Dear Bacon Supporter,

I hope your February is humming along just the way you’d like it!

When I go to visit Bacon, I never know what to expect. Usually, he’s sleepy-eyed or dozing on his big bed. Sometimes he’s still in his house in dreamland. But not this time. I arrive early for my volunteer shift, peek into the Medical Office where Bacon lives, and discover quite to my surprise that he is already up and ready for action. He strolls through the room, sniffs the floor, and takes little sips of water from his bowl.

So, this is a big opportunity. Finally. To interact with him.

“Hey, Buddy.” I sit on the edge of his big comfy, cozy bed near the wall. Immediately he saunters over and sniffs.

“You remember me?”

He doesn’t say anything; instead, he takes the side of his neck and presses it against the back of my hand.

“Move slowly,” I tell myself. I see this for what it is—a unique opportunity to pet him. But I have to do it very slowly. I know Bacon all too well. One false move, and he’ll retreat to the other side of the room.

Softly and gently, I use the back of my hand to pet him as he rotates his head around. His eyes are closed. Very slowly and carefully I turn my hand around and begin to caress under his chin. And he likes it. Bingo! This goes on for a few minutes.

Then he saunters back across the room for a drink. He comes back and goes completely around me. Then he returns to his original position. For more pets!

It takes an incredibly long time to win the trust of some cats. But when it happens, it is magical. And not that this is always the scenario with Bacon, but now, more often than not, I have a shot.

And medically speaking, Bacon is doing well.  There’s nothing new to report except that Bacon, quite unexpectedly decided to pursue his love of singing. Need proof? Check out this lovely posting that lets us in on his little secret:  Bacon Sings Elvis Presley. This is going to be a good year!

Thanks, as always, for your continued and generous support of Tabby’s Place. Bacon is living the best life that he can and that is due in large part to you!

If you can find a way to join us at Tabby’s Place today, we’re hosting Your Feline Valentine, an open house that’s all about our sponsored cats. The first hour, 12-1 pm, is exclusively for sponsors like you. In the case of Bacon, you know his special condition and the risks of too much stimulation won’t permit visits, unfortunately. But, we would love to have you with us (and we have no shortage of cats who would be thrilled to snuggle with you). We’ll open it the event to the public (and hopefully recruit many new sponsors) from 1-4 pm.  You are, of course, welcome at any time.

Thank you for your devotion to this precious boy and all our cats. Bacon and I wish you a lovely February and hope you had a great Valentine’s Day!

Your correspondent,
Kate