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Fun Photos

Fun Photos and Alumni News

Our Beloved Mascot, Chance, dressed for Halloween as a dragon (2007) and an elephant (2004),

and celebrating the 7th anniversary of his rescue (March 2007).

We invite you to spend a few moments sharing our page of alumni photos and stories, which we think will make you smile, maybe even laugh out loud, and sometimes shed a happy tear.

The Party Scene

Every March we celebrate the day our darling Chance was liberated from the backyard where we found him, skeletal, dehydrated, bleeding, fearful and chained to a doghouse. Chance gained more than 25 lbs. in just a few weeks, his injuries healed completely, and he has never looked back to those sad days.

The cake. The guests! Yum!

From Partygoer to Pampered Pooch

Darling Boston was a member of our foster family for 18 months before finding his family in January 2008. Boston is seen above as a guest at Chance's 7th anniversary party last year, and below he's seen covered with just a few of the toys he calls his own at his new home. Boston's new family dotes on him, and we couldn't be happier.

Bonnie's New Look

Bonnie, an apricot standard poodle, was rescued from a backyard breeder who kept her in a cold, dirty, outdoor pen, where she was ungroomed and unappreciated for nearly two years. Bonnie was a mess when we got her and had to be shaved to the skin, but now that she's being loved and pampered in her wonderful new home, she feels like a million bucks, and looks like a movie star. Yay, Bonnie!!

Wallace: Diplomat and Bon Vivant

From Wallace's Dad: While he isn’t blogging all that much lately, I wanted you to see a few pictures of how well Wallace is doing. He’s the picture of a breed ambassador for pits everywhere he goes, and truly our best friend. We celebrate “Wallace Day” every year on the anniversary of his adoption, but he does pretty well the rest of the year, too. Check out http://www.dogster.com/dogs/165453 for some pics and commentary from the coolest dog-blogger around! He threw a great party for new years eve called Wallace’s Pajama Party, and was stylin’ in his flannels … J

Nellie's Lovely Life

Nellie (formerly Penelope), a black standard poodle, was overweight and suffering from infected cysts when we got her. She slimmed down and her skin healed, but just when she was healthy enough to leave for a new home, she almost died from bloat (stomach twisting)--but her life was saved by our poodle partner's savvy, a Saturday night race to the emergency room and our ability to pay for expensive emergency surgery, thanks to our wonderful supporters. And what a life it is now...

Nellie in the hospital Nellie in nirvana

Rufus the Ring Bearer

Dear Flora:

A year ago, I contacted you to inquire about a little puppy Jack Russell named Rufus. Our beloved Jack Russell, Better, had just died of lymphoma and we were bereft.

Last October, we came to CT to get Rufus, and he has been the delight of our lives for the past year. This past May, Gary and I eloped, and we set our celebration for family and friends for Oct 14, 2007- not even realizing until a few days ago that was a year to the day that Rufus entered our lives.

He is a bright, goofy, happy boy and he goes everywhere with us. We love him so.

I wanted to thank you again for making this possible for us. Attached is a photo of us on our Wedding Day in May with Rufus in the middle.

Thanks from all of us,

Liz, Gary and Rufus

We're so proud of Maizie!!!!

From Maizie's mom:

Maizie got her C-ATCH Title this past weekend. (CPE – Agility Trial Champion Title). We had to complete 88 qualifying runs to achieve this title. Whoo- Hoo!

Now on to the Nationals…….

We'll all be cheering for Maizie and her wonderful mom, Kathy!

Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Flower's new roots

Flower, who is now called Laney, is seen below with her wonderful new brothers Collin and Evan (Collin is holding Laney, Evan is leaning in for the hug), who make her feel safe and very, very happy in her loving new home. Flower/Laney was such a shy little girl that it took her quite awhile to find the perfect family, but she would be the first to tell you that the wait was worth every minute--she LOVES her boys, her mom and her dad, and they love her.

Hooray for Hero!!

Hero, the puppy formerly known as Dizzy, is seen below with his mom Kathy, dad Darrell and sister Konnie on a post-adoption visit. Regular visitors to our website will remember Hero as the puppy who suffered a traumatic brain injury and had a very, very bleak prognosis. Against all odds, and thanks to his parents' love, patience and truly inspiring dedication, Hero is doing BRILLIANTLY. Still just a tiny bit clumsy, Hero runs, plays, chases Konnie, goes up and down stairs, misbehaves, behaves, and enjoys life to the fullest. Hero is one lucky little puppy, and he has one very special family.

Am I dreaming?

Lacey, a lovely and very sweet Italian greyhound (bottom left, below), was adopted by Raffi (upper right, below) and his parents, and instantly settled into a busy schedule of playing, napping and cuddling. Her new mom's only complaint is that Lacey is so delightful to cuddle that it's hard to get things done when she's around. We're thrilled.

One of our adopters, Mr. Walt Zientek, is an award-winning author and poet, and favored us with a composition in honor of our dear Dixie, whose eyes were removed in January 2006. Dixie started out as a foster, and is now a permanent resident and our Official Greeter and Goodwill Ambassador.

Dixie's Dance

Dixie's dance is a careful one, timed by the rhythms of the world. The music of life worth living. The tempo of a gentle summer's day.

Dixie's world is a bright one, through the darkness. The love of a kind word and a gentler touch. The reflections on an invisible pond.

Dixie's sight is a true one, measured by the instincts of her heart. Seeing the world for what it really is. Watching the kindness in your soul.

Walt Zientek, for Dixie (and Flora) 4/29/06

Leona Speaks:

I am so happy in my new home with Mommy Cheryl and Daddy Jim. I have learned all kinds of new things, like how to sit when getting a treat and when Mommy needs to put my leash on. I am having fun chasing the cats and they are getting used to me being a nut. I have a new bed and a big crate that I only have to be in during work time for Mom. I also have many new toys that I have already destroyed. Mommy says that Santa will bring more. I have very few accidents in the house because I have figured out mommie's schedule already. Mommy says I’m pretty smart for a Cocker Spaniel. (that’s a novelty in her book). My friend Fiver, the white cat, likes to get inside my crate, because it used to be his and he wants it back. My parents love me soooooo very much!! I am very happy!!!! Ruff!!

Love,

Leona (aka: Stella Bella Flora Dora, Wiget, Devil Dog, Fleeona and Badness)

Lovely Leona

As good as it gets

Klaus was adopted in November, 2005 and is celebrating a year of health, happiness, love and security with his mom, Amy. Klaus came to us with a serious leg injury which required amputation, but having only three legs hasn't held him back one bit. His sunny personality keep him purring throughout his painful recovery and rehabilitation and made him irresistible to his mom, who assures us that he charms everyone he meets. As you can see, life for Klaus is as good as it gets.

Wally and Eddie having funfunfun

Hi Flora – hope all is well with you and your critters. Wally and Eddie have grown a lot. I can’t seem to keep them out of the sinks and tub – they are water rats. Actually, I can’t seem to keep them out of anywhere – they are still nosy large kittens. Their antics keep us entertained all day long.

Romping in their personal playhouse Relaxing in front of the t.v.

What's black and white and happy all over? Abby!

Abby has been with us for nineteen months. She is so well mannered and has become very talkative!!. We have fallen in love with her and I think she has also fallen in love with us!!! We look at her and we can't help but say how happy she is and how happy that has made us. She has found a place in our home and in our hearts.

Love Laurie, Chris and Abby

Glamour Pusses

The Flame Point Boys were lucky enough to be adopted together, and they are living large in their new home, surrounded by lots of love, comfy places to sleep, fun places to play hide and seek, and toys galore. These boys would be the first to tell you, though, that the best toy of all for a kitten is...another kitten! Their mom writes:

Hi Flora! The kittens are growing like weeds!! They are are 5pounds, and six pounds. As you can tell from the photos, they are seldom far from one another! They are a lot of fun and love!! I still can't believe my luck in finding these boys!! They are beauties!

Rudy celebrates an anniversary

We pulled Rudy from a local dog pound as a frightened young puppy, and he never quite got over his sense that the world is a scary place. Luckily, Rudy found a wonderfully patient, loving and compassionate dad who boosts his confidence and keeps him safe.

It's hard to believe that Rudy and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary together on May 17th. He continues to thrive and to be a true joy to be with. His favorite activities include playing ball, tug of war, visits from his grandparents, cousins, and close friends; and, an occasional nap with "Dad". (By the way, he snores like a freight train.)

Rudy is still protective and anxious around people he does not know, so I remain extremely careful with him. But given his history and the bad start he got in life before you rescued him, a little extra patience, kindness and a lotta love is a very small price to pay to make our beautiful boy happy, healthy and safe.

Warmest regards! Jeff B.

Rudy relaxes in style

Abbie takes it ea-zzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Dear Flora... We have just come upon our 3 year anniversary of adopting Abbie (Formerly Stella).

Abbie sends her well wishes and this special note: As you can see, I am very happy and healthy!!! I miss you, but I have a great big back yard, AND MY OWN BED in the house! Daddy takes me for long walks and everyone plays with me all the time. Hope all is well in your neck of the woods! Love, Abbie and Family

"zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz"

And another bus stop boy parks it

Max, seen below helping the Easter Bunny and talking to his brother Sam, is enjoying life to the fullest. His loving parents write: "We are so glad to have him. Just see in the pictures how happy he is. Thanks again for a great pet."

"Let's do a yellow one next" Talking to brother Sam

The passing of a beloved brother

Hi, Flora, I just wanted you to know that we lost Amelia's big brother Jake on the morning of February 7, 2006. We were in the vet ER all night but they had to put him to sleep at 4:30 a.m. Monday, 2/7. My baby would have been 11 on March 2nd. Sadly, we have since also lost Jessie, our much-loved 14-year-old kitty. Amelia had not been without Jake since the very moment we picked her up at your shelter in CT until we took him to the hospital. Jake even accompanied her to her vet appointments so that she would not shake in the car. She is adjusting gradually but cried and looked for him everywhere when we took her out. She is a bit more scared than she was with him around but we are working through it. I am taking her to a dog gym for a "doggy play date" with a co-worker and 2 of her dogs, so I hope that will help Amelia to adjust. Thank you for the gift of Amelia in September of 2001.

Lovely Amelia Devoted, beloved, dearly-missed brother Jake

Rio and Zephyr share a home and a friendship

Hi Flora,

About 2 1/2 years ago, my family and I adopted a little dog named Clarabelle from you. She has since been renamed Rio. Rio started out as a very mischievous, bouncy little puppy, and has grown into a beautiful young dog, capable of putting a smile on your face no matter what kind of a mood you are in. About a year ago, we also adopted a little black kitten with green eyes, named Zephyr, who came to us as an extremely shy little cat, but has been continually gaining confidence as time goes by. She now walks around without trepidation and rules the house like a queen. Although she's now a full grown cat, she's still very much a playful kitten at heart. Her favorite toys are feathers tied to a string, and Rio's tail. Rio and Zephyr play together, though Zephyr will not admit it, and enjoy each other's company very much (another thing Zephyr refuses to admit). Rio and Zephyr are two of my best friends. Sincerely, Chelsea L.

P.S. Rio and Zephyr say hello!

Rio relaxing Zephyr playing

Sadey's good clean fun

Dear Flora,

I adopted Sadey from you in 2001 and I can't believe she is going to be 5 this May; she has been a blessing since I have had her. She has gone on long day trips with me, doggie day care and even spas, just a bit spoiled, but such a good girl. She actually has a strange habit that I thought I would share with you - she LOVES to take a bath. When she is nowhere to be found in the house, she is in the tub! She loves to take bubble baths and will wait till the water is in the tub and she'll jump right in and stay for as long as it takes to get her clean. I dry her with the towel and hair dryer and when she is done she has her own doggie glitter lotion so she'll smell pretty and sparkle. She is such a clown that when we are all done she jumps in and waits for more! Flora she is the best, thanks so much for bringing us together! Taryn

I'm waiting.... That feels SO good! Thanks, Mom!!!!

Cody welcomes her newest sister

Cody, who was an only child when adopted as a young puppy in September 2001, has since welcomed human sister Kyra, and now baby Erin. Cody is seen below cradling and watching over adorable Erin.

A New Chapter for Sammy

Sammy, a darling chihuahua mix puppy, was adopted recently by Mr. Walt Zientek, an award-winning author and poet, his wife Wendy and adult (nonresident, but frequently visiting) daughters Cory and Jamie. The Zientek family was formerly owned by a yellow lab named Caleb and a French Bulldog named Gibson, both of whom have passed on and are deeply missed. Caleb and Gibson inspired much of Mr. Zientek's writing on the subject of dogs, the proceeds of which are donated to animal rescue, and we hope that Sammy will be similarly a-muse-ing. You may learn more about Sammy's dad and his work at http://www.twodogpress.com/twodogpress/walt.html

To help us raise money for our pets, Mr. Zientek has very kindly donated to Flora's Pet Project several signed copies of his Book Heart Dog Diaries. To purchase your copy or for more details, please e-mail us at flora@floraspetproject.org

New Dad, New Bed Cuddles from Mom Napping with Friends

And now, dressed for an island getaway or a Jimmy Buffett concert...it's Surfer Sam!

Surfer Sam says: Don't forget the sunscreen!

...and now we can call him "Uncle Sam"

Sam would like to announce the birth of his niece, Julia Jeanette, on July 25th.

The Flame Point Kittens Blaze a New Trail

We were so pleased to send our flame point brothers to a new home together, and their new family has sent us a fabulous first report:

Hi Flora!! The kittens are FANTASTIC!! We are just in awe! They settled right in at the house. We have them in (human brother) Colin's room. They were checking things out, ate, went potty and were rubbing up against us in the first hour! It was amazing!!! We are just thrilled. They took two naps on my lap! I'm so happy!! I'm sending you the first of many pictures!! Give Dixie a hug for us!!

Daisy and Daffodil in Full Bloom

Daisy and Daffodil, 9-year-old sisters, needed a new home when their former family moved. To our great joy, the girls were adopted together by kind and loving parents Kristina and Peter, and big brother Peppy, also a pomeranian. Life has never been better!

The little ladies are doing GREAT!! They are so much fun and just the best company! They love playing and running around outside and sunbathing in the dining room in the morning. We have now begun to let them snuggle in bed with us at night...they stay with us until we fall asleep, then in the morning they are together on the couch snoozing--just like a couple of good mommies! It's so cute!! They each have a distinct little bark; Peppy has a really girlie bark and the girls have a deeper raspier bark, and they "shout" at each other when they are playing and wrestling. They are always so happy to see us and love to be held and they push each other out of the way to get to mommy or daddy first. The girls were just what we needed to complete our little furry family!

Beauty Queen Daisy Tiny Daffodil Handsome Peppy

Blue and Spike take a cat nap

Blue (at left) and Spike are seen below dreaming of the delicious treats that their mom bakes for the Dog E-Bag. Spike very graciously allowed Florapuppy Blue into his home in 2000 and has since made room for Marley, an FIV+ Florakitty who has his own room and Gabriel, a handsome buff and white kitty boy who was rescued from under a car at a gas station.

Greetings from Logan and memories of his dear sister Christie

Hi Flora, We hope this message finds you well. Our friend Logan is just over 2 years old now, fast approaching his 2nd "birthdayversary" (August 22nd) with us. As you'll see he's grown into a handsome guy with a charming, and often goofy personality to match. His favorite past time is playing fetch with the frisbee and he's gotten quite good at catching it in mid air. He's actually obsessed with it, but it's a great means of exercise. We had a bit of sad news back in February, in that we had to say goodbye to our dear girl Christie (a beautiful dalmatian who welcomed Logan into the family with open arms). Although she looked fantastic on the outside, her age caught up with her on the inside. Lucky for us Logan has a way of filling most of the void, maybe in time we'll consider another new friend. Jeanne, Ed, Danielle, Andre, and of course Logan

Handsome Logan Logan and his dear sister Christie Happy Adoption Day, 8/22/04

Edith Ann, Now and Then, and playing with Lily Tomlin

Edith Ann, Now Edith Ann, Then

Edith Ann with Lily Tomlin

Edith Ann, an adorable poodle mix who celebrated her second birthday in May, is seen above left as she looks today. At right is a photo of her the day she was dropped off with us--3 1/2 days old, weighing just five ounces, and motherless. Edith Ann shares a career in the theater with her mom, Reno, a brilliant comedian, and divides her time between Manhattan and Los Angeles. Below left, Edith Ann is seen romping with her mom's dearest friend, inspiration and Edith Ann's godmother, the incomparable Lily Tomlin.

Edith Ann's two brothers Winston and Benny (visible inside the crate) were adopted together and are living large with a wonderful, loving family and a big fenced yard.

Lily Surveys Her Domain

Hi, Flora!

Lily has grown into such a sweet, loving cat. She is the most outgoing of our cats, loving the attention of visitors. She has to be around one of us all the time. She comes into the bathroom when we take showers. She will lay in front of the tub and then joins us at the sink when we're brushing our teeth. She is way too funny! We recently remodeled our kitchen and Lily decided she needed to climb the ladder. Isn't she beautiful? She's Absolutely Gorgeous!!!!

xox

Lynn & Bill

From Flora: Lily was a day old and weighed just a few ounces when she was found under a bush, wet and cold, after her mom was killed by a car. She was the sole survivor of a litter of five, and things were touch-and-go for awhile, but she blossomed into a longhaired calico beauty and since January 04 has been living the life of love, companionship and comfort that we dream of for every kitty. She's a very, very lucky little girl.

Sharp-Dressed Men

Aladdin, above left, is seen with his new brother Ben as they prepare to hit the runway in the latest fashions. Until recently Aladdin lived with his mother, Jasmine, and two sisters Angel and Destiny, and now that he finally has left the nest, he's ready to make some fashion statements.

From Aladdin's new family: How can we thank you enough. He is such a love.

I think he was just the right fit for our family. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

From Flora: No, Thank YOU!!!

LeeLee and Mia, the cozy, contented kitties

LeeLee and Mia are sisters, born outdoors to a homeless kitty mom, but thanks to a concerned neighbor, mom and kittens made it to safety. Leelee and Mia were lucky enough to be adopted together by loving and kind human parents, and they have been showing their gratitude every day since with their funny, endearing ways.

Laverne and Shirley...doin' it their way!

Here are those two little angels I adopted from you...they've grown into little princesses. Shirley is very timid and Laverne is a ball of fire, and they are both extremely affectionate. They have all kinds of kitty toys, but would rather kiss and hug each other and peer out the windows, and climb everything. I'm glad they were adopted together, and the older cats enjoy them. The older female has taken the role as Shirley's mom, but cannot keep up with Laverne....Thanks Flore...Jennifer

Laverne Shirley

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