fame is that he has appeared in commercials for Curry's. As well as the classes, we were given excellent demonstrations of Heel Work to Music by Martin Briggs and an Agility Display by the Northwick Park Agility Club, both of which are always firm favourites. Sue Evans officiated over the Good Citizen Dog Scheme Awards. Guest appearances were made by Francis Wilson, the Met. Weatherman and Trevor Grove, author of "One Dog and His Man". It was lovely to have a really appealing Appeal Dog - Mabel, the Jack Russell from Mabel's Place , NW6 (with Tom in tow). Not only did Mabel go round with a collecting-box but she also donated most of the food prizes for the contestants. Thank you, Mabel.
A very special guest appearance was made by "Tot", a Yorkie who is a Hearing Dog for Deaf People and who has become a celebrity in the area. Hearing Dogs are trained to help deaf people by reacting to sounds and alerting their owners to doorbells and 'phones ringing, to alarms and untoward occurrences. "Tot" did more than this. One night when "Tot"'s owner, Mrs Julia Slater was asleep, her husband collapsed in the bathroom. Sensing something was wrong, "Tot" woke up Mrs Slater and guided her to the bathroom. An ambulance was called and Mr Slater recovered in hospital. "Tot" looked as pleased as Punch with the maroon rosette we gave him, which matched nicely his working coat, and was even more pleased with his packet of treats!
All in all it was a very successful day. It remains to thank everyone involved in getting the show off the ground and to Dima Yeremenko and the Good Boy Dog School for running the classes and organising the displays. Our grateful thanks also go to the Judges, Stewards, registration clerks and messengers, to Imran Hasan for struggling heroically with the P.A. system, our traffic stewards, stallholders and drivers, and, of course, our sponsors who helped to make the event a financial success.
Porgy - A small short-haired female, black with a white chin, toes, bib and whiskers, approximately six years old. Very shy in the beginning and hid under the table for the first few weeks but is much better now. She will still need gentleness but loves a cuddle, is very affectionate and likes to sleep on your pillow and will purr - purr - purr. Although she was picked up outside, she would also suit a quiet indoor home.
Errol - Stocky male tabby, approximately eight years old. Likes to run and jump and is full of mischief, will sit on your lap, sleep on your bed, help you eat your dinner and do any number of cat things. He has lost his tail to an inch stump but he doesn't care and won't tell us where it went. He is what the vet calls "high maintenance" as he was picked up with such a severe flea allergy (scabs all over his body) that he will need careful monitoring all the time to ensure he never gets into such a state again. Only rich people need apply for this very special Boy About Town!
I had a knock at the door at 11 pm one night, my neighbour three doors up has had a large ginger cat in her place all afternoon and it was now under her cooker, could I help?
I said "there is a large ginger cat that wanders around but I have been unable to get him" so I went in with my basket. There he was, in a small dark space under the cooker. I tried to encourage him out - but no luck. As he seemed quite friendly I decided on trying to pull him out. I got him by the scruff and got his head and one arm out, then his other arm and then I turned him sideways and put in one last effort to pull out this very large ginger cat and put him firmly in the basket, only to then find out - he was mine!
Having, for sixteen years, had two beloved elderly cats who died within months of each other, I approached a re-homing group after a six-month mourning period, hoping to adopt a new feline. In its wisdom, the group informed me that flat-dwellers could not take on one of their cats unless their home came with a balcony (a feature which I myself would think the animal might fall off as it sprang around!). However, AA&A subsequently informed me that they could give me a lovely, youngish male tabby, age uncertain. The only problem was that he was afflicted with F.I.V. (the feline version of H.I.V., not transferable to humans). A flat would be ideal for an animal who should be kept from contact with other cats.
A kindly vet who was looking after this pussy, invited me to his surgery to view the animal. On our first meeting this gorgeous little creature started immediately to weave around me affectionately, and I quickly fell in love with him and took him home. He had been discovered - abandoned, hungry and terrified - off the street. His rescuers, appropriately enough, named him after that magnanimous animal lover, Hugh Lofting, author of Dr Doolittle. Despite his loving nature, I found that Lofting tended to be frightened of hands, or a quickly-raised foot, and I assume that he had been mistreated in his past. But he loved a kiss on the head or the cheek, and would both squeal and purr with delight if I ever placed my lips near him, and he would then offer me his cheek eagerly.
Within months he was following me everywhere and liked nothing better than to jump into my lap if I was sitting, or to crawl under the blankets with me while I lay in bed. He has given me much love and affection and, fortunately, has never yet shown any symptoms of illness in the 4 years he has been my companion. He does, however, need annual injections, generously subsidised by AA&A. He no longer cringes if I put out my hand to stroke him, and remains a fat, happy and healthy pussycat.
AA&A have several disabled animals on offer to suitable owners. Many of these have only three legs or one eye, due to past accidents, and I am certain that these special little "people" would flourish in homes where they would be spoilt and given extra love because of their disabilities. I know that Lofting continues to give me great joy.
"We're not fostering any more cats", my partner said, "you're not to be trusted - any excuse and we end up keeping them. Anyway, it's not fair to our existing brood" (which was true - there is nothing more annoying than the truth when it doesn't tie in with your heart's desire).
However, Sampson seemed bomb-proof. He was a very desirable (i.e. expensive) pedigree cat (of which we do not approve, but it wasn't his fault). He did have some behavioural problems, including inappropriate toileting, the old cat mainstay, but we were fairly confident that all he needed was a little TLC, some litter training reinforcement and patience and space to sort himself out.
Things went, almost, according to plan. The frequency with which he left "offerings" diminished and he settled down to be a slightly eccentric, but immensely loveable, cat. The faults his owners had complained of seemed endearing characteristics to us. He was a strange old creature but, when he fixed you, lovingly, with his huge eyes and quacked, seriously, and intensely, to express his appreciation, we could not see how anyone could fail to love him.
It got better: the breed society had found a home for him with a young family (slightly worrying since we suspected children had been his old bete noir) and a pair of young kittens (a little concerning since he didn't really appreciate the company of other cats) but the potential owners were caring and understanding. They knew he might have the odd "accident" and that he was a little unusual in his behaviour but they were happy to give it a go. I smiled triumphantly at my partner (in an "I told - you - so" kind of way) and retired to the bathroom to sob at the loss of Sammy.
All that remained was the final vet check, vaccinations and a totally unnecessary, but precautionary, test for FIV and FELV. The vet who rang me was kindness itself. "I am so sorry but he has tested positive for FIV" and, suddenly, Sammy's new life disappeared.
I suddenly realised that I knew nothing about one of the commonest viruses to affect cats and set about trying to remedy the situation. I knew of wonderful fosterers who had taken on FIV cats and loving homes who had gladly taken them in. I spoke to vets who were sensible and reassuring and, finally, I was glad that Sammy had been given to us.
As someone who habitually crosses bridges before they are even in sight, I have learned to take each day at a time. I have promised Sammy that he will not be hauled to the vet at every sniffle or runny-tummy, and he appreciates that, spending his days sunning quietly on his bench, or in his own patch of "mind-your-own-business". I take comfort from the experiences of our fosterers and owners, who have found living with an FIV cat a positive and rewarding experience and I am grateful for the two years we have had so far and for the years that I hope we have in the future.
Sammy is just grateful that he has come home, and every time I look into his beautiful, loving, face or return home to find him chasing down the hall to greet me, I know that it will always have been worth it for these special times.
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus is spread by infected cats to other cats through their saliva, mainly by biting, possibly by mutual grooming and, theoretically at least, by sharing food bowls. There is no risk to human beings or to other species of animal.
Since the commonest method of infection is by biting it is more prevalent in the unneutered cat population, where aggression levels are higher and territorial behaviour and allied fighting is more likely.
Although the general level of infection in the cat population at large is considered to be fairly high, and a non-aggressive, neutered infected cat is probably a very low risk, it would be the usual precaution to home cats with FIV in indoor homes, or homes with restricted outdoor access, where there are no other, non-infected cats.
Just as human HIV does not necessarily develop into full blown AIDS, or can take some years to do so, FIV infected cats may not develop AIDS for years, or even at all, living their lives symptom-free.
Illnesses caused by cat AIDS develop as a result of the cat's immune system becoming compromised, leading to a low resistance to other infections. Treatments are available and have varying degrees of success, depending on the nature of the illness. Prior to any illness developing, we continue to vaccinate for flu, enteritis and leukaemia and take advice from the vets treating the cats subsequently.
We almost always have FIV cats awaiting loving homes. Many are just run-of-the-mill, affectionate but unlucky cats who deserve a break. Can you help? If you think your life would be improved by sharing it with one of these special cats, but you are worried about being able to afford any eventual vets bills, please call - we might be able to meet you half way!
This quarter's guest writer is Carolina James, director of "Bright Eyes", reminding us of:
International Rabbit Day ® 2003
"From hutch bunny to house bunny"
Hop to it! 27 September is International Rabbit Day®, the most important day in the bunny calendar! This year the theme is "From hutch bunny to house bunny" and we'll be giving advice on everything you need to know about rabbits, from diet to toys, litter-training, outdoor safety and introducing bunnies. "Many people do not realise that rabbits make wonderful indoor pets" says Carolina James, Director of Bright Eyes. "They can be litter-trained just like cats and like nothing better than to sit with you on the sofa to watch TV!" Any rabbit can become a house rabbit and those over a year old are less destructive and easier to train, especially if they're neutered. Whether your bunnies live indoors or out, there are lots of fun ways in which you can celebrate International Rabbit Day® - for an Events Guide and a Rabbit Care pack please send an SAE to Bright Eyes, PO Box 414, 405 King's Road, London SW10 0BB or call 020 8888 0001.
As part of International Rabbit Day® 2003 we are also running the Carrot Top AwardsTM to find the world's top bunnies. To enter your rabbit please send his photo and reasons why he deserves an award to the above address enclosing an SAE if you would like your photos returned. The winners will receive the fabulous Carrot Top AwardTM and a parcel of Bunny Buys goodies. There are also consolation prizes for runners-up and a children's category so get your kids involved as well. The closing date is 15 October 2003.
Why indoor rabbits?
Rabbits make excellent house pets: they are intelligent, friendly, clean and quieter than dogs and cats. Traditionally kept in the garden, more and more bunnies are coming in from the cold and living indoors with their human family. "Rabbits of any age will adapt quickly and easily to being house rabbits" says Carolina James, Director of Bright Eyes. If you have a garden or balcony, they can exercise outside in the daytime with supervision, and enjoy the best of both worlds. Keeping your rabbits indoors is not just better for them, it's better for you!
Better for bunny
- Indoor rabbits are sheltered from predators and weather extremes.
- They get more exercise than garden rabbits, who usually live in just a small hutch and run.
- They are considered family pets as opposed to children's pets.
- All family members become involved in their care, which teaches children responsibility.
- Indoor bunnies spend more time with their caregivers and become tamer and more affectionate.
- They are less likely to be lonely and neglected, which is the fate of most outdoor rabbits.
- They enjoy the same status as other household pets and receive better veterinary care - in contrast many outdoor bunnies die of untreated illnesses.
- They live longer: the life expectancy of outdoor rabbits is about a year, of house rabbits 7-10 years.
Better for you
- Bunnies sleep at night and most of the day and are active first thing in the morning and in the evenings, which makes them ideal pets for working people. If you are at home during the day, they are wonderful company and like nothing better than to sit under your chair or next to you to be petted.
- It's easier to provide for your rabbits' social and physical needs (feeding, cleaning, grooming, company, exercise) indoors than in the cold and rain.
- You are more likely to get to know your rabbits and bond with them if they live with you. People who keep their rabbits outside often don't realise how affectionate and entertaining they are and miss out on the best part of having a pet.
If you are considering bringing your rabbits indoors, even if it's just some of the time, all you need to know is in our free Bunny Basics guide. For a copy please send an SAE to Bright Eyes at the address above. To adopt a rescued rabbit anywhere in the UK call the Bunny Hopline on 020 8888 0001
Yes, it's true, AA&A are offering a bottle of (good) champagne, completely free to one of our members or friends.
Of course, there is a catch in that you must first be successful in winning our "Design a New Logo" Competition.
Our existing logo has stood us in good stead for many years, but does not reproduce easily and is not particularly computer friendly.
Our new logo should be simple, contemporary, eye-catching, and may have a touch of humour. It will be used on all our stationery and leaflets and needs to be easily "blown-up" in case we can ever afford to include it on our shop frontages!
The closing date for entries is 31 December 2003 by post to 16 Ingham Road NW6 1DE. Please include your name, address and telephone number with your entry. Judging will take place in January and we hope to unveil our new logo at next year's AGM.
September 14th
Gillespie Park Festival
Gillespie Park N5
From 11.00 am
September 27th
Jumble Sale
Leeson Hall, Furlong Road, N7
3 pm
November 22nd
Chelsea Animals' Fair
Chelsea Town Hall, SW3
From 10.30 am
December 13th
National Cat Show, Olympia
From 10.30 am
The only blot on the horizon at the East Finchley shop is the need to turn away perfectly good donations when the rear of the shop is full. For health and safety reasons we can not allow the backlog to get too great but it is a huge pity that we must refuse perfectly good and saleable items because we have nowhere to put them. It is also sad that donors may not return next time, since they think we do not want their goods.
If you have any storage space to spare, within reach of the shop, or in the Islington area, or know anyone who might be able to help, please let us know. The shops are our lifeblood and enable us to continue our work - the effort expended by our many volunteers is considerable and it is distressing to all of them that we cannot always maximise our revenue.
This is an urgent appeal to all members and friends who have completed a Gift Aid declaration or made a donation to AA&A under Gift Aid.
Our retiring treasurer was burgled earlier this year and one of the items stolen was a suitcase containing all the signed Gift Aid forms and details of all Gift Aid donations.
If you have made a donation under Gift Aid please could you let us know the date(s) and amount(s) so that we can ensure we reclaim any tax due.
Making donations under Gift Aid is easy and, once you have completed the declaration, the government will give us 28p for every £1 you donate. If you are a higher rate taxpayer, you can also claim higher rate tax relief through your income tax return. If you have not previously made a Gift Aid declaration, please do consider it now.
Please note that membership runs from 1st September to 31st August. If you haven't already renewed your membership now is the time to do so. A renewal form is available online. You can pay by cheque, cash, standing order or direct debit. The current cost of membership is detailed below.
Please rejoin and help AA&A carry on the good work.
Members are the lifeblood of an organisation; more of us will help to spread the workload. All members have a role to play here; an easy way to help is to recruit a friend. If you know of somebody who is interested in joining, please let me know and I will send him or her information. There are no prizes for doing this, just the satisfaction of knowing that you're helping to keep animals off the streets.
We were very sad to learn that Rose Marshall, our first official cat fosterer, had died following major surgery. Well into her eighties, Rose had always been a very active, sprightly person, philosophical about life. Whatever the problem, she just got on with things.
Rose's first foster cat was a hoity-toity, long-haired, black and white madam, who came with the name of "Pudding", soon to be re-christened "Princess" as more in keeping with her demeanour. Memorable names and characters featured among Rose's cats. There was "Smarty pants" and "Emma", the three-legged stray who had her litter of kittens under a portaloo at Arsenal Stadium. Emma proved to be a tyrant among Rose's other cats.
Rose was also a dog-person. When her old poodle "Pepe" died, she said "no more dogs". She went to our vet's one day for supplies and the vet "saw Rose coming". Here Rose, he said, "take home and see what you can do with this". "This" was a dilapidated old stray Rough Collie, hardly able to stand and that was the beginning of a relationship between Rose and "Bess" that lasted several years.
It was a privilege to know Rose - how we wish there were more like her.
We send our condolences to her daughter Jean and her family.
If you have any comments, opinions or articles that you would like to have included in future newsletters, or if you want to publicise your own charitable event, please write to 16 Ingram Road, London NW6 1DE or email to AAandA@ic24.net
If you would like to volunteer, for fundraising, fieldwork or fostering, or would like to offer a home to a cat or kitten, please telephone 020 7607 1723
If you would like to become a member and receive our quarterly newsletter, please see the Membership page.
