New Page 1

Logan, a handsome German Shepherd Dog, was adopted in 2004 and "he's still doing great at 5-1/2 now and has had a new little yellow lab sister - Sophie - for nearly two years. We adopted her from a shelter in Louisiana - she was on death's door and needed someone to give her a chance (sound familiar?)....needless to say our house is just full of fun and always lively with these two!! - Jeanne, Ed, Danielle, Andre, Logan and Sophie!

I hope this message finds you all well. I have something I wanted to share with you. I recently had been sick with pneumonia and had to sleep with oxygen and a bi pap machine at night. It was about 3:30 in the morning when Daisy my little 5 pound Pomeranian (adopted March, 2006 with her sister, Daffodil) started barking and scratching at the side of the bed to wake me up. I sat up, removed my oxygen and just started bleeding profusely. I dialed 911 and was rushed to the emergency room where I spent the next three and half hours trying to stop a bloody nose. It was caused from the dryness of the oxygen that I had been sleeping with over time. I was told by the paramedics and the emergency room doctor that if my dog didn't wake me up that I could have choked to death on my own blood in my sleep. Daisy saved my life and I may not be here today if it wasn't for my little hero. I had to tell you the brave and wonderful thing my! Daisy did for me because if it wasn't for you I wouldn't have her in my life! Daffodil her sister is doing wonderful as well as Peppy, they are my other little blessings. I am thankful everyday for them. Best wishes to you and all the animals over at the project.

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

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

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

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.

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

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!

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!

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!!!!

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.

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!!!

			We've added a Facebook page to make it easier for our adopters and other friends to share news, comments and photos. Please scroll down for other photos and news. Looking forward to hearing from you! ~ Flora http://www.facebook.com/#/pages/Floras-Pet-Project/96752668357
			Fun Photos and Alumni News
			Our Beloved Mascot, Chance, dressed for Halloween as a dragon (2007), an elephant (2004) and a dapper devil (2009).

			The Party Scene Every year we celebrate the day we unchained our darling Chance from a backyard where we found him dangerously underweight, dehydrated, injured and afraid. We knew we had a friend for life when Chance used what little strength he had to wag his tail and give a kiss as we put a leash on him and led him to safety. 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. Below are some photos from his 10th birthday bash.
			Anticipation of cake The cake!

			Trio's Triumph! From Trio's Mom: I adopted "Vickie," a 3-legged Schnauzer (renamed "Trio") from you on Valentine's Day 2006 as a gift to my Sheltie, Emma. We both fell in love with her! This is a photo of us from this weekend during the snowstorm. The girls love the woodstove! They love each other even more! Trio has added so much love to our lives! From Flora: The orthopedic specialist who treated Vickie after she was hit by a car was able to plate her broken pelvis and get her back on her feet, but months of physical therapy failed to restore the use of the nerve-damaged leg, and we ended up having to amputate. Vickie would be the first to say that trading a leg she didn't really need for a family she adores was the best deal she'll ever make.


			Bozley's Big Break
			Bozley is seen below with his beaming mom and new big brother, just as he was about to leave for a new life and true love. Bozley's story was among our most dramatic ever--hit by a car late at night and left for dead with multiple fractures; rescued by a kind stranger; cared for by an obliging, talented emergency vet hospital staff, and then put back together again by our brilliant Dr. Eric Galster. Bozley lost an eye in the process, but he'd be the first to say it was a small price to pay for the love and happiness he knows in his new home.


			Logan's News
			Logan, a handsome German Shepherd Dog, was adopted in 2004 and "he's still doing great at 5-1/2 now and has had a new little yellow lab sister - Sophie - for nearly two years. We adopted her from a shelter in Louisiana - she was on death's door and needed someone to give her a chance (sound familiar?)....needless to say our house is just full of fun and always lively with these two!! - Jeanne, Ed, Danielle, Andre, Logan and Sophie!


			Wallace Day 2009 From Wallace's parents: Wallace is 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! It doesn’t seem possible that he found us 7 years ago! As always, thanks for looking out for him until he could find us.

			In loving memory of Cody
			We are deeply saddened by the loss of our alumna Cody, who passed away suddenly after 7 1/2 years as a beloved member of the Brennan family. Cody was adopted in September 2001, having come to us as a young puppy with her mom, Ivy (photo below), and several littermates. Over the years since Cody's adoption we have been thrilled to receive regular reports of her blissfully-happy life, including the welcoming of human sisters Kyra and Erin. Cody was a gentle, loving soul and we are so grateful to her family for all of the love and comfort that she enjoyed in their care. We join them in celebrating her too-short life, and in mourning her very sad loss.
			Cody at about 1 year Cody watches over sister Erin Cody in 2008 Cody's mom, Ivy, in adventure mode

			A New Katie 'Do
			Hi Flora, thought we'd send in a recent picture of Katie. We've had her for almost 3 1/2 years now and she still demands much fuss and attention. She truly rules the house. Here she is after a recent "day of beauty" :)

			Sweet Charity! Adopted April, 2002 Charity's parents wrote: "Hi Flora, as I promised, here are some recent photos of our little baby, Charity. Again, she is the best thing that could have ever happened to us, she truly is a blessing." Amen!
			Charity and friends, relaxing

			5-lb. Daisy Saves Mom's Life!
			Hi Flora! I hope this message finds you all well. I have something I wanted to share with you. I recently had been sick with pneumonia and had to sleep with oxygen and a bi pap machine at night. It was about 3:30 in the morning when Daisy my little 5 pound Pomeranian (adopted March, 2006 with her sister, Daffodil) started barking and scratching at the side of the bed to wake me up. I sat up, removed my oxygen and just started bleeding profusely. I dialed 911 and was rushed to the emergency room where I spent the next three and half hours trying to stop a bloody nose. It was caused from the dryness of the oxygen that I had been sleeping with over time. I was told by the paramedics and the emergency room doctor that if my dog didn't wake me up that I could have choked to death on my own blood in my sleep. Daisy saved my life and I may not be here today if it wasn't for my little hero. I had to tell you the brave and wonderful thing my! Daisy did for me because if it wasn't for you I wouldn't have her in my life! Daffodil her sister is doing wonderful as well as Peppy, they are my other little blessings. I am thankful everyday for them. Best wishes to you and all the animals over at the project. Love Kristina

			Boston's new home Darling Boston was a member of our foster family for 18 months before finding his forever family. Boston is seen below 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.




			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!



			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 beloved Dixie, whose eyes were removed in January 2006. Dixie was our Official Greeter and Goodwill Ambassador until her adoption, by dear friends, in the spring of 2009. Dixie is blissfully happy in her new home, and keeps in touch through her Facebook page, where her nom de plume is Dixie Doodle. 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



			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





			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



			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

			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.

			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.





			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