Hello to Fans of Shifty!
On the day of my most recent visit to Tabby’s Place, the weather outside was overcast; the clouds looked as if it might rain at any minute. Inside, the cats were in siesta mode. Routines went on as usual. It was getting close to “feed time,” and preparations were in the works to get all of the cats fed.
It is the time of day to which Shifty looks forward most.
The cats begin to rouse, sensitive to the increase in activity around them. Each time the door to his suite opened, Shifty thought his dinner had arrived. Since his home suite is the Employee/Volunteer Lounge, that door opens a lot.
Imagine his disappointment, waiting for that checkerboard bowl to appear in the hands of someone, anyone! He waits with the impatience of a child waiting for a treat.
Wait! Here comes someone now!
In walks his Correspondent Kim.
She is NOT carrying his dinner bowl.
She IS carrying a cell phone with which to take his photos for his update.
The volunteers with me that day told me that I just HAD to make sure I included the photo of Shifty’s reaction to the “no dinner yet but some nice pictures, please” expectation. We all shared a chuckle on that dreary day, which DID get better for Shifty a few moments later when his dinner WAS served!
Part of Shifty’s enthusiasm for dinner is that he has been removed from the “lunch list.” He was starting to gain weight, and our veterinary team felt it best for his overall health that he not get too rotund. However, he does continue to anticipate lunch. Volunteers asked if he could have treats at lunchtime, but were advised that our Shifty is just as happy to receive their undivided attention via petting instead.
I am happy to share with you that Shifty remains in good health. His coat is fluffy and soft to the touch. His eyes shine and sparkle. He remains on pretty good terms with most of his suitemates. Sometimes more outgoing than other times, Shifty is a fellow that likes his nap times alone, still preferring the big box under the couch in his suite. We keep it filled with soft blankets for him.
When he rests his handsome head there at night, he knows he is loved and adored.
Thank you, dear sponsors, for your most gracious gifts that provide for his sense of security and well-being. We appreciate your love and support. I know Shifty does, too!
Your Correspondent,
Kim
Postscript: In light of the arrival of COVID-19 in New Jersey, Tabby’s Place is currently closed to the public except by appointment. Please click here for our official COVID-19 response.