March greetings to you, and to all Stafford’s friends!

This long-haired senior cat shares the office with the Executive Director of Tabby’s Place. Now, there’s a contrast. The Executive Director is responsible for everything. Stafford has no responsibilities whatsoever.

It’s been quite a change for him. One day he was homeless and struggling to survive, and the next thing he knew, he was indoors, safe, warm, being loved and cared for. Is it any wonder that in some photos he looks a bit quizzical as if he’s astonished to be where he is?

Thanks to your generous support, all his daily needs are met. As always, his health is closely watched. In the past month, there were some reports of congestion and sneezing, but the medical team gave him a checkup, and nothing seemed out of the ordinary. His diabetes is also under control because his blood glucose levels were checked and no one saw a need to increase his insulin.

So the solitary struggle for survival is over. With no need to search for a safe place to sleep, Stafford lives his best life every day. He doesn’t call attention to himself but accepts affection with deep purrs, and the occasional sniffle of lingering congestion. With his easy-going personality, he’s one of the certified therapy animals that Tabby’s Place has in its Aged to Purrfection program. Numerous assisted living centers in the area have played host to him and other therapy cats, with evident good effects.

During a recent visit, I sat on one chair and petted Stafford on the adjacent one to my left. Before long, his roommate Shiny strolled over and hopped into my lap. You too, pretty lady cat? Well, that’s why we have two hands, isn’t it?

After a few minutes of right-handed petting from me, Shiny curled up in a ball and relaxed. Stafford eased down from his chair and crossed the room to the cat fountain for a few sips of water. Refreshed, he then walked to the door of the office and looked out at the passing scene. He peered through the gate and observed volunteers and visitors. At one point, a woman coaxed Rascal to play with a toy mouse, which he did.

Satisfied with his survey of his territory, Stafford returned to the same chair, lay down, and closed his eyes. Cats can move quickly when they need to, but slow living is what he wants now. And if you come to visit him at Tabby’s Place, he’ll always be glad to see you.

Your correspondent,
John

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.