December 2023

Inside this issue:

• Reflecting on the Year:  A Message of Gratitude and Hope
• Katty's New Year's Resolutions 
• There's still time for your cat's name to appear in the credits of the new documentary by The Paw Project: "AMERICAN CATS:  THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE CUDDLY."  Donate and show your cat's support to end the cruel practice of declawing.
• Last chance to purchase our 2024 Calendar!

Reflecting on the Year: A Message of Gratitude and Hope

Dear Friends and Supporters,

As we approach the end of another year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey that we have had here at the Ladew Cat Sanctuary.  It has been a year filled with challenges, triumphs, and, most importantly, the unwavering love and dedication we have for our feline friends.  

First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of you who have stood by us throughout the year, supporting our mission to provide a safe haven for cats rescued from municipal shelters.  Your donations, time, and kind words have kept us going, even during the toughest times.  Without your support, we wouldn't be able to make a difference in the lives of these precious animals.  

Nearly 170 cats were rescued by us from municipal shelters this year, which is our highest intake recorded ever.  Each and every one of those cats were spayed and/or neutered, dewormed, microchipped, vaccinated, had any surgeries needed, including dental surgery, bloodwork and many medical conditions diagnosed and treated, including ongoing treatments.  

So far, 110 of those 170 have been adopted into loving homes, including nearly 50 cats that are currently in our extremely successful Seniors for Seniors program (where we cover the reasonable future medical care of a cat adopted by an approved senior citizen).  

The dedication of our staff and volunteers has been truly remarkable, and I am humbled by their tireless efforts.  I would also like to thank all of our veterinary partners who help us not only with our Seniors for Seniors program, but also with all of the emergencies and specialized surgeries that crop up from time to time.  

Our work is far from over.  As we enter a new year, we know that there are still countless cats out there in need of help.  We are determined to continue our efforts and expand our Seniors for Seniors program and continue spreading love in our senior community.  We hope to expand our clinic so that we can have a senior cat adoption room to make it easier for senior citizens to see cats that are available in the program. 

None of this would be possible without your invaluable support.  Whether it's through financial contributions, volunteering your time, or spreading the word about our cause, your generosity has helped us cover the costs of veterinary care, food, shelter and everything else that goes into caring for cats on a daily basis.

From all of us here at the Ladew Cat Sanctuary, we hope you have a healthy and prosperous 2024 and that you have a house filled with the pitter-patter of feline furry feet for many years to come.

-- Susan Whittred, DVM/Executive Director

Goals for a Purrfect New Year:  Resolutions -- By Katty

•  Embrace my inner hunter:  Cats are natural born hunters, so this year, I resolve to perfect my hunting skills.  Whether it's having toys or pouncing on imaginary prey, I'll dedicate myself to honing my instincts.
• Keep a tidy litter box:  I resolve to maintain a clean and odor-free litter box, ensuring a pleasant experience for both myself and, if I get adopted, my humans.  
• Explore new territories:  this year I hope to venture beyond my usual stomping grounds explore a brand new forever home.  
• Bond with a new family:  While cats are known for their independent nature, I resolve to spend more quality time with my humans (after I'm adopted).

• Stay fit and healthy:  I promise to stay active and maintain a healthy weight.  I won't give anyone a hard time about my hypoallergenic diet and will try not to beg for Churu more than five times a day.

• Master the art of relaxation:  Cats are experts at finding the coziest spots and embracing relaxation.  This year, I'll perfect the art of napping in the sun, cuddling up in warm blankets and finding the comfiest spots in the house to unwind.

• Improve my grooming skills: I resolve to become a grooming guru.  From meticulously cleaning my fur to perfecting my bathing techniques, I'll ensure I always look and feel my best.  

• Make new furry friends:  Cats are social creatures too!  This year, I'll strive to make new friends, whether they're fellow cats, dogs or even other animals.  I'll show them that cats can be friendly and build lasting relationships.
• Learn new tricks:  Who says cats can't learn new tricks?  This year, I'll challenge that notion and learn new tricks that will amaze and entertain my humans.  From high-fives to fetching toys, I'll show them just how clever I can be.
• Spread joy and love:  Lastly I resolve to be a source of joy and love in my (new) household.  Whether it's through gentle purring, affectionate headbutts, or simply being a constant companion, I'll remind my humans how amazingly awesome it is to live with cats.
• Get adopted:  Last but not least, I resolve to get my very own forever home this year.  Click on the link below to make my resolution come true!

AMERICAN CATS:  THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE CUDDLY -- is a soon-to-be-released documentary movie about cats which features our own Dr. Susan and scenes shot here at the Ladew Cat Sanctuary.  

Correspondent, Amy Hoggart ("Full Frontal" with Samantha Bee) brings viewers along on her journey to uncover the truth about declawing, which can have devastating impacts on feline health.  This soon to be released documentary movie features Paw Project founder, Dr. Jennifer Conrad, as well as our own Dr. Susan and scenes shot here at the Ladew Cat Sanctuary (your Ladewbie might even be in a few scenes!)  

Documentary filmmaker Todd Bieber's latest satirical expose is a not to be missed film for all cat lovers.  

American Cats: The Good, The Bad and The Cuddly is expected to have wide media coverage and you and your cat(s) can show your support and be a part of this very significant documentary. 

Filming has been completed and the project is now in post-production with a tentative release date early 2024.  The producers are planning to include open and closing credits (see link below for options) featuring the names of donors and their cats who support the film's anti-declawing message. 

Rosie and Daisy are showing their support and  will have their names and picture at the end of the film.  Former Ladewbie Daisy (left) has chosen CATering (because she never misses a meal)  and her "sister" Rosie is down for Fur and Makeup. 

The opportunity to secure your place in the credits will only be available for a limited time so click on the button below to see the many titles that your kitty can earn without getting off the couch and help us end the practice of declawing cats!