Dear Friend of Tux,

It’s exceptionally hot and humid in Ringoes, NJ.

Tux doesn’t seem to mind the heat, and he’s been in pretty good spirits much of this month. Aside from a few days with some upset stomach issues, Tux has enjoyed good health and plenty of cat naps.

Tux and I shared several pleasant visits during the last few weeks. My own spirits always soar when I enter the Community Room and Tux greets me with a welcoming purr. On one particular afternoon, he couldn’t get enough pets. He even posed for the camera, which he rarely does for me.

Once each month, all the feline residents of Tabby’s Place have a personal care and grooming session with two of the staff. This is a time when we trim claws, check and clean ears, groom any areas of need, get a weight reading, and check each kitty for anything out of the ordinary. As you might guess, this is NOT a favorite day for most of our felines. When the staff enters with a bin, carrier, scale, and towels, the cats scatter.

This month, I was assigned to work in the Community Room for “weights and nails.” Tux is consistently the most cooperative of felines for these sessions. July was no exception. Tux put up with the entire process but voiced a squawk of distaste while having his claws trimmed. My partner and I stopped, I readjusted his position (in case he was uncomfortable), and he gave me a pointed look that spoke volumes. I couldn’t help but chuckle while feeling simultaneously guilty for whatever I had done to bring on such an intense glare.

I apologized, and all was forgiven. Tux is grateful that your love and support provide everything he needs to remain healthy and happy. I promise not to tell him that nail trims are part of the formula, but I do wish I could have captured his expression to share with you. Words do not do it justice.

Your Correspondent,

Lisa