For the friends of the Independent Cat Society, a no-kill cat shelter Fall 2013 #139

- A Tale of a Great SeniorCody’s “Kitizen” Choice ine years ago, Brandon and Carl Johnston came to ICS looking to add a new member to their family. Carl was sure that he wanted a kitten, but Brandon had a strong belief that the cat that they were meant to have would choose them. This situationN had all the elements of a conflict in the making. Meanwhile, at the shelter a very large and very fluffy gray and white nine year old named Furball was waiting in Nook for another chance at a home. Furball had lived with an older man who had recently passed away, and so became another one of ICS's wonderful older cats who all too often spend year after year in the shelter waiting for the home that never materializes. Nine year old cats are at the far end of middle age: too old to rock 'n roll but still too young to die. Furball quickly became a shelter character, with his impressive presence and engaging personality. This writer remembers him well, and you just had to love him.

Brandon and Carl toured the rooms at the shelter, admiring and interacting with the cats. Being animal lovers, they saw many cats that were appealing, but none that Brandon felt were saying they wanted to be with them. When they walked into Nook, everything changed. Furball walked up to Brandon and made it clear that he was ready to go home with him, preferably right away.

Not that Carl was easy to convince. He was worried about Furball's age and how long they would have him. Carl was also concerned about the upkeep that Furball's glorious coat would require. To no avail—Brandon was adamant. In his words, “I kind of insisted.” So just like that, Furball became Cody and a member of a family. Jenny, one of our beloved senior cats in the (continued on page 4 — Cody’s Choice) room Sing-Sing.

Featured Photographer: NinaG Photography This month, we are featuring the photography of a special local artist, NinaG. Nina and her husband work tirelessly for animal rescues across Northwest Indiana, and recently, they turned our shelter into a photo studio for a day. They have captured some truly elegant pictures of our kitties, and we thank them for their efforts and support of animal welfare.

The hunk of love that was Furball, relatxing in the sun

Adoptable Cats, Upcoming Events, and more inside! Calendar of Events

Published for the friends of the September Independent Cat Society, Inc. PO Box 735, Furry Fun Fair Westville, IN 46391 September 21, 11am - 2pm (219) 785-4936 Michigan City Mall, Michigan City, Indiana Web: www.catsociety.org Email: [email protected] Also on Facebook: www.facebook.com/indcatsociety October The Independent Cat Society, Inc., Aunt Kitty’s Trash and Treasure Sale founded in 1977, is a non-profit, no- kill cat shelter on US Rt 6 at the October 5, 10am - 3pm Porter/LaPorte County Line Road in October 6, 10am - 3pm Westville, Indiana. Join us for food, fun, and bargains galore at our shelter! All proceeds go to support the cats and kittens of the Our mission is to promote the welfare of all animals, especially Independent Cat Society cats, by reducing pet overpopulation, Drop off your items on Friday, October 4 from 9am - 6pm educating the public, preventing (No clothing or large furniture items please) cruelties to animals, promoting responsible pet ownership, and working for more humane legislation. Pumpkin Festival October 5-6 Adoption hours: Prairie Meadow Park, Westville, Indiana Saturday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Sunday, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Others by appointment. Shelter Building 101 Please call (219) 785-4936. October 13 12 noon - 4 pm About our Adoption Fees Include: Spay/neuter, vet exam, In honor of National Feral Cat Day (October 16th) feline leukemia and FIV test; age- Workshop on building winter feral cat shelters. appropriate vaccinations; parasite Ogden Dunes Volunteer Fire Department treatment; tattoo ID/microchip; 30 Day No-Cost Pet Insurance; and free post-adoption participating vet visit. Please check our website or shelter November for monthly adoption specials! Black Cat Boogie Board of Directors: November 2, 5:30pm - 9pm President: Old Town Banquet Center, Anastasia Trekles Vice-President: 711 Calumet Avenue Judy Lindmark Valparaiso, Indiana Recording Secretary: (see ticket order form on page 6) Judy Dean Corresponding Secretary: Carol Albrecht Treasurer: November 2: Join the Party! Natalie Cebulski Board Members: That’s right, this year we will be celebrating ICS and our Diana Foster members and volunteers once again with our annual Black Cat Gail Frieden Boogie fundraising dinner. Come join us at 5:30pm at the Old Paulette Gonzalez Town Banquet Center at 711 Calumet Avenue in Valparaiso, Indiana to meet old and new friends, participate in raffles and Joan Hildebrand silent auctions for wonderful and rare items, and of course, eat, drink, and be merry!

2 President’s Message

Isn’t it wonderful how cats can win friends and influence people without ever reading a book. – Anonymous

At ICS, we strive to provide our cats with excellent care in a clean and homelike environment. As you might imagine, this is quite a challenge given our current buildings and the number of cats we care for! We've learned that in a facility that houses large Please note: We do not use litter pan numbers of cats, it's crucial to have cleanable surfaces. In order to do this, and to liners, newspapers, or pine cleaners improve the quality of health for our beloved cats, we have seen the need to revamp and like Pine Sol. Thank you! update our facilities to promote a healthier and more sanitary environment. Office Supplies After consulting with veterinary professionals, our dream is to put durable and easily cleanable Stamps Kuranda cat trees (see http://kuranda.com/cat-beds) in all of the rooms. The PVC frame and Various colored 2-pocket folders, vinyl fabric can be fully sanitized, and they can be made soft and cuddly with washable fleece with business card slots and fabric. Kuranda cat trees are highly rated and recommended for facilities such as ours, Letter-Size Manilla file folders and even better, they offer ICS and other shelters substantial discounts. Cleaning Supplies Can you help us with this much-needed improvement for the Bleach health and well being of our cats? There are two ways to Laundry soap (prefer unscented) donate. One, you can donate any amount you can directly to Dryer Sheets ICS for the purpose of purchasing Kuranda beds. Every Liquid hand soap amount earmarked “Kuranda” will go to purchase a cat bed. Dish soap Paper plates Or, you could purchase a product directly from Kuranda. The Paper towels ICS wish list is on the Kuranda.com website at 30-gallon trash bags http://kuranda.com/donate/8729. Make your purchase at Tall Kitchen garbage bags their reduced price, and the bed will be shipped directly to ICS. Simple Green cleaner ICS then receives a notification of your tax-deductible donation. Shaklee Basic G concentrate Meanwhile, as we continue to improve the immediate Medical Supplies atmosphere of our existing building, proceeds from the Microwaveable heating discs sales of Rainbow Bridge Garden Memorial Bricks continue Science Diet AD, ID to grow the ICS Building Fund. We are investigating grants Keoki says, “Please help Wellness grain-free food and other options to help us reach our goal of a new building my friends and me stay on our grounds for ICS cats and kittens. Whenever this comfy and clean!” Building and Grounds becomes a reality and ICS moves into a new building, the 20 x 25 x 5 Aire Bear furnace donated, high quality Kuranda beds will move right with us. filters Water softener pellets As always, we appreciate your continued support as we create a home away from home 16" x 20" x 1" fiberglass for our cats and kittens while they wait for their new adoptive families. Please stop by furnace filters during our weekend hours (Saturday 10-4 and Sunday 1-4) or by appointment and visit Replacement filters for Hunter the kitties – they always love to see a friendly face and will be so thrilled to show off Air Purifier Model #30930 their new and improved surroundings! Side door and help with installation

Sincerely, Other Staci Trekles, ICS Board President Dry cat food, kitten and adult, Prefer Hill’s Science Diet but use other brands for donations to those in need Ground flavors of Fancy Feast and grain-free foods Kuranda Plastic cleanable cat trees Scoopable and clay litters Gift cards to Lowe’s, Menard’s, Home Depot, etc. Safeguard SG-36D humane traps Turbo-Tracks Replacement Scratchers If you haven’t been to one of our yard sales, you’re missing out! Extra Large Litter Scoops Small blankets, rugs, towels Yard Sale items • Calico Corny’s Catnip • Toys, Baked Goods, and other fun stuff! Special Services Saturday, October 5 and Sunday, October 6th — 10 am - 3 pm Carpenters, Plumbers, Painters On the shelter grounds at 4061 County Line Road, Westville, IN (at the corner of County Line Road and Hwy 6) The cats thank you! Ask us for a Drop off your items on Friday, October 4 from 9am - 6pm receipt for tax-deductible donations.

3 Cody’s Choice (continued from page 1)

Thankfully, there was no crisis and it didn't take long for Carl to admit have real appreciation for being given another chance. Someday, when that Brandon was right, and to fall head over heels in love with Cody. they are ready, there will be another cat joining their family. But this He was happy to learn that a nine year old cat could still be playful, time, Brandon and Carl both will be looking for the cat who chooses and appreciative that Cody was so incredibly affectionate. Carl proudly them. Cody would expect no less. tells how every day when he came home from work, Cody would reach up and hug him. In short, Carl is now a believer in the virtue of being Would you consider adopting an older cat and learning for yourself what “chosen.” a rewarding experience it can be? We have several older, loving, vivacious cats that would absolutely jump at the chance to share your With the change of name, Cody began a whole new chapter of his life. day! Right now, until the end of October, ICS is waiving adoption fees for Far from kicking back and lounging through his senior years, he was a all approved applications on cats 5 and older. Now's the purrfect chance living embodiment that “You're never too old to rock and roll if you're to get the love you have always deserved and that fur coat you've still too young to die.” As a member of Brandon and Carl's family, always wanted. Adopt today; time is flying! Come and visit at ICS! Cody made his presence felt. Cody made it his business to do house inspections on a regular basis, opening all the bathroom drawers and every cabinet in the kitchen. During the holidays, he set up camp at the bottom of the Christmas tree. Presents? Who needs presents when you have a big beautiful cat like Cody? Before packing up the tree, the bottom always had to undergo major fur removal. Cody was in charge and everyone knew it, even the two dogs who later joined the family circle. Needless to say, Cody was adored.

Cody recently passed away at the age of eighteen. Both Brandon and Carl agree that Cody was the best cat that they had ever had, the most human and with the greatest personality, and they have never, ever regretted adopting him. Brandon feels that theirs was a win-win relationship, that they gave each other nine great years. He has this advice for people considering adopting an older cat: “Don't think about how much time they can give you or the value they're bringing to you, think about the value you will bring to them.” Carl concurs, pointing out that you never know how long you will have with any companion animal, and that it's amazingly rewarding to give an older cat love in a home of their own, fulfilling the rest of their lives. Brandon and Carl feel that there are some real advantages to adopting an older cat, especially not having to endure the “crazy Cody giving one of his famous hugs to Brandon. kitten” phase. They also argue that older cats are more loveable and

Cat ...a poem by Carol Robin Thank you, I am Le Chat, El Gato, The cat e want to give a special TNRDorothy... Thank You to the memory of A worthy predator Dorothy Miller. Dorothy passed away June 16th in Michigan Tis true City. She was truly one of the special people in this world, But I also am Wquietly making a difference, never expecting thanks or accolades. A gentle She had a special way of helping people AND animals... almost invisible, always offering what was needed most. She was most Loving companion recently involved with the men’s shelter in Michigan City, but I met In youth I scamper Dorothy many, many years ago when the Michiana Humane Society Flying about on padded feet was a run-down block building on Karwick Road and we were trying to I jump, I play chasing real make that a better place. Over the years she checked in periodically with us to see what we “needed” in our efforts to help cats. And invisible creatures Who inhabit my childish world The ICS TNR Squad will be commemorating Dorothy with a brick Then I mature into a more dignified in our garden. If you’d like to donate to Dorothy’s brick, send a And graceful being check to ICS indicating “TNR-Dorothy’s Brick” in the memo line. So fitting—one of Dorothy’s passions and interests was Willing to play but no longer gardening. Though she didn’t have cats of her own, always Dashing about in energetic frenzy harboring a house full of dogs, she fed cats and supported cats I curl in a lap, snuggle on the bed and supported TNR and the “good work” in her unique way. We think she’d appreciate the gesture and hope it serves to inspire I long for a home, food in a bowl Diva - a sweet mature lady in our Sing-Sing room all who knew her to continue doing the good work, no matter A sunny window to watch the birds what it is. She truly was one of the special people in this world, I ask for little but give much in love and the world is lesser a place for her passing.

4 Adoptable Cats These gorgeous seniors would love to bring a touch of sophistication to your home! Lilly Mocha is the coolest old lady you’ve ever met! is a sweet senior tortie with a stubby She may be a special needs senior, but little tail. Her unique looks are matched she does not let that slow her down! by unique charm and a penetrating gaze. Meet her and you will be captivated by Visit her in Kitty Korner and you will her charm and spirit. surely want to take her home forever!

Silly Monica is a sweet black and white beauty. Her is the resident diva of Bowers. Few can white mustache may make her look quite match her graceful elegance and fluffy silly indeed, but she is no pushover. This black/brown coat. This lovely queen will lady is all business when it comes to surely hold court for you any day of the cuddling – and treats! week.

Checkers Hattie is a true lady. She has been waiting is a lovely long-haired tortie who seeks patiently for her forever home for many quiet and a warm bed to call her own. years now, and hopes that someday a Come to see her in Sing-Sing, and you will quiet home and cuddly lap will be hers to surely be captivated by her regal charm enjoy. Visit her in Sing-Sing and you will and loving purrsonality! want to help make her dream come true. ICS Board of Directors Elections

It’s time once again to bring in new voulnteers to serve on the What is “board service,” you ICS Board of Directors. This year, there are four positions open: might ask? Simply put, the ICS Board of Directors helps • Vice-President govern the business of the Independent Cat Society. This • Corresponding Secretary includes everything from •Two at-large seats ensuring that the organization is fiscally responsible to The preliminary ballot includes the following candidates: maintaining presence and working with other groups Vice-President within the animal rescue and non-profit community of Judy Lindmark Northwest Indiana. Corresponding Secretary Full descriptions of the duties Carol Albrecht for all members and officers within the nine-person Board Member at large Nellie wants to help us of Directors can be found in get out the vote! our bylaws, located on our Diana Foster website at: http://www.catsociety.org/about-ics/board-of-directors. Would you like to add your name to this list? Contact the Nominations Committee (chairperson, Cate Amador) at Board candidates will be introduced to the membership during the [email protected] and let us know which seat you would like, regularly scheduled November board meeting on November 4, and provide us with a brief description of your qualifications. We 2013, held at Purdue University North Central in room LSF-170A are always looking for new members of our organization, and hope at 6:00pm. Elections will be held in a general membership you will take this opportunity to participate in the important work meeting on Thursday November 21, 2013, at 7:00pm at the of board service. Valparaiso Public Library.

5 Upcoming ICS Fundraisers

HaveICS your Calendar pet become part of history as we put together our very ForMarilyn’s the holidays, ICS Bakery will be selling Pies Marilyn’s homemade pies for first ICS Calendar! That’s right, you could be part of something $8.00 each! Located in Hobart, IN, Marilyn’s is one of the premier special by having your pet’s picture (cat, dog or otherwise) on any bakeries in the area. Most pies are sold frozen with baking day in 2014, or even honor them with a instructions: whole month! Act soon to get in on this brand new fundraising event! Also, Apple, Apple Crumb every picture purchased in memory of Indiana Blueberry and Blueberry Crumb a pet that has passed will be entered Very Berry (Blueberry, Blackberry, Strawberry, Red Raspberry) to win a custom brick in our Rainbow Sugar Free (made with Splenda) Apple or Cherry Bridge Garden. Michigan Cherry or Cherry Crumb Strawberry Rhubarb Photos will be accepted through Wouldn’t you want to see November 2, 2013. We will begin These pies are baked and ready to eat, or freeze for later: beauty like this all year taking orders for printed calendars Pumpkin long? after this date. French Silk Pecan Single Day picture: $10 Featured Month picture: $50 Stay tuned to our Facebook page and shelter starting in October Sponsor an ICS Cat’s picture in the calendar: $10 for details on this exciting new fundraiser!

Calendar order forms may be picked up at the shelter, or downloaded online from our website at http://catsociety.org. Black Cat Boogie Annual Fundraising Dinner

The Black Cat Boogie is November 2, 2013 this year, and we would like you to be a part of it! Please use the order form below to clip and mail to us at the address below. You may also pay online through Paypal at our website: http://catsociety.org.

6 Tips for Keeping an Senior Cat Healthy and Happy!

s cats age, just like all of us, their needs change. While “cat years” are not Top1. The Ten personality Reasons of an older to cat Adopt is already a established, Senior making Cat Acalculated quite the same as “dog it easier to match the right cat to your home. years,” roughly speaking, a ten-year 2. Older cats are less demanding and require less supervision old cat is equivalent to a 50-year than youngsters. old human, and by 15, your cat is 3. The medical history of an older cat is known, and if you adopt close to 73 human years old. from ICS, we will ensure that your cat is healthy, Bonnie, our oldest resident, was spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and has complete medical close to 19 – or nearly 90 in history available. human years – when she sadly 4. Older cats are already litter trained, and often are much departed for the Rainbow Bridge in cleaner! August of this year. 5. An adult cat is much more likely to jump into your lap and snuggle up than jump on your counters, tables, or curtains. Your cat can live for many years indeed, and those years will be 6. Adult cats are more “kid-smart” and not as fragile or as likely happier and healthier if you pay to advertently play too rough with your small child. attention her special needs as she 7. Seniors love seniors! Older cats want to share companionship ages. Below are some tips to help your adult cat feel like as and quiet time, and make wonderful companions. energetic as a kitten all through her life! 8. Older cats still like to play, but don’t demand playtime 24/7. 9. An adult cat makes a great companion for other animals in the household, especially those that don’t desire to share the • Add more moisture. Cats thrive on high-moisture, high-protein rough-and-tumble lifestyle of a kitten. diets as they age. Compare labels of foods carefully, and be 10. And the number one reason to adopt a senior cat: You will sure to choose those foods that use high-quality ingredients, bring joy and greater longevity to a needy kitty. Adopting a few fillers, and higher levels of protein and taurine. If possible, “senior kitzen” gives a new lease on life, and your new friend you may wish to add some fresh cooked meat, such as chicken will give you love in return! breast, into your cat’s diet. Some additional information can be found at http://www.hillspet.com/cat-care/protein-cats-special- needs-ma.html. BonnieBonnie: was a sweetA Tribute old soul – she never met a human or a cat that • Watch those teeth! Keep an eye on your cat’s teeth and gums she could not get along with. Bonnie spent most of her life at ICS, to be sure that they are healthy and free of swelling, bleeding, and while she never found her forever home, she enjoyed a great or discoloration that can be associated with gingivitis or other deal of attention and the joy of being loved by all of our volunteers mouth maladies. A combination of wet and dry food in a cat’s and staff. While Bonnie was limited in her diet due to food allergies, diet may help her loosen tartar build-up on teeth, and if she was often rewarded with pieces of freshly cooked chicken, with possible, consult with your vet about brushing your cat’s teeth some volunteers even bringing special cuts just for her! That is how periodically. loved and special Bonnie was, and even though we lost Bonnie in August, she will always remain in our hearts. • Get check-ups more frequently. Most vets recommend that senior cats get a check-up at least twice per year to monitor for She is pictured below with her old friend, Boy George, another common problems, such as kidney-related diseases. long-lived ICS resident, who is surely resting happily with his old friend over the Rainbow Bridge.

• Avoid overfeeding your senior cat. As metabolisms slow down, kitty can get heavier more easily, which can in turn lead to health problems such as diabetes. Feed two or three small meals throughout the day instead of one large meal as your cat ages.

• Help kitty stay clean. As cats age, they become less able to groom themselves as well, leaving extra oils in their coats that can lead to matting and dandruff. Be sure to brush your cat regularly to help her maintain a healthy and skin and coat.

• Play with your senior! Sure, she may not be as spry as she used to be, but all cats need exercise and attention in order to thrive and stay healthy. Encourage your cat to play with dangling toys or laser lights that they can chase, and be sure to give her lots of love! Boy George and Bonnie

7 Spanky: An ICS Happy Ending

panky and his brother, Alfalfa, were two of the most was still a mystery why Spanky’s was deteriorating. Food seemed handsome cats in ICS' room, Freckles: Spanky with his long, to go right through him, he was losing clumps of his beautiful flowing gray coat, soulful green eyes, and perky, questioning coat, and he was a shadow of his former self. Spanky was caged Sears, and Alfalfa with his luxurious black mane and coat. Both and given meds, but he only got more depressed and kept losing boys were very shy, but we soon learned that Spanky loved to be weight. Everyone feared we were losing our sweet boy. scratched if you just approached him slowly from the side. Finally, Dr. Brooke McAfee of McAfee Animal Hospital decided we Though all the boys would gather around at brushing time, we'd needed to do one more test, which was rather expensive. Room always seek out Spanky to make sure his long fur got all the moms & volunteers chipped in to help pay for the test, and at last knots brushed out. we had a diagnosis. Spanky had a hard-to-detect parasite, and a Last year, Spanky couple other issues going on, which may have been there since had a bout with an he came to the shelter. All the cats in Spanky's room and the ear infection, and neighboring Kiki’s Room were put on a 2-week course of had to have treatment. Soon the light came back on in Spanky's eyes and he surgery on it, was seeking affection and enjoying attention once more. He giving him one gained weight, his lovely coat started growing again, and we all “floppy” ear, which breathed a sigh of relief that our Spanky was back. made him even more endearing. Fast forward to August, 2013. A woman, Angela S., came to the shelter looking for a shy, special needs cat to foster. After Then last year we spending the entire day with all of the ICS kitties, Angela finally noticed Spanky chose Spanky. All of the trials and tribulations of his life before was losing weight. are now a dim memory as he starts his new life with Angela, the He'd always been most loving foster mom a cat could ever ask for. Spanky is a slender boy, but pictured here in his new home – loving life and living large. His is he was getting truly an ICS Success Story! much thinner than was healthy. After Won’t you help bring that same light and happiness to another Spanky, after coming back from a serious illness, a couple trips to deserving kitty? Perhaps, to Spanky’s brother Alfalfa, who is still and in his new home! A true ICS success story! the vet, and waiting patiently for his forever home and would love to meet you! several tests, it Volunteers Needed!

CS is looking for a few good volunteers! Each month, we participate in many fundraising events and other activities, including our open houses, yard sales, and our many major events Ithroughout the year. In order to make these events, both large and small, a success, and in order to keep our shelter in tip-top shape, we rely on the kindness and hard work of volunteers. Do you have just a little time in your schedule that you can devote to some cats in need? Contact us today and find out how you can help!

Volunteers can: 1. Be a foster parent 2. Be a room mom or dad 3. Help with transportation to and from the vet 4. Be an adoptions counselor 5. Make crafts or baked good for fundraisers 6. Help setup, coordinate, and run fundraising events 7. Join a committee such as PR, fundraising, grants development, trap-neuter-release work (TNR), or technology 8. Help socialize shelter cats by playing with them, talking to them, and petting them 9. Help clean, repair, and maintain the shelter grounds and buildings by providing skilled carpentry, plumbing, landscaping, How can you say no to this face? and other services

Join us today and truly make a difference in our cats’ lives!

8 Low Cost Spay/Neuter Options are Growing! ICS Vouchers are available at the ICS shelter on Saturdays from 10 AM-4PM and Sundays from 1-4 PM. (Others hours may be available by appointment only). There are two different levels of Voucher. (Payment by cash or money order only (No credit/debit cards/no checks)

• Basic Level: includes spay or neuter, first distemper vaccine, rabies vaccine, worming, ear mite treatment, and identification tattoo/microchip. • Comprehensive Level: includes everything in the Basic level plus flea treatment, FELV and FIV testing, and the first Feline leukemia vaccine.

After purchasing a voucher, call one of the veterinary clinics listed below to schedule an appointment. ICS Spay/Neuter vouchers are only accepted at the following veterinary clinics:

• McAfee Animal Hospital: 219-462-5901 651 Eastport Centre Dr., Valparaiso Basic - $65 Comprehensive - $90 • Westchester Animal Clinic: 219-926-1194 55E US Highway 20, Porter Basic level only - $73

Dr. Anderson’s Feline Reduction Center holds a clinic every Saturday in Beverly Shores. The cost for the surgery is $50. The Rabies and distemper vaccines incur an extra charge, while ear cleaning, a pain shot, and a shot of penicillin is included. The scheduling number is 219-861-9006. Call and leave a message that you want to schedule your cat for a particular Saturday, and clinic staff will call you back with drop-off/pick-up details.

Other local options: • Neuter Scooter: www.neuterscooter.com • Pet Neutering and Adoption: www.petneutering.com (DeMotte, Indiana) • The Estelle Marcus Animal Clinic: www.hscalumet.org or (219) 924-7140 (Munster, Indiana) The Estelle Marcus Animal Clinic offers low-cost spays, neuters, and vaccinations for the following groups: — Low-income pet owners on government assistance (such as Food Stamps, Medicaid, Unemployment or Disability) — Owners of pit bulls and pit bull mixes — Residents of Gary, Indiana — Feral cat caretakers (call 219-924-7140 for information on humane trap rental) — Animal shelters, animal controls, and rescue groups They also have 2 special programs: 1. Low-Income Senior Program: Seniors over the age of 65 and on government assistance (other than Social Security) can get their pets spayed, neutered and vaccinated for free! 2. Spay Your Momma Program: Low-income owners of a dogs or cats with litters can get moms and her litters spayed, neutered, and vaccinated for rabies for free! Owners must be on government assistance or Social Security. Call Calumet SNAP at 877-819-3300 for more information.

Chicago options: • NAWS: www.nawsus.org or (708) 478-5102 (Mokena, Illinois) • PAWS Chicago: The Lurie Spay/Neuter Clinic or mobile unit, www.pawschicago.org or (773) 521-7729 (Chicago, Illinois) • Anti Cruelty Society: www.anticruelty.org or (312) 644-8338 (Chicago, Illinois) For help with spaying and neutering of free-roaming cats, please email us at: [email protected]

Colin and Cinder are brothers who look just like small panthers, but they are loveable sweeties in spite of their exotic good lucks. They are 6 years old, and both are declawed. Take a walk on the wild side!

JJ Temple may look like a tough customer, but he’s is a handsome older gentleman who lives got a heart of gold. If you start petting in our Kitty Korner room. He is a sweet, him, he may not want you to ever leave! loving boy and would make anyone a Be sure to visit this gentleman in our wonderful forever friend. room called Nook.

9 Memorials & Tributes... from 6/15/2013 to 9/1/2013 In Memory of — Kenneth Humbert, who will be missed by his many friends and family, including Our Beloved Sabrina, sadly missed but greatly loved – from Roxanne Myers and Barry and Susan Eppley, Marge Gosnell, Joe and Marsha Martorano, the Pelath her sisters Marcie, Gracie, Zoey, Olivia and Sophia Family, Mary Beth and Richard Schacht, John and Florence Troyer, and Donald and Gail A. Coons, honored by James Coons Darlene Vanhoy. Rica, a 16 year-old ICS adoptee who was a joy always – from C.J. Jeha In Apology - we missed this announcement in the previous edition: In Honor of — Eve Gardner, a wonderful woman and a blessing to animals, from Dr. Randi Olson Eve Gardner, honored by Eric Whitlock and Sharlene Wozniak

Just a small sample of the greatSummer people who help Donor ICS - thanks Listto all for your support and kindness

2nd Chance Games Movies & Music Euler, Delilah Kovalow-St John, David/Karen Sanders, Steven/Susan Albanese, Richard/Dorothy Fizer, Timothy Kreiger, Susan Schmick, Bruce/Leslie Albrecht, Carol Forbes, Sandra Kretz, Jane Schwoegler, Joseph/Barbara Bauml, Lillian Friend, Tracy Kronland, Deanna Seedorf, Joan Bevil, Lucille Fuller, Ellen Matulionis, Bridget Shalapsik, Michael/Bonnie Borth, Philip Gallian, Becca Meyer, Robert/Lorraine Showers, Henry Bowen, John/Laurie Gasper, Gary/Arlene Mounce, Shirley/Lloyd Smith, Jack Bryant, Tommy/Shirley Gault, Robert/Patricia Nelson, William/Priscilla Stanley, Vernon/Brunetta Burns, Robert/Sandra Gault, Robert/Patricia Novak, Mary Stemmler, Sandy Burrus, Marie-Danielle Goodson, Anthony/Sandra Novak, Thomas Tompkins, David/June Carmody, Nancy Gothe, Arlene Novak, Thomas Totten, Ray/Donna Chojecki, Ronald/Pamela Grygotis, Gary O'Neil, Sally Trekles, Anastasia Cieslak, Judith Hancock, Lisa Ostrowski, Phyllis Tylicki, Eugene/ Jo Ann Ciszek, Margaret Hecht, Alcee Overmyer, Gary/Beverly Vajda, Joseph Connors, Gary/Susan Helmick, Margaret Palen, Thomas Vargas, Albert Coslet, Janice Hemmley, Sandy Palla, Brenda Vereb, Irene Davids, Nataliya Hoover, Sandra Peterson, Frank Vrablic, Pamela Davis, Kathy Jerome, Diane Rantz, Marlene Waluk, Peggy Jo DePirro, Richard/Karen Kecse, Eleanor Renwick, Olive Lou Wiegand, Morris Donzero, Kevin Keltz, Pam Ripperdan, Dorothy Wu, Kristina Dow, Jason/Patricia Kleckner, Tom/Nancy Roseman, Brian/Wendy Zosso, Bonnie

If we have omitted anyone, please write or call us so we can include them in the next newsletter. Corporate Sponsors and Partners We would like to take a moment to recognize our valuable corporate sponsors. Without their help, many of our events and activities would not be possible. We hope that you will support their businesses as they have supported ICS. AJ Canopy Rental and Sales Michigan City Animal Hospital Allegius Credit Union McAfee Animal Hospital Anderson Foundation Purdue University North Central Arbor View Animal Hospital Ryan Newman Foundation Aurelio’s Pizza (LaPorte, IN) Smoochie Pooch Pet Salon and Boutique Bissell Foundation Brandt’s Supply Unity Foundation Indiana 105 Vale Park Animal Hospital Look for us at our eBay store

http://myworld.ebay.com/independent*cat*society/

10 Sponsor-A-Cat! from your Spokescat, Corky i, I’m Corky, the spokescat for our If you’d like to help ICS by sponsoring one Sponsor-a-Cat program. You can of Corky’s friends, please fill out the slip usually find me hanging out in below and mail it back to the shelter, or HDisco, relaxing, playing, or peering out the drop off the slip in person and choose your windows at the birds. special cat.

What’s Sponsor-a-Cat, you might ask? Why, We can pick a cat for you, or if you prefer, it’s of the most important programs at the you can tell us what kind of cat you’d like – Independent Cat Society! And I’m not just young or old, male or female, gray, black, saying that – Sponsor-A-Cat is one of the calico, tabby, or tortie. biggest sources of revenues for ICS each year, and is something that my friends and Once you find your sponsor cat, you’ll get a I rely upon. We love your support and 4x6 picture of your cat and a story telling generosity, and especially love it when you you how the kitty came to live at the come to visit your sponsor cat! shelter.

You see, Sponsor-a-Cat is a great option In honor of the upcoming Black Cat for those who wish to help, but cannot Boogie, below are a few black cats that take in another pet at their home. It’s also need sponsors – and adopters! Come and great to give as a gift to a loved one - just visit some of these lovely, sleek felines. It sponsor a kitty in their name and they will will make everyone’s day brighter, both cat receive the good feelings that come with and human alike. All of these cats are, of helping a needy cat all year long! It’s the Corky, your Spokescat course, all ready to go to their forever gift that keeps on giving! homes, and are eagerly waiting to meet you. There’s something special about each In fact, to help me promote Sponsor-a-Cat nice makeover. What do you think? Am I and every one! this issue, photographer Nina G gave me a handsome or what?

MJ Mars Lulu is dignified and not pushy, is an elegant black cat is a petite 6-mo old but really enjoys being with out-of-this-world sweetie with a cute, petted or getting appeal! Because black distinctive face. She will scratched and he is quite cats wait longer to be cuddle, snuggle and crawl playful. He's a superstar adopted, Mars has spent up on your shoulders. just like his namesake! his entire life at the shelter. Why not bring him home and show him a new world? Amadeo Cleome Shaq is a 4-year-old "teddy is a cute and playful black is big, handsome, and ready bear." He is very beauty who would just to play! He needs a quiet affectionate. This cuddly love to be your new best home where he can relax on boy would love to sit on friend. Visit him in Kiki’s his own, but he also needs your lap and be petted. Room and you’re sure for some room to roam and an affectionate welcome! maybe play some rough-and-tumble with you.

I want to Sponsor-A-Cat from the Independent Cat Society I have enclosed a check for: ______$180 for one year of Sponsor-A-Cat ______$10 for the first month of Sponsor-A-Cat. I pledge to send $10 each month to Sponsor-A-Cat ______$15 for the first month of Sponsor-A-Cat. I pledge to send $15 each month to Sponsor-A-Cat ______I pledge to send the amount that fits my budget and feels “right” to Sponsor-A-Cat each month Please mark “SAC” on your envelope and check memo. The sponsor will receive a photo and biography of his or her Sponsor-A-Cat. Name of sponsor______Address______City______State______ZIP______Telephone ______Month of sponsor’s birthday______email address______

Clip and mail to: Independent Cat Society, Inc., PO Box 735, Westville, IN 46391

11 Independent Cat Society Non-Profit Organization PO Box 735 US Postage Westville, IN 46391 PAID Valparaiso, IN Permit No. 134

•Don’tFurry Fun miss Fair these events! Twitter: @IndCatSociety September 21 – Michigan City Mall, Michigan City, Indiana Aunt Kitty’s Trash and Treasure Sale • facebook.com/ October 5 & 6 (Donations accepted October 4) – ICS shelter, Westville, Indian indcatsociety • Pumpkin Festival October 4-6 – Prairie Meadow Park, Westville, Indiana http://catsociety.org • Shelter Building 101 October 13 – Ogden Dunes Volunteer Fire Department • Black Cat Boogie Annual Fundraising Dinner November 2 – Old Town Banquet Center, Valparaiso, Indiana • SELF Christmas Bazaar November 9 – SELF School, 750 Ransom Road, Valparaiso, Indiana

If you’d like to receive the Mewsletter via email, let us know at [email protected].

Can you help the Independent Cat Society cats? Become a Member! Donate or Volunteer! Annual Dues: ______I am donating $______for the care of the cats and kittens.

______$1000 Corporation ______I am donating $______to the building fund. ______I am donating $______to the TNR/Assisted Spay & Neuter Fund. ______$500 Life ______I will help groom cats at the shelter. ______I will help give cats their medications. ______$100 Gold Star ______I will help at fundraising events. ______I will be a foster parent. ______$50 Family ______I will donate my cat-themed artwork or crafts for fundraising events. ______I will bake for fundraising events. ______$25 Individual ______I will make adoption follow-up telephone calls. ______$1 0 Student ______I will help cats get good homes by becoming an adoption counselor. ______I will help take care of the grounds and maintain the shelter. ______$10 Senior ______I will distribute flyers for fundraisers.

Name______Address______City______State______ZIP______

____This is a new address. ____ Do not send a “thank you” note. Phone______email______Clip and send to: Independent Cat Society, Inc., PO Box 735, Westville, IN 46391