Feline Conservation Federation July/August 2006

Volume 50, Issue 4Feline Conservation Federation July/August 2006

5050thth AnniversaryAnniversary Feline Conservation Federation Officers and Directors Contact Information

Founder: Catherine Cisin

Copy Editor/Layout: Legal Director: BRANCHES: Mike Friese Evelyn Shaw 204 S. Batavia Street 13262 Cleveland Road SW MEFES: Midwest Exotic Feline Orange, CA 92868 Pataskala, OH 43062 Educational Society 714-532-4041 740-964-9040 Pam Hotle [email protected] [email protected] 5821 W Mooresville Road Indianapolis, IN 46221 OFFICERS: LIFE DIRECTORS: 317-856-1115 [email protected] President: J.B. Anderson Bob Turner 1825 E. Nashville Church Rd. 4467 E. Dayhuff Rd. Ashland, MO 65010 Mooresville, IN 46158 573-657-4088 317-831-0817 [email protected] Robert Bean CHECK OUT OUR NEW P. O. Box 26201 FCF WEB ADDRESS! Vice President: Knoxville, TN 37912 The new FCF web site is now online Kevin Chambers 865-938-0702 at www.theFCF.com 7816 N CR 75 W [email protected] Shelburn, IN 47879 You can also find us at www.lioc.org 812-397-2302 Lynn Culver and www.felineconservation.org [email protected] 141 Polk 664 Mena, AR 71953 Members are invited to participate in Secretary/Treasurer: 479-394-5235 e-mail list discussions on-line at: Harold Epperson [email protected] 3310 Remington Drive http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ Indianapolis, IN 46227 Nanette McGann The_FCF/ 317-889-3922 10100 SW 21 Terrace [email protected] Miami, FL 33165 305-553-8192 DIRECTORS: [email protected] Background: Close-up of Roger Newson’s Isis Conservation/Education: DEPARTMENTS: Carol Bohning P.O. Box 711 FCF Feline Facility Accreditation Johnstown, OH 43031 Chairman: 740-966-6059 Kevin Chambers [email protected] 7816 N CR 75 W Shelburn, IN 47879 Advertising and Publicity: 812-397-2302 Marcus Cook [email protected] 25 Highland Park Village, Suite 100 Dallas, TX 75205 Conservation Advisor: 866-755-9735 (toll free) Jim Sanderson, Ph.D. [email protected] 1919 M Street, NW, Suite 600 Washington, DC 20036-3521 Membership Services: USA Carolyne Clendinen 202-912-1803 10816 Lucasville Road [email protected] Manassas, VA 20112 571-252-0527 [email protected] Isis takes a break. Photo: Roger Newson Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Feline Conservation Federation This magazine is published bi-monthly by the LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. d/b/a as the Feline Conservation Federation. We are a non-profit (Federal ID# 59-2048618) non-commercial organization with international membership, devoted to the welfare of exotic felines. The purpose of this publication is to present information about exotic feline conservation, management, and ownership to our members. The material printed is contributed by our members and reflects the point of view of the author but does not necessarily represent the point of view of the organization. FCF’s Statement of Intent is contained in our bylaws, a copy of which can be requested from the secretary. Reproduction of the material in this magazine may not be made without the written permission of the original copyright owners and/or copyright owner FCF. We encourage all members to contribute articles. Articles concerning exotic felines are preferred and gladly accepted. Articles involving other related subjects will also be considered. Letters and responses to articles may be included in the Readers Write column. Submission deadline for the next issue is the tenth of odd numbered months. Please submit all photos and articles to the editor. Persons interested in joining FCF should contact the term director in charge of member services.

Once Upon a Time: An Intro to This Issue . . . 4 1982 ...... 39 1957 ...... 6 1983 ...... 39 1958 ...... 7 1984 ...... 40 1959 ...... 7 1985 ...... 41 1960 ...... 8 1986 ...... 41 1961 ...... 8 1987 ...... 42 1962 ...... 11 1988 ...... 43 1963 ...... 13 1989 ...... 44 1964 ...... 13 1990 ...... 44 1965 ...... 15 1991 ...... 45 1966 ...... 15 1992 ...... 45 1967 ...... 18 1993 ...... 46 1968 ...... 19 1994 ...... 46 1969 ...... 21 1995 ...... 47 1970 ...... 22 1996 ...... 48 1971 ...... 23 1997 ...... 48 1972 ...... 25 1998 ...... 48 1973 ...... 27 1999 ...... 49 1974 ...... 28 2000 ...... 52 1975 ...... 29 2001 ...... 52 Half Century of Covers...... 30 2002 ...... 53 1976 ...... 34 2003 ...... 54 1977 ...... 34 2004 ...... 56 1978 ...... 36 2005 ...... 56 1979 ...... 38 2006 BoD Candidates ...... 57 1980 ...... 38 Updated Bylaws ...... 58 1981 ...... 39 Your Best Shot ...... 59

All ads in this publication are void where prohibited by law. All transactions are between buyer and seller. All buyers and sellers must have proper licenses and permits for all animals Advertising offered for sale or sold. FCF, Inc. does not necessarily endorse or guarantee the honesty of any advertiser. FCF, Inc. reserves the right to edit or reject any subscription ad. No blind animal ads will be accepted. Only FCF members may place ads listing cats for sale. Adoption ads are free of charge for cats that need good homes where no money is involved in the transaction. All ads must contain the name of business or individual advertising. Ads must state whether the individual is a private owner or broker. Full current address with a phone number must be stated in the ad. Display ads are $10 business card, $25.00 quarter page, $50.00 half page, $100 full-page ad. Color ads available, contact Director of Advertising and Publicity, opposite page, for price quotes.

3 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Once upon a time... A little ocelot club lives to celebrate its 50th birthday. Once upon a time, long, long ago, the yearly gathering was a barbeque picnic at be imported. And Congress debated the issue world was very different. We didn’t have Harry and Catherine’s home in Amagansett, as well, eventually passing the Endangered cell phones or fax machines. The home NY. Species Act which prohibited interstate com- computers and Internet hadn’t been invent- Who would have thought that 50 years mercial commerce in captive born endan- ed. Our television signal broadcast in black later the descendent of Catherine’s club, gered species. and white and there were no cable stations now called Feline Conservation Federation, As the membership grew and responsibili- either. This was a time before scientists would publish a magazine averaging 40 ties mounted, Catherine and her staff gave warned of a global warming—or even cool- pages or more, develop a nationally way to officers that were appointed to better ing—threat, and before Congress passed the acclaimed husbandry course (which has serve the membership. The first election held Endangered Species Act. graduated over 400 students), and sponsor in 1974 saw Ken Hatfield win the presiden- It was also during this period of time that an annual convention attended by more cy. Ken was a knowledgeable breeder of New York’s finest ladies shopped at Macy’s than a hundred dedicated feline enthusiasts? many feline species and charismatic leader for exotic fur coats to show off at special Early newsletters held accounts of life who dove into the legislative issues that con- events. These coats were made of furs of with exotic cats, shared stories of the sumed the club. Local, state, and national felines from far off countries: ocelot, leop- incredible bond that was possible, amusing attacks on private ownership were popping ard, cheetah. Dozens were killed, skinned antics of the various species, and pioneering up everywhere in the 1970s. Ken led the and sewn into each coat. breeding success. Unfortunately, early fight to gain the club’s ocelot population And it was during this period that some- newsletters also shared the heartbreak of ‘self-sustaining population’ status. This thing new arrived at the local pet shop. Gor- nutritional disease, foreign object ingestion, would allow members to continue to breed geous offspring saved from the trappers tragic escapes, and with ominous and build- and sell offspring in interstate commerce. who filled the furrier’s orders. These South ing frequency, the greatest threat of them While Congress intended to protect American kittens were offered for sale as all—ordinances to prohibit private owner- endangered species with the ESA, to the pets. Ocelots mostly, but also margay, oncil- ship of ocelots. club’s ocelots it was as if their cats were in la, leopard cat, Geoffroy’s cat—anything Distemper killed many imported wild- the direct path of a freight train. The effort with spots really. And it was during this born kittens. And early veterinary proce- was valiant, but the final effort was lost in time that Catherine Cisin purchased her first dures used sedatives far more dangerous 1979. And in the three decades since the pas- ocelot she named Carlotta and Catherine than the isoflorane gas used today. In fact sage of the final rules to the Endangered began the wondrous journey down the road the newsletter relayed accounts of ocelots Species Act, we have seen our captive ocelot called “spotted love.” that underwent declaw surgery that remind- population spiral downward, creating a Carlotta is the inspiration for the Long ed asleep for a week, requiring the owner to genetic bottleneck from which we may never Island Ocelot Club and Catherine Cisin was tube feed the cat and regularly roll it to pre- recover. the driving force behind the club’s publica- vent pneumonia. Ken was re-elected six times. During that tion and Amagansett headquarters. Cather- In the beginning ocelot owners were met period Shirley Wagner served on the board ine made friends with thousands who were with media curiosity and fascination. Posi- of directors and edited the club’s newsletter. pioneering the taming of these wild cats. tive articles advanced interest in exotic As the ocelot population began to die off, All across the ‘land of the free and the felines. Public opinion about whether any membership declined. The January 1984 home of the brave’ Americans purchased animals besides dogs and cats were suitable cover contained only a blank page since no these tiny furballs ripped from the jungle companions, led to the earliest court chal- photos were submitted. The LIOC newsletter and brought them into their homes to tame lenges and some early victories for LIOC. content was minimal leaving some issues them as family pets. But not all cases had happy endings. And only eight pages. Members wrote letters to In the early 1950s, the Long Island the erosion of our constitutionally guaran- the editor complaining and then didn’t renew. Ocelot Club members didn’t have to deal teed property rights was set in motion as In the mid 1980s the industry publication with city ordinances, state laws, or interna- communities and states began enacting reg- called Animal Finders Guide helped renew tional treaties. None of that existed to curb ulations and laws that prohibit the presence interest in exotic animal husbandry. Buyers human desire. It was just a matter of locat- of ocelots and other exotic cats. and sellers across the country could find each ing a trapper, an importer, or a pet store. At The world was definitely changing. other. Exotic animal auctions sprung up. least, that’s all it took to buy one of these Humanity began to realize that many of the New feline species were bred to replace the exotic kittens. To raise one, well, that was planet’s most treasured species were threat- ocelots, margay, and oncillas of the past. another matter and one that Catherine took ened with extinction. Governments around Americans were buying servals, caracals, very seriously. the world signed the CITES treaty to limit Canada lynx, cougars, tigers, and lions. The first issue of the Long Island Ocelot commercial trade of threatened and endan- In the late 1980s a new president was Club newsletter was just two pages. The gered species. No longer could exotic cats elected. Fred Boyajian envisioned improving

4 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 our conservation image, a plan that excited George was the first representative of the In the LIOC heyday, there were nearly 20 many new to the club. This president over- LIOC to attend the annual Felid Taxon branches and reports were commonly noth- hauled the infrastructure to modernize the Advisory Group annual meetings and ing more then happy accounts of feline organization and proposed a set of by-laws helped to build a bridge of communication enthusiasts getting together to share their that includes assigned duties for term direc- between private sector owners and the cats and their lives. The branch reports cho- tors. But branch representatives and life keepers and managers of AZA zoo feline sen for this anniversary issue reveal the directors resisted many of his new ideas. collections. pressures owners felt two decades ago. His single term bogged down and many The club members made a historic deci- When we are so weary from fighting ani- ideas were thwarted. sion to once again change its name—this mal rights and terrible accidents, it is The 1990s heralded a new cat popula- time to Feline Conservation Federation. important to know that ours is not the first tion. Ocelots were now in the minority, and This constitutional amendment was passed generation to deal with this force. And we 2 bobcats and servals and cougars and lions by a ⁄3 majority vote and became official on will not be the last. Let us celebrate our pas- and tigers dominated the feline census. August 1, 2002. sions and our history. And mourn the loss Exhibiting and photographing large cat There have been so many great contribu- of species found no more. And resolve not cubs led to an explosion in breeding. And in tors over the last 50 years. There are too to lose any more ground in the future and response to that, a new type of exotic cat many great leaders and contributors to men- be the best keepers we can. owner came into existence: the sanctuary tion and this collection is not just a group of For those who blame tiger attacks and owner. As laws were passed and cats were writings from the most famous, rather it is a tiger escapes for the legislative challenges confiscated and pets were discarded the long simmering soup that includes both the facing today’s exotic keeper, it is important large cat sanctuary issue took center stage. meat and potatoes as well as those tiny to look back at history and note that it was Then Conservation and Education direc- spices that make up the rich aroma and the tiny ocelots and margays that started it tor, George Stowers, developed the Basic make the meal whole. all. We must remember that to the close- Wild Feline Husbandry Course in the mid For our 50-year anniversary, we have minded and animal rights mentality: ‘wild 1990s to help educate owners and better assembled a collection of articles, photos, is wild,’ no matter the size and ‘better dead prepare those considering this challenge. snippets, some edited, some not. The goal is then bred in captivity.’ So we must speak The LIOC board officially adopted it, mak- to give us all a history lesson, one that will for our felines who have no voice of their ing it a standard part of each convention help us continue into the future. Stories that own. We must protect, preserve and propa- and offering it at other times during the are unique and those that represent the gate, as we have done for the past 50 years. year. times are each contained within this issue. —Lynn Culver

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5 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 News From Around the Jungle 1957 A recurring gossip and news column found in the earliest of newsletters. Late last summer a Jackson Heights, sin of stealing our hearts and we adore him. Simba was further punished by severe N.Y., member (Mrs. Denise Pierron) His manners seem to improve as he gets scoldings. He now understands that ocelots because she could not take her cat with her older. Many people question that.” that live in Brooklyn, N.Y. are not supposed to France, sold “Sultan” to Mrs. Ann to have access to birds. He has diverted his Eichelman of New Market, Virginia Sultan Captain Kangaroo—NBC-TV kiddie attention to bird watching and fish watch- was then 27 lbs and nearly two years old. program, occasionally needs ocelots as well ing. as other tame animals which are a little out We now hear from Mrs. Eichelman as of the ordinary. If you think your pet will be Mrs. Muriel White of 78-12 - 35th Ave., follows: “Living with Sultan is quite an a good actor, or if you know of anyone who Jackson Heights, N.H. has lost the right to enjoyable experience. He has disrupted our has a suitable pet, please contact Mr. and keep “Se-Ahm” her 28 lb, three year-old home life somewhat. He insists on sleeping Mrs. Douglas Gruber, 12 Robins Crescent, Brazilian ocelot, in a suit brought against with me so my husband, in order to get his New Rochelle. her by the Now York City Department of rest, has moved to another room. Sultan Health. There is a city ordinance that pro- refuses to eat unless I feed him. On Friday, December 14, Jerry Hey- hibits keeping an animal with “vicious “Perfume drives him crazy. He bites any- wood’s adolescent “Simba” found the latch propensities” within the city limits. one who wears it: consequently we have to to the door of Jerry’s parakeet cage not The trial was held December 28 at Long watch him around ladies. With toys he is securely fastened. Simba took full advan- Island City Magistrate’s Court. The city most possessive and cranky. He will not tage of the situation at the expense of two called as a witness a Department of Health permit anyone to touch them except me. He of Jerry’s parakeets. The fact that she has veterinarian who testified that he had han- is terrified of the outdoors and cars: is two large aviaries that house close to fifteen dled three or four ocelots and that when happy only at home. birds doesn’t lessen the wrong in any way. cornered they will attack. Mrs. White’s ”Sultan has committed the unpardonable In addition to having had indigestion, attorney was unable to produce proof to the contrary. The Long Island Ocelot Club provided photographic and printed material and assorted testimony of its members regarding their experience with their ocelots. Mrs. White’s attorney did not find the material WildLife nor the testimony to be useful in her defense. Whole Prey Pet Foods

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6 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Ocelot Born in California 1958 Big news as all cats were wild-born in those days. It happens very rarely, but on December Two California members (Mrs. Jewel Mrs. Kirk is very proud of her ocelots 7, 1957 at 2:00 p.m. in Los Angeles, it did Carr and Mrs. Martha Guffre) who visited and their accomplishment. They were happen. An ocelot kitten was born to Sheba the Kirks and junior, report about him as tractable pets before mating and the (three year old 35 pound female) and Chee- follows: At four days of age the kit mea- experience has not changed the nature of ta (one year old 30 pound male), a pair of sured eight inches long with a two-inch tail, either cat. They were not isolated from happy, well-adjusted ocelots belonging to making a total length of ten inches. His people during mating. Mrs. Kirk esti- Mr. and Mrs. Jack Kirk, and living with eyes were still closed and his ears were so mates gestation to have been 67 days. them at 2007 W. 6th Street, in Los Angeles. tiny it was almost impossible to see them. The parent cats have been treated like chil- His markings were clearly defined. At eight dren since they joined the Kirks at six and days, his eyes started to open, and at nine eight months of age, having their own room days, were open. He weighed 21 ounces at in the Kirk household. They were raised nine days, and 23 ounces when he was together as members of the family. twelve days old.

Saga of Sabu 1958: Steve Kahleroff has been voted a A legal story—even way back then. 1959 honorary member. He is 17. He does not Sabu first came to the attention of the club when he was the have an ocelot, but but his vital interest in central figure in court activity in Washington, D.C. where he ocelots has inspired him to study them. lived with Jim Coan. Not much is known about Sabu’s pere- The drawing reproduced here is his gift to grinations before he became acquainted with Jim who pur- the club. chased him in a Cherrydale, Virginia pet shop in August, 1958. He was then eight months old. Two weeks later the police objected when Jim walked his cat on a leash in public. Sentiment against ocelots in that area is strong after the unfavorable publicity received so long ago by the Beltsville, Finally, a healthy pure meat Maryland ocelot. This cat, incidentally, was subsequently owned by Jim Coan, who found him to be a tractable margay. After considerable verbal struggle with many agencies and treat for cats! irreproachable demonstrations by Sabu, the verdict came that WHOLE FOOD TOPPERS Sabu was a wild animal and therefore could not be walked on From the makers of Oasis Vitamins comes an a leash in the district. Sabu was quite unconcerned and went enrichment treat full of natural nutritionin on living his life and developing deep understanding with his morsels of pure digestible meat protein. partner and protector. But it was not always happy. Jim tells of their experience after the first newspaper item appeared: “A Whole Food Toppers is available in Pure Chicken, lady called me asking permission to come to see Sabu. She Pure Beef, Pure Salmon and Pure Liver. had always wanted to play with the ocelots at the zoo. She All our meat selections are human grade and came and brought him a little gift—a piece of poisoned beef. freeze-driedto lock in freshness. He had to have his stomach pumped and to be fed intravenously. Since his experience he will not accept food from anyone Visit our newwebsite and check out our new look but me. and new products for And Jim tells of happier times: “Sabu makes his toilet in the Stress, Oral Health & Hairballs bathtub on paper. The other evening we were visiting with a Specialized Nutrition friend. After dinner he had to go, but there was no paper in the Formulated by tub. Sabu went to the magazine rack, picked up an issue of DR. GARY PUSILLO Time and trotted off to the tub with it, where he used it for the 1-866-807-7335 purposes he intended. Complete Natural Nutrition Jim and Sabu became inseparable: This little fellow dived www.completenaturalnutrition.com off an eight foot bank into 20 feet of water to swim with me 5% Discount for All FCF, LIOC the other day. He went all the way under and came up swim- Phoenix Exotic Members. ming! He really enjoyed it. He dived in just like an otter. Poor

7 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 little fellow—he swims like a seal, eats like printed below. a horse, behaves better than a dog, acts like “Sabu wrote the final chap- a child—some day when I am sure it will ter of ‘The Saga of Sabu’ last not disillusion him, I’m going to tell him he night. He got caught in the really is an ocelot. tree and hung himself. “He Then came the time when neighbors loved to be outside so when I began to give me trouble about Sabu. He couldn’t take him with me, I bothered no one but the fact that I had him chained him to a stake in the irritated them. Threats kept coming. We had yard. He wasn’t near enough to move, but there wasn’t one place in the to climb the tree, but I failed D.C. area where I could live with ‘that to consider that he would leap notorious cat.’ Then Sabu went to boarding up to low hanging branches. school, or more exactly to a boarding ken- “Last evening we were away High on the list of our pets of 1959 is this 25 nel, where he lived with the owners as a for about two hours. He was pound beauty, shown here after a hard night’s member of the family. still warm when I found him. I work of data gathering and dictating. Eve is our For six months Sabu and Jim dropped just do not know how I am columnist: (Tlalocelotl Tidbits). She is owned— out of contact with the club. Then last going to exist without him. and we use the word unadvisedly—jointly by month a letter came from Nazareth, Penn- Had I not been so thoughtless, Hank Frey and Shaney Brooks, New York, NY. sylvania, bearing the good news that Sabu for I should have known he had given Jim permission to take a wife. could leap into the branches, he would be his death trap. The time he needed me the Sabu is very fond of Joanne who is now alive this morning begging for his break- most was the time I got to him too late. Mrs. Coan. All now live happily in fast. Instead he is in his burial sheet, cold “Now I must go dig his grave. No one can Nazareth, Pennsylvania. and stiff on his pillow. If I hadn’t loved him know how I feel this morning and I can’t Later in the year a sad story appeared so much—if he hadn’t trusted me so express it. How I can ever close my free- about Sabu—he hung himself. much—I know that as he hung there he dom-loving Sabu in a grave, I do not The End of the Saga believed even as he died that I would come know—but it must be done, and I cannot let In tribute to Sabu, a letter from Jim Coan in time to help him, yet I who loved him so someone else do it. I must put him there of Annandale, N. J., whose life he shared, is much chained him there and in so doing set myself.”

Minus Eighteen Claws 1960Anesthesia was very dangerous for exotic cats. About his six-month-old Peruvian intravenously. His only anesthetic was 1 ocelot, K. Maurice Johannessen of Glendo- grain of nembutal (half the normal tolera- ra, California, advises: tion for his weight). I have a high regard for Two weeks ago I took Cezar to the hos- Drs. Field and Darrow of Arcadia, Califor- pital to have his claws removed and at the nia. They did a beautiful job. I took the ban- same time to have him castrated. I sure was dages off his feet two days afterward so worried when he slept for almost four days. they would be off when he awakened. Every two hours my wife and I turned him There was almost no evidence of the opera- from side to side. Each day he had to be fed tion.

Battle of Detroit 1961 Some legal battles were won. 1960: Mari is truly a miniature The ‘battle of Detroit’ has been won. gan members were alerted to Edith’s plight, mystery. Her weight is about This action first came to the attention of the material was supplied which it was hoped four and a half pounds. Two vet- club when a telephone call was received at would prove that ocelots are pets. Prepara- erinarians have estimated her headquarters from Miss Edith McNeal, tions were made to defend Edith’s right to age at over five months. One Lathrup Village, Michigan. Edith had keep her ten-month-old ocelot. Fifty Michi- suspected she might be consid- received a summons to appear at night gan ocelot owners appeared in court. One erably older, basing his conclu- court in Detroit on October 24 because she ocelot owner from Washington, Mich. sion on the accumulation of tar- “harbors an animal that is not a common brought her cat, Apollo, into court, too. On tar on her well developed teeth. household pet, to wit, one ocelot.” Michi- October 26, the Detroit News carried the Mari is shown with her owner, story with picture: “Ocelot off the Spot— Dr. Thomas Griffith. 8 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006

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9 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Wins Court Battle. “This victory came about on a technicality. (The officer who’d issued the summons stated: “I saw a large cat through the window, but it could have been one of Miss McNeal’s house cats.”) Edith’s attorney moved that the case be dis- missed, which motion was granted. I want to remind everyone that we are not out of the woods here on the Edith McNeal and Wendy thing. We have only won a delay. People in Lathrup Village believe Wendy is an undesirable pet and it’s hard to teach them what they don’t want to believe. Edith McNeal wants to say “thank you” to LIOC. “Truly the people you sent to me helped me win my case.” 1961: Ocelot, Pepper, tries to plant a kiss on Elise Denning of Hayward, California. Mixed Emotions This column by Jayne Murray was a close association with man, training, con- dogs have turned on their masters, bitten regular feature in the 1960s. trolled breeding and cross-breeding where it children, or have been strictly “one-man” They Can’t be Both was desired, we have our present day dogs. dogs. Even so, license tags can be obtained There have been many instances where and the dogs kept as pets. If such dogs are Are pet ocelots wild or domesticated? Owners will say domesticated, others will usually say wild. The dictionary, an impar- tial, technical, and authoritative source, gives the following definitions: Domestic: EXOTIC ANIMAL Living with man; tame, as domestic animals. Domesticate: To convert to domestic LIABILITY INSURANCE uses; tame; to attach to home life or affairs; Zoological Animals to cause to be or feel at home; naturalize. “Alligators to Zebras” Wild: Living in a state of nature; as animals that have not been tamed or domesticated, of unrestrained violence, fury, untamed, savage, unrestrained. Mitchel Kalmanson Domestic or domesticated animals seem to be the ones everyone has been used to seeing all their lives. For centuries man has Insurance Counselor used certain animals for his own pleasure or • Animal Mortality advantage. These are the accepted domesti- Claim / Loss Evaluation(s) cated animals. Others are considered wild. If the origin of any of the generally • Consultation Services(s) accepted domesticated animals were to be • Rare & Unusual Risk(s) traced, it would be found that they all origi- • Domestic and / or Exotic Animal(s) Considered nated from a wild state. Horses, for exam- • Individual and / or Commercially Owned Animal(s) ple, still run in wild herds in some of our western states. They are wild in every sense of the word, yet after a few months of train- LESTER KALMANSON AGENCY, INC. ing, anyone being asked would say they are P.O. Box 940008 domesticated. If horses of this nature can be considered domesticated, then why not a Maitland, Fl 32794-0008 U.S.A. pet ocelot, which is acquired as a kitten, Telephone (407) 645-5000 - Fax (407) 645-2810 tamed and trained easily, and lives in the home without caging? Website: www.lkalmanson.com Were the original dog to be seen today, it would not be recognized as such. Through 10 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 considered domesticated, then why not pet these cats is a great deal “wilder” than a ing in the state of nature and has been ocelots? two-month-old ocelot. If the kittens of tamed. He cannot be both wild and domes- The definition of “wild cat” includes this either feline are brought into contact with ticated. He has originated from the wild, but very interesting bit of information: “A people they will tame very quickly and eas- once tamed and attached to home life he North African specie, Felis Libyca, proba- ily. The kittens of the once domesticated becomes as much a domesticated animal as bly the main source of the domestic cat.” cat, when tamed would be considered any common cat, dog, or horse. Are domes- Here again is a familiar animal, now con- domestic. ticated horses, dogs, or cats so different sidered domesticated, originating from the Where then, is the fine line drawn that from the pet ocelot, margay, or cheetah that wild. Each year there are many cats that separates the ocelot from other cats in the term “domestic” or “domesticated” leave their homes to live in the woods, determining domesticity? Surely the defini- should apply to one and not the other? these are considered wild. Their kittens are tion for “wild” given in the dictionary does Are they domesticated or are they wild? wild. A two-month-old kitten born to one of not apply to the pet ocelot for he is not liv- They can’t be both!

Ocelot Ruled “Customary Pet” in Miami Back in 1961 there was some movement to normalize exotic cats as regular housepets. Olivia Sheppard phoned club headquar- but in other parts of the country. keep Billie and her dog. He ruled against ters on August 4 to report that her fight to The action started on the complaint of a the foxes and some others as “nuisances” in keep her pet ocelot in Dade County had neighbor against Olivia’s pets: foxes, her Olivia’s populated neighborhood, and ruled ended in victory. This victory may do much ocelot, Billie, her German shepherd, and for the ocelot and dog as “customary pets.” to establish a precedent useful in future others. After two days in court, Metro The Miami Herald and the Miami News actions not only in other parts of Florida, Judge Frederick Barrad ruled that she could carried stories on August 4.

Communique from Carlotta 1962 A fanciful essay where Catherine Cisin’s ocelot pens the news.

Well, Catherine and Harry took off on my run to my kennel. (I am always anxious “Billie and the Hose” to all who will listen April 17 for their Florida trip without me. I to go in the other direction.) gets monotonous. For those of you who had been really sick, so probably they did My immediate neighbor and erstwhile haven’t heard: Ollie hoses Billie down after the right thing in taking Dr. Duberman’s friend (we had some lengthy “over the he’s been put in his outdoor cage. She waits advice to leave me home. However, I fence” discussions) was Sher-Khan, an until then so he won’t dismantle the hose. noticed they hurried back, which makes me ocelot whose permanent home is right there He enjoys it almost as much as anything. suspect I was less concerned over the sepa- in Southampton. We had identical quarters, He pushes his face against the stream of ration than they were. After all, it was our although she has much more freedom and water. Billie has two companions, both full first such experience in seven years so I can visiting privileges than I did. grown margays, which are about as big as understand their anxiety. On the other hand, What happened to my people during my his legs. The margays are somewhat less anxiety need not have been a factor since vacation, I can only report from what I friendly than Billie. They do not play with they left me for a two-day trial at my tem- overheard. They visited with Safari (Free- him. porary home with Dr. Dan Duberman in man) in Crystal River, Fla. I understand that Catherine was heard to observe: (I’ll try Southampton, before they left me. little margay was within a whisker of kiss- to report this accurately) “Boarding my My quarters were comfortable and inter- ing Catherine. They esting. My bed, food and toilet (I didn’t visited Olivia Shep- always use the latter -HA!) were in my six pard and her animals foot square kennel, with doors opening on in Miami. I will never either side, one to admit my attendants and hear the end of Billie, caterers, and the other to give me access to the 75-pound ocelot my 20-foot fenced-in “run.” who nearly knocked I spent sunny days in the “run” and those Catherine over trying times when my “house” was being ser- to say “hello.” All viced. Incidentally, I am in possession of a right, he is big, he is “trade secret” as Dr. Dan described the pro- beautiful, he is won- cedure. He taunts Catherine by not disclos- derful. I’m not jeal- ing it to her, but I know and one day maybe ous (much), but hear- I will tell her. It involves moving me from ing Catherine relate Oft-published picture of Catherine kissing Carlotta

11 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006

12 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 ocelot seems not to have had the question- carrier baited with my favorite fresh green thing I remember was the familiar motion able effect I had expected. The animal grass. Of course I was too smart to “walk of my car and a little later the familiar seems to suffer less than the owner. When in.” I scratched, I hissed, I retreated. sights, sounds, and scents of home. comfortable and well fed, she accepts her Then—the unexpected—they left me for Soon I felt as though I had never left circumstances stoically. She finds company another day. home except that now I was three weeks in the sounds and scents of other animals. The next day something happened. I older and wiser. There was a new item But the owner, while the pet is comfortably strongly suspect those choice bite-size added to my toy bin—a bull whip—which I confined, discovers a in myriad of areas in scarce pieces of beef heart Danny Duber- find is “lots of fun provided someone will his fertile imagination where mishaps, dis- man gave me for my long-delayed lunch, a play with me at the other end of the whip. content, and loneliness abound.” few hours before Catherine and Harry came But do you know it was another month I had the last word, however, or nearly back for me, were “loaded.” I was definite- before the clinging veterinarian odor com- so. When Catherine and Harry came to take ly not master, even of myself. So when pletely left me. me home, I let them know this was not to Catherine offered me my favorite (she calls Constantly yours, be in accordance with their plans. They it decrepit and fragrant) carrier, I “poured Carlotta Cisin, Amagansett, N. Y. offered me a huge strange black walk-in myself in” just as I always do. The next

Top Cat 1963 A cheetah among the easterners “A month ago (in October) I finally got Chita: Another cheetah my cheetah!” writes JoAnne Zimmerman Mr. William B. Engler, PO Box 52, San of Dallastown, Penna. “She is eight months Fernando, California, who shares Chita’s old, 45 pounds and close to five feet. I have life, says of her: “Chita has been most already taught her to come to me, sit, and patient and understanding in teaching me shake hands. She is very jealous of Dandy the wisdom of her kind. It would be my loss Lion (puma) so I have to keep them sepa- to exchange this knowledge and under- rated. Poor Dandy has to take a slight back standing for all the knowledge of seat, but Top Cat hates being caged. She humankind. Since she has come to live with has the run of the house. She is really me, my life has changed from the drab, spoiled but she is a wonderful pet and we frustrated existence of the human to the An illustration by Dr. Mike Balbo is all love her.” refreshing life of a child of nature. It is published in the newsletter for the Top Cat shares the Zimmerman hospital- axiomatic that love is the best thing in life first time. For decades Dr. Balbo ity with a pair of pumas: Dandy Lion, two and I have that which is unadulterated, was a prolific source, his drawings year old, 110 pound girl and Little Lion, moving, and certain.” Chita is nine years reflecting art, physiology, and one year old, 125 pound male.) old. She weighs ninety pounds. humor.

Carlotta’s Last Day on Earth 1964 A requiem for the ocelot which started it all

Today, September 23, 1964, is the first some grass, lay in the sun for a while and while there we stopped in and told Dan anniversary of Carlotta’s death. She had used her potty. Duberman, her veterinarian, that she need- been with us eight and a half years. Because While Harry and I were having lunch, ed help. questions have arisen that indicate the true she began vomiting, first tiny bits of undi- When we came home she was lying on facts are not known, I relate the painful gested chicken head and some grass. Even- her side on the floor, not noticing us as we events of Carlotta’s last day on earth. tually there was just foam. This vomiting passed her or talked to her. We called Dan The morning of Tuesday, September 23, was not the usual sort, but rather something and asked him to come over at once. He 1963, every thing was usual. We had over which she apparently had no control— did, arriving at 7:00 p.m. In the meantime I known that Carlotta was ill for some time— not something voluntary. Her tongue kept took her temperature. It was 101.3°F—not perhaps six months—but no diagnosis had running in and out before each spasm. She alarming, but it could have been on the way been made other than uterine infection. Car- made several slow trips from her bed to her down. She trotted after me when I went to lotta got up, told me she was hungry, went potty, trying unsuccessfully to defecate. We get the thermometer. I carried her back to out on her porch, ate a chicken head and had an appointment in Southampton and the kitchen where she was to die half an

13 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 hour later. I put her on her side near her drinking dish, but she made no attempt either to drink or to move away. When Dan arrived I carried her to the porch to her table where, while I held her head and Harry held her hind feet, Dan pro- ceeded to administer injections of antibiotics and liver-iron compound. Then we brought her back into the kitchen where Dan listened to her heart making the remark that her heartbeat was “very shallow.” He abandoned the stethoscope and laid his ear against her side. He said: “In extremis, I’d inject adrenaline into her heart muscle. This is extremis. “In the meantime Dan had begun heart mas- sage. I took over while he loaded his syringe. His needle stuck there in her chest gently swaying from side to side with her feeble heartbeat. He commented that it should be hopping violently around. 1964: This beautiful jaguar is something more than a pet according A short while later, at 7:30, her head to K. Maurice Johannessen of Redding, California, who shares his pulled back and she sucked in two little short life. “Somewhere along the line we changed roles. It is no longer a breaths and then there was nothing more. question of whether his position pleases me but rather if mine The last I saw of her that night, Harry was pleases him.” carrying her limp figure out the front door to Dan’s car. Her head hung over Harry’s right elbow and her tail over his left. That night Dr. Dan Duberman did the necropsy, which was, reported in the November 1963 newsletter. To review: the ZOO QUALITY cause of Carlotta’s death was septicemia, which had been brought about by the presence of long duration, of peritonitis. Peri- tonitis: “Inflammation of the peritoneum (serous membrane lining the abdominal cav- SINCE 1972 ity and investing its viscera.)” Septicemia: “Invasion and persistence of pathogenic (disease producing) bacteria in the blood stream.” FLEXI-NETS™ Fiasco in the Commonwealth FurMont™ Reptile Hooks Exotic pet owners often did not find justice but the cats often found death FIELDCAM™ VIDEO SYSTEMS By Catherine Cisin In Arlington, Virginia, Mrs. Raymond EDUCATIONAL–INTERACTIVE–SCIENTIFIC Batisse was charged with violation of a state statue that prohibits the importation of predatory animals without a permit from the state game commission. She appealed to me as founder of the Long Island Ocelot WEB SITE: www.fieldcam.com email [email protected] Club to help her at her trial on October 22, MEMBER: AZA, AFS, TWS, WMI, SSAR, SR, AOU, ASIH, DTC, ABS 1963 by testifying as to the distinction TECHNOLOGY AND TOOLS FOR THE 21ST CENTURY between pet and predatory animals, specifically ocelots. Her two ocelots had been impounded. The day before the trial her female, Eliza- 14 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 beth, died. No necropsy was performed. called separately to testify. I was the last thus far to establish the position of a pet The male, Sabu, on the day of the trial had witness. ocelot as such in the Commonwealth of begun to show signs of dehydration and Most of us assumed that I had satisfacto- Virginia, I do not feel that our effort in trav- approaching agony. Attempts by the rily testified that our pets fail to meet the eling 800 miles has been wasted. I feel our defense attorney after the trial to secure cus- requirements of the definition of “predato- sincerity gives a dignity and at least a tody from “the commonwealth” of the sur- ry.” Both the defense attorney and the dis- potential strength to recognition of the viving ocelot, for removal from Virginia, trict attorney had “summed up.” The judge existing relationship between man and pet were unsuccessful. began making his decision, reciting aloud ocelots in Virginia as well as in other parts The trial, one of the last cases heard that the facts on which he was basing it. It of the civilized world. day, was held in criminal court without ben- became obvious to me when he began read- Even while the trial was in progress. efit of jury. Details of the trial cannot be ing phrases and sentences out of context Sabu, the remaining impounded ocelot had reported here since “the commonwealth” from my book, Pet Ocelot, that his decision begun to die. By the evening of October 22 chose to exclude from the courtroom all would favor “the commonwealth.” he was dead. Necropsy was to have been witnesses who had been sworn in. Five wit- Mrs. Batisse will appeal his decision. performed. Ignorance of the laws (of nesses for the defense and one for “the Her next trial will be in a higher court in nature) being no excuse, we find the Com- commonwealth” comprised the group. We December. monwealth of Virginia directly responsible waited, literally under guard, until we were In spite of apparent failure in this case for the deaths of two blameless pet ocelots.

News From Around the Jungle 1965 Some more from the gossip column George Schwarz, Brooklyn, N. Y. mem- Ann Jacobson, Seattle, Washington ber, reports about his heroine, small mar- member, has made a discovery: “I have gay, Plato: “We had a little trouble the day some rather interesting news to report. after Thanksgiving when our house was Wallace, our Indian jungle cat is an broken into. They cleaned us out of all jew- impostor. He is actually a fishing cat, elry, appliances, clothes, liquor, and left the felis viverrina. He was sold to us as the house a wreck. However, the only bright former and also identified as same by side of the story is that they made the mis- the Seattle Zoo, where they have an take of entering Plato’s room and either older cat (not on display.) We were in tried to grab her or hit her and nothing was touch with the Portland Zoo and they touched in her room where we keep many have two cats of the same species, things in bureaus and closets. We found a which they call fishing cats. From the bloody napkin on the floor and her door literature available to me, I am now was the only one shut when we arrived sure that is, indeed, what he is. Inciden- home that night.” tally, in a Tacoma pet shop there is a real Indian jungle cat for sale.”

Why Did You Join LIOC? 1965: Zamba with Pamela Franklin of 1966 Getting along has always been an issue with LIOC. It seems London, England, co-stars in 20th Cen- the larger it grew, the more diverse the membership and its tury-Fox Cinemascope production, The personalities, and that created more distracting social issues Lion. Ralph Heifer wrote a book pub- of the business of the organization and officers. That led lished in 2005 entitled, Zamba: The True eventually to the groups splitting into smaller units that could Story of the Greatest Lion That Ever get along. It seems as if this is a constant in our history and Lived this editorial is as timely for the FCF in this century as it was back in 1966.

In reading over the latest few newsletters as being, “to establish a working under- be an exchange of ideas, information and I have noticed something occurring that is standing between humans and their pet experiences enabling members to be better quite disturbing. It appears that some sec- ocelots; to bring together, either by personal informed about their pets; to keep members tions of LIOC are heading away from the contact or through correspondence, people informed of new developments in the field original purpose of the club. It might be who share a common interest in ocelots, of medicine or other data pertinent to the wise now to review this goal. This is stated margays, or allied felines, that there might world of ocelots; to answer questions

15 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006

16 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006

regarding ocelots from owners or prospec- mean the life of their pet. would get more attention and much more tive owners, regardless of whether the What might be done to cure this situa- enjoyment could be had from the meetings. request comes from a member or a non- tion? The solution, of course, must ulti- The only other solution that occurs to me member, and to give assistance in locating mately come from the sections themselves. outside of complete disbanding is to split an ocelot.” However, some suggestions might be in into groups. Each group would naturally be I believe it is safe now to change the order. For the sections to continue as they composed of those members that get along word “ocelot” in the quotation to “exotic” are now will require stern self-control on with one another. This would be an unfortu- due to the varied pet types now in the club. the part of all its members. They must not nate solution, however in that I am sure as It seems that this goal has become sec- allow themselves to argue about the club the group splits, so splits its efficiency and ondary to the running of the section, itself. itself, but rather to think only in terms of enjoyment. It is much easier to find a solu- The internal government of the section has their pets They might possibly have one tion to a problem among many people than assumed the position of primary impor- election now and then stick by their officers among a few. tance. Who is president? Who is treasurer? until the next annual election. If they cannot No doubt there are other possibilities And most important, do we like them? do this, they might try running the club than the above and no matter what solutions Questions like these are fast becoming without officers and have regular meetings are possible, it is most important to do paramount. I cannot understand why these at the homes of volunteers. This of course something to correct the situation—not to personality clashes exist at all. There is no does not allow the section to have a treasury let it drag on until there is no more section. place for them here. Petty jealousies and since there would not be a treasurer. With- —Robert Peraner ego ambitions should be left at home. Since out club business to discuss, the exotics President pro-tem 1973 at meetings time is at a premium, we should devote as much of it as possible toward the solution of problems concerning our exotics and to the enjoyment we receive from discussing them. At the November meeting in New York, Catherine Cisin explained the “government” of the main chapter of LIOC. It is simply this. There are no elected officers. As things come up that need to be done, volunteers either are called for or come forward if they discover a job that will contribute to the effort. This was, in fact, the way in which LIOC first began. Catherine had an ocelot and needed help. She found two other owners. From there she volun- teered herself as the originator of LIOC and to date has been unselfishly doing the ever- increasing amount of work necessary. The other “officers” are also volunteers. I do not mean to imply that sections should run without elected officers. It is fine to have elections and have officers when this system proves to be working. If it does not work and if there seems no hope that it will work in the future, then something must be done before the section disinte- grates. No members are going to enjoy going to meetings and belonging to a club in which there is strife. As a result of this the exotics are sure to suffer. The members 1966: Winner of LIOC’s very first Lotty award is membership sec- who decide not to go to meetings, or when retary Gene Brill from Kenmore, New York. That’s Cleopatra con- a section finally disbands, they will lose out gratulating her. Lotty, the annual award for outstanding service on the very information that might possibly to LIOC and to the felines who inspire us all, was created by sculptress Brenda Duprey of Lennox, Mass.

17 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 But There is Always More to Learn 1967 We don’t always understand our cats’ behaviors By Catherine Cisin morning performance with the coffee pot, We become quite complacent in the fel- which had been left, as usual in the kitchen lowship we enjoy with our exotics. We sink with the remnants of the last making think we understand them completely. They still in the pot. Tercera rolled back and forth are “good” cats. They conduct themselves on the sink, apparently intoxicated by the with impeccable demeanor. They eat on aroma of steaming coffee grounds. When schedule in the proper places. They respect she was finished, she insisted on refusing to their toilet sites. They tolerate our affection- obey the suggestions (commands are not ate advances—when they are in the mood. used in our house since we discovered Ter- But there comes a time every now and cera is more amenable to suggestions), we then when our complacence is a bit shat- made to her, interested only in scenting the tered. We are suddenly faced with unusual places where I had walked. Finally we dis- actions in our cats, which we interpret as covered, scenting them ourselves, that I had deviation from their perfect behavior. We stepped in the excrement of a visiting try to interject our “corrections” usually at canine who had donated to our lawn fertil- 1967 Lotty winner, Bill Engler. Bill’s inopportune times and they fall unheeded ization program. When the offending scent extra-LIOC activities throughout by the pre-occupied pussycat. was removed, the cat accepted our sugges- recent months have included I became aware on two recent occasions tion that she go to bed. active objection to restrictive legis- that my interpretations of Tercera’s mes- The other instance, of greater importance lation on pet felines. Bill has also sages were something short of understand- for its impending potential disaster, was done much movie work. He’s ing. She is a model ocelot, if shy of Tercera’s insistence that she disarrange kin- behind many of the feline scenes strangers, affectionate with us and “good” dling I had put in the fireplace, eventually so widely admired on TV. in her daily routines. She had finished her to be burned. It was at about the moment

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18 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 when we despaired of disinteresting her in tic. Fifteen minutes later the grass and fumble too long through our complex rea- the kindling when I discovered she had pieces of garbage bag, were dutifully pro- soning before we are able to interpret it. chewed the top off of a plastic garbage bag. duced. It was only then we realized that her The result of our blindness is most often The missing pieces were obviously inside interest in the kindling was actually interest failure to communicate and, in the extreme Tercera. The first thing that occurred to me in pieces of grass which she found clinging case, disaster. in the emergency of discovery was to pro- to it. Our cats are intelligent. They are logical. vide her with as much grass as she would We know there is tremendous logic in Shall we try to emulate them? consume, hoping she would vomit the plas- every action of our cats but too often we An Intimate Account of the Birth of a Margay 1968 As husbandry improved, so did the frequency of births By Sadie Douglas, New Smyrna Beach, of my days and nights in the closet. My any help he could. The formula works, it Florida presence seemed to calm her. really agrees with the kitten. We call this lit- The mother is “Princess Hatfield Dou- Three weeks before she gave birth, my tle margay “Lucky” because he is lucky to glas, age 5 years, weight 11 pounds. The husband had to move out of our bedroom. be alive and well. Born: Thursday, April 11, 1 father is “Pacer” Douglas, age 2 ⁄2 years, As soon as night came, Princess would 1968. Time: 2:30 a.m. Weight: Approxi- weight 8 pounds. snarl and spit if Charles even walked in the mately six ounces (no way to weigh him 1 We adopted Princess from Ken and Jean bedroom door. Twice she bit him. He final- accurately.) Body Length: 6 ⁄2 inches. Tail 1 Hatfield in November 1967. Jean is secre- ly decided it was best to sleep elsewhere. length: 3 ⁄2 inches. The formula: 1 can pet tary of the Florida Chapter of LIOC. We Princess really started eating: six chicken milk, 2 cans water, 1 egg yolk, 3 table- 1 received Pacer in October 1967 through the necks, one can of cat food, and nearly a spoons limewater, ⁄2 to 1 cc every hour. At 1 help of Dave and Sue Salisbury of Cocoa. quart of milk a day. On Wednesday, April one week Lucky took ⁄2 oz. every 2-3 hours. 1 3 Dave is, of course, president of the Florida 10, Princess stayed in the closet without At two weeks, ⁄2 to ⁄4 oz. every 3 hours. At chapter of LIOC. eating. Contractions started at 9:30 p.m. 16 days his eyes opened. They were dark Princess and Pacer got along well togeth- Water broke at 10:40 p.m. She passed blue. We weighed him then: 10 ounces and er from the moment we brought Princess approximately a half cup, light pink in he measured 12 inches overall. home. It seemed as though they were meant color. She passed small amounts of blood I started Lucky on baby pabulum at three for each other. We leave them together con- before and after her water broke. There weeks old, gave him baby food at four stantly. were no more contractions. At 11:00 P. M. weeks. He sure is growing. Today, May 23, 1 Six weeks before the imminent birth, there was slight dilation. 11:15 p.m., con- his weight at six weeks is 22 oz. He eats ⁄2 Princess awoke me, pulling on my arm. She tractions four minutes apart. 2:30 A.M., jar baby food mixed with his formula every 1 would take my wrist in her mouth and back contractions constant and hard. No notice- day. This equals out to 2 ⁄2 oz. every four off of the bed until she could pull me in the able dilation. hours. When Lucky was four weeks old, he closet. With my arm still in her mouth, she Princess couldn’t seem to stand and I cut all his teeth. He loves to play. We are started pacing the length of the closet. (Lost realized she was unable to dilate enough to very proud of him. Incidentally, we are a lot of skin off my hand!) After thirty min- pass the kitten. To force dilation I applied almost sure Princess is again pregnant. utes she stopped, laid down, and panted pressure on each side of the opening away very hard, like a dog that has been running from the center for nearly 45 minutes. The hard. We called our veterinarian. He said it kitten’s head soon emerged and I gently wasn’t time for the kitten; she might be in pulled its shoulders through, removed my false labor. She was. This happened at three hands so Princess could take over. She different times. For six weeks I spent most snarled, spit, turned and went for its throat. She stepped on it twice before I could pick Ocelots No it up. I cut the cord, held it approximately 15 seconds at the same time trying to keep Longer Qualify Princess back with my right arm. I handed Charles the kitten to clean and dry. The afterbirth came about twenty minutes later. 1968: “While in Washington,” advises I destroyed this, cleaned Princess and Mr. Paul W. Moran, “we eagerly sought changed all the bedding in the closet. ocelots at the 3,000-animal National We offered the kitten to Princess four Zoo, but found they are no longer times. Each time she tried to kill it. So we exhibited there because they are now knew we would have to hand raise it. This classified as ‘semi-domestic’ animals. Dr. Mike Balbo, 1968 Lotty winner is difficult, but proved well worth it. Ocelot owners have ‘arrived’, apparent- with his eight year old ocelot, Bru- We called Mr. Bill Engler in Panama ly. tus, his model and inspiration. City. He gave us a formula and offered us 19 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006

20 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Marbled Cat 1969 Robert Baudy imported, bred, and created the foundation stock of many species in zoo collections. Sadly, AZA zoos have forgotten the effort private owners have invested into conserving genetic lines in the US. One of the most fascinating feline and slender and the back is slightly arched, know that our chance of saving them is species in the world, from the point of view while the richly furred, very long tail is about 50/50 but we keep trying desperately of mystery, beauty, and rarity is certainly carefully kept either upturned at the end or to better the ratio. The news of a marbled the almost unknown creature commonly curled around, seemingly to avoid at all cat’s arrival always generates excitement at called the marbled cat or felis marmorata. times any possible damage to this gorgeous the compound. The species, for some unex- Three races of this genus have been defined appendage. In a reclining position the tail is plained reason, seems to be extremely rare previously, but since the six specimens we curled beside the animal or completely anywhere across its enormous native range. have obtained during the past four years wrapped around him. The fact that the feet According to reports from our various con- were completely different in background are large in comparison with an ocelot or tacts and collectors in Asia, it is by far the coloration, markings and texture of the fur, domestic cat is probably responsible for the most rare and most secretive feline in its I feel safe in stating that the identification of assertion made by some zoologists years natural haunts. The current captive popula- felis marmorata subspecies certainly ago that the marbled cat is completely arbo- tion of this mysterious cat, among all the deserve further and more extensive work. real. In captivity at our place, however, zoos of the world, according to the highly Evidently versatile and highly adaptable, most of the specimens received did not reliable British International Zoo Year Book the species ranges from the high and snowy seem to be over anxious to reach the top (1968 Edition) is composed of one male forests of Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan where it part of the oak limb which we placed in the and three females. overlaps the habitat of another prestigious 15' by 8' wire enclosure. Instead, and after We furnished three other animals to pri- star of the feline family, the unique snow several months in the same cage, most ani- vate collections. May 3, 1967, we received leopard (panthera uncia) down through mals ignored the high limb for lower, more from one of our contacts in Malaysia, a let- Burma, Assam, Laos, North, and South comfortable plank shelves. After becoming ter stating: “Marbled cats are extremely rare Viet Nam, Cambodia, Thailand, all the way familiar with our setup, most of them would and up to the present I have been unable to south to the hot and humid rain forest of the leave the little connected wood house at 5 meet outstanding orders for this species, Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo. p.m. and remain outdoors until about 7 a.m. even though I collect and trap in coordina- The six marbled cats received at our next morning. tion with jungle dwellers in the foothills of compound were probably in the one to two Often badly undernourished, always their main range.” year range. The mean body and head mea- heavily infested with intestinal parasites The Los Angeles and Cincinnati Zoos surement was twenty inches. In every case and under the stress of an air trip half way are the only zoological collections in the the tail was slightly longer than the head- around the world, the poor animals usually Americas currently exhibiting the species body measurement by one half to one full make a very sad appearance on arrival. We with one single female in each collection. inch. The head was relatively small, Absolutely nothing is known of the with very large and beautiful eyes and marbled cat’s behavior and habits in small rounded ears. The texture of the the wild. Here in Center Hill, Char- fur is extremely soft and rich. The lotte (Mrs. Baudy) has successfully markings, which are somewhat remi- conditioned these cats on a basic diet niscent of the clouded leopard’s but of fresh chicken muscle meat, milk more blurred, are never similar in size and eggs. Curiously enough, live rats and shape on different specimens. The and mice were refused in most irregular, large, dark brown or black instances. The species has been blotches are edged on one side only described earlier as practically untam- with a lighter shade of brown than the able. Charlotte succeeded fairly rapid- general background which varies from ly with the only specimen with which a dull olive gray to russet brown she experimented (a young adult according to individual differences. female which was later sent to the Lower part of front legs and hindquar- Cincinnati Zoo.) She obtained the ters are spotted on a lighter back- complete disappearance of flight reac- ground than the rest of the body. The tion, and happy acceptance of head striking feature of this species, how- 1969: Delightfully docile ocelot owned by Mr. and petting by hand. Since this specimen ever, does not rest with its peculiar Mrs. Rollin Anderson of San Francisco, Califor- was, like all other marbled cats markings, no matter how surprising nia. She was born in Australia in October, 1962. received here, wild caught and raised they may appear to be, but in the Her theatrical endeavors are indicated in the by the mother, it would seem that the unforgettable stance of the animal in above photo taken during her working hours in species’ bad reputation has been motion. Cleopatra. The other actress is Audrey Hamilton. somewhat hastily established. The hind legs are extremely long 21 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Gray Area of Semi-Compliance: A Guest Editorial 1970 The emergence of draconian laws could have threatened the existence of LIOC itself By Donald E. Wagner ger of doom or a fear monger but I feel that My main reason for writing at this time too little attention has been paid to this form is to point out what seems to be an error in of legislation. I only ask that they consider the last newsletter. On Page 7 of the Janu- the alternatives to what could come to pass ary-February issue, Public Law #91-121, under the new law. passing both houses and signed 21 Novem- There is every reason to assume that ber, 1968 is referred to as the Endangered many exotics will be listed, especially some Species Act. This interesting bit of informa- of the larger felines. The ocelot is consid- tion is what editors usually refer to as a big ered still indigenous to the State of Texas boo-boo. The 91st Congress did pass a bill but very definitely is endangered there. that eventually did receive presidential sig- Since the new law deals not only with nature on 20 November, 1969, not 1968, worldwide extinction but also locally that did become Public Law #121, but if a declining populations at the sub-species copy is requested from the Government level, there is little reason to assume that Printing Office, one will receive a long and this complicated and intricate law will not dreary authorization for military appropria- cover some races of felis pardalis. tions and the only endangered species men- In fact the parent LIOC may fall into the tioned in it is the fairly prolific American gray area of group semi-compliance, unless taxpayer. we state clearly our purposes to the Secre- 1970: William Engler with this Both houses have had active legislation tary of Interior as soon as possible. Consid- cougar, Versigetorix, relax in their going on endangered species for some time er for instance that even animal gardens and new Springdale, Utah home and being sympathetic with the general zoos will be disallowed possession of some idea, I’ve pitched a little wood on the fire sub-species without special authorization or purposes of welfare and active, properly from time to time. Both congressmen from proof of performance in the areas of regen- supervised breeding or repopulation/domes- my area are personal acquaintances, one a eration or repopulation. Possession of a live tication programs to the Secretary of Interi- high school contemporary, and I’ve tried to animal by a private owner may be very dif- or’s office without undue delay. This may do what I could to encourage enactment. ficult to justify and prior ownership may not secure us any special favors but it may, Over the years passage has seemed immi- also be disallowed. In any event I feel that at least, keep us from being declared out- nent but has failed for one reason or anoth- the LIOC staff should state the fundamental laws. er. Success was realized finally, in Decem- ber of 1969. House Bill #HR-11363 Endan- gered Species, and Senate Bill #S-13969 Prohibited Importation, merged to become public law (PL) #135 and was signed into federal law by President Nixon on 5 December 1969. The actual list of endangered species will be compiled by our Sec- retary of Interior and is to be a matter of public record by the middle of 1970, no later than June/July of 1971. Some members of LIOC might feel that I’m a harbin-

22 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Shawnee 1971 1965 to June 1970: The death of a Jaguarundi I hardly know where to begin to tell, pushing her wet nose tight to my face, wait- out of nowhere and land feet first in my think or write about my beloved jaguarundi. ing patiently for a kiss on the head some- midsection, which was always fun—for her. My thoughts are totally and completely times in an exuberance of affection she I have never had an animal that I loved jumbled with memories of her. I can’t would jump on me and hold me around my like I loved her. The wound left from her adjust to her not being here when I come ankle, kicking me for good measure, before death will never scar over. She died of a home from work. I listen for her whistle bounding away out of reach. She loved to horrible unexpected cause—cirrhosis of the that welcomed me or begged or expressed retrieve toys and would sit twitching the liver. The bitterest pill to swallow is that I pleasure. Oh, so many things are gone. very end of her tail, eyes all bright, waiting believe that if a proper diagnosis and treat- From an obscure beginning and for two for me to toss a toy. ment had been made by the first vet I took years of her life, she lived with an unknown She never showed affection for me her to, she may have had a better chance. person and from the scars on her back all around anyone else. She was aloof and After a week of unsuccessful treatment, I covered with little white hairs standing out prim. She had her favorite room in the went to another vet who diagnosed her so sharply against her otherwise brownish house and would hiss and growl at anyone trouble properly, but all we did for her red coat, I suspect she spent much of her who dared enter her domain. When out of failed. Shawnee never exhibited pain or too time pacing back and forth in too small a her house and on a leash, she marched past much discomfort until the very end. cage. people as though they did not exist. Anyone She began to breathe shallow and rapid At approximately two years of age she could pet her when she was away from breaths and did not wish to be left alone for was given to me by a friend. We came to home. Shawnee simply ignored them. She a moment. She lay on the bed wrapped in know and understand each other immedi- never liked being carried around except in towels to keep her warm as her body tem- ately. She became a sleek and shiny 16 strange surroundings, then she would bury perature dropped. By this time she was little pounds of happy bouncing cat with good her face under my chin and peek out once more than skin and bones, so small and food and vitamins in no time. She never in a while. helpless. She lay next to me and I watched had a health problem. Her favorite time was when she had me her like that for two hours, when all of a Shawnee gave me her complete and all to herself away from all the other cats. sudden she raised up on her poor, shaky undivided love and trust and no matter what Into the bed she flopped like a rag, tight up legs, looked me in the eye and leaned her I did to her, I could do no wrong. She to me or she would put her chin on the bed head on me as if to say: “Can’t you do blamed anything I did to upset her on some- and come, otter style, sliding from my feet something?” one else or inanimate objects. Whenever to my head and push her face into mine, I couldn’t watch any longer so I called she said “hello” it was always by butting purring for all she was worth. Sometimes the vet out of bed and he met me at his her head into me, usually my head and then when the light was turned out she’d come office. By the time we got there she didn’t even know where she was. He put her peacefully to sleep. I asked him to do an necropsy in the hope that he would learn something that might help some other poor cat and save it from this kind of slow death. There was no reason that can be found why she developed a cirrhotic liver. The vet said he had seen it before in animals that drink from swimming pools or lick chemi- cals in cleaning solutions. But Shawnee has never exposed to more than small amounts of bleach in water for cleaning and then she never was on the wet surface of areas cleaned in this way. I can only hope that my next jaguarundi will suffer no such fate. I know that no other cat will ever take her place, but I am sold completely on jaguarundis and want to get another one as soon as possible. 1971: Kenny and his cheetah live on a 130 acre ranch North Branch, MN Shawnee made many friends in her short with many other native and exotic pets. Twelve and a half foot high fences life and I am sure that cats in general with barbed wire tops are necessary for security. Looking closely, Kenny acquired a few more friends because of her. has freckles like his cat!

23 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006

Trading in Exotic Species?

The buying, selling, and trading of protected animals is highly regu- lated, and is taken seriously by the federal government. Federal laws such as the Endangered Species Act and the Lacey Act regulate who can trade in these animals across state lines—by and large, only few people can. Read up on the Lacey Act, the Endangered Species Act, and other related topics here: http://www.laceyactawareness.com Above all, if you have questions contact the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Your future may depend on it! Don’t be found

24 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Domestic Born Asian golden cat 1972 Early hobby breeding accomplishments on rare species no longer in US captivity By Arnette Barnett, Saugerties, NY than alive. He would not start breathing; he ning to look like a little butterball. Let me After a long and disappointing three and was dehydrated from his extra-long stay in make mention that our male tiger and the one-half year wait, our asian golden cats, the uterus; and his lungs were filled with newborn share the same birthday, one year Mommy and Apollo, have finally come mucous. After all the initial work with him apart. through with a little boy. was over, he was weighed nine ounces and Due to the circumstances of the birth and On December 31, I noticed what tapped, given glucose and temporary enteri- the fact that Mommy Cat is a very nervous appeared to be evidence of mating activity. tis serum. Then he was put into an incuba- cat and she had no milk, we decided not to Mommy Cat’s neck was all bitten up, and tor for intensive care. attempt to give her the baby. With no moth- she was extremely vociferous towards the Since then, it has been uphill all the way er-child bond, she surely would have male. Figuring on a gestation of 72-74 days, and although he is only three days old, his devoured it. He still stays in an incubator I hoped for a birth between March 12 and weight gain is already obvious. He is begin- except when I am feeding him. He is now 14. This pair of cats are extremely compatible, and are allowed to remain together at all times, but in case of a pregnancy, I decided to separate them on March 3. We kept a close eye on Mommy Cat, but she never showed any of the normal signs of an impending delivery. Her nipples didn’t swell, and no fetal movements were seen. She did not even prepare for the delivery by building a nest or removing any fur from around her nipples. Still, I hoped, and on March 12, I noticed what appeared to be light contractions. This persisted for more than 24 hours, without gaining in intensity, although she was obviously in discomfort. Late Monday, March 13, it was decided to give her an injection of Pitocin to help her contractions along. Getting her into a box and giving her a shot only upset her and by then, all contractions stopped. On March 14, still not knowing whether or not she was pregnant, it was decided to knock her down and give her a more thorough examination. For this, she went to Dr. John Jeffries, DVM who has done wonderful work with many of our cats. She was given an injection of Ketilar and examined. At this point, we finally found out that she was pregnant, and also found out that she would have to have a cesarean section. At noon, one large male kitten was removed from her uterus. Incidentally, dur- This collage is dedicated to the best known ocelot in LIOC. Each time we ing her 48 hours of labor, the kitten only have looked upon one of Mike Balbo’s works, we have seen a facet of Bru- descended one quarter of an inch. tus. He has served as a model for all the wonderful and important draw- From then on, Mommy Cat did beauti- ings Mike has allowed us to use. It can truly be said that Brutus, in his fully. She is not bothering her stitches; and way, has done as much, if not more, to further the knowledge, care, and we have been told that there is no reason enjoyment of exotics as any member of LIOC. Brutus, the Columbian why she can’t have normal deliveries in the ocelot belonging to Mike Balbo, 21-01 46th Street, Long Island City, NY, is future. no longer physically with us; however he will spiritually be omnipresent Our next problem was the little one. whenever we glance at a newsletter or learn more about the exotic When he was removed, he was more dead species from one of Mike’s illustrative drawings.

25 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 getting about 12 feedings per day of weeks old, is at least as big as any five ate little boy, even with strangers, doesn’t approximately 6 cc each. His daily con- months old domestic kitten, and just about show any of the normal ‘‘kitten fears”, and sumption is between two and one-half and as agile. The growth that has taken place in appears to be very well adjusted, although three ounces. Needless to say, we love him the mere eleven weeks that he has been somewhat babyish. I guess this is to be already. He is getting stronger and friskier with us has been phenomenal and Jeff is expected. He was already ten weeks old by by the day. Originally, we were going to well on his way to becoming a truly beauti- the time he finally learned to lap milk out of call him Caesar for his type of birth, but ful golden cat. a bowl and he still prefers his bottle. later we decided that it would be nicer to Jeff has adopted me as his mommy and Jeff has completed his preliminary call him “Jeff” after the veterinarian that seeks me out when he’s tired, hungry, or course of immunization, and the typical had worked so hard to make his life possi- just wants affection. He sleeps with me at “infant danger period” is just about over. ble. night, and nurses on my neck, fingers or lip His doctor says that he is just perfect, the Recent progress report: Jeff, now 11 most of that time. He is quite an affection- picture of health.

Monstrous Feline Nearly Devours Innocent Bystander This Midwest Branch report details a brush with near disaster and why no future meetings were held in uncontrolled areas This might have been the headline had terically from what to her and many others, tion concerning ownership of these animals. the news media been present at our I’m sure, was a horrifying experience. We shuddered and for some time concen- meeting on Sunday, July 9. The Following rangers, police, ambu- trated on calming respective nerves. Some afternoon began full of promise. lances, and mass disturbance, the left, many stayed to discuss the mishap. We The weather was warm and Lowes with Cortez and Inky resolved that we would no longer expose clear. We had chosen what we drove off with the authorities. our cats at meetings in public places, both thought was a desirable loca- They must now go through for their sake and the public’s. To invite cats tion for the meeting. Linda their own personal nightmare, into private homes would be the option of Harrah had phoned in advance perhaps resulting in the loss of the host, taking into consideration his cir- to be certain that the park manage- Cortez. In addition, others of us cumstances. Cats away from home must be ment at Blacklick Woods in Columbus, who own exotic cats must now be pre- under the owner’s control. In conjunction Ohio, would be approving and aware that pared for the possibility of adverse legisla- with the above resolutions, all agreed that there might be exotic cats in attendance. Members began arriving in surprising number with a good time in mind and food to be shared. Mr. and Mrs. Lowe even traveled from Cleveland, again with Cortez, their large male cheetah, and his canine companion, Inky. Both were tethered in the comfortable shade of a tree near our shelter house. When I returned from helping to direct members to our area, I found a ranger in the company of the park manager approaching our group. They had come to notify us that no cats were permitted on park property. Discussion followed. In the meantime a crowd was gathering around us, Cortez included. He must have been eyeing a small child on the inner periphery of onlookers, for suddenly he leaped and snapped his lead as if it were paper. A lady standing near— whether relative, friend, or stranger—swept the child up and made a dash a cross an open space. Within ten yards, Cortez had Zapata with Brenda Duprey, of Lenox, Massachusetts. Zapata, known affec- closed the distance. He made a flying tackle tionately as Zip, is the model for the coveted Lotty Award presented each about her legs, pulling her down. The child year by the Long Island Ocelot Club to a member who has, in some way, escaped unharmed and Mr. Lowe captured worked “beyond the call of duty” for the benefit of exotic cats everywhere. Cort within seconds. However, the damage Brenda, the originator and sculptress of the Lotty itself, provides one of was done! The cat’s claws had dug deeply these truly beautiful bronzed ocelot head statues each year. into the woman’s legs. She was crying hys- 26 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 no alcohol or drugs should be consumed at who arrived late with meetings where cats are present and depen- their margay and were dent upon responsible action by owners. quickly evicted by the Our one bright spot for the day was the park rangers. We attendance. As well as Mr. and Mrs. Joe would like to encour- Lowe, Patti and Leonard Ridgway, Harold age these people to try and Linda Harrah, Corrine and Ben Good- us again. We can man, Dave Shifley, and myself, we wel- assure you of a much comed new members LaRue and Carl healthier reception Calire plus Helen and Charles Boldman. next time. Mr. and Mrs. Ascelton slipped quickly and Paws for Peace, quietly away for the safety of their young Bonnie McGhee ocelot as well as did another young couple

Rare Feline Breeding Compound 1973 Early private breeding accomplishments on rare species no longer in US captivity. In July of 1960, French born animal twenty years he knew that 33 animal eighteen months. But the collection of rare trainer Robert Baudy purchased in Sumter species had already become extinct and that (and in some cases almost extinct) species County, Florida, a tract of twenty acres of during his lifetime (and yours) many more to be worked with proved to be a much uncleared land to be earmarked as the first would go and disappear from the world. more difficult and longer endeavor. Gov- privately-owned center for captive repro- Due to the relentless persecution waged ernment exportation authorizations from the duction of endangered species. Robert upon them by man ever since the beginning country of origin was in almost every case Baudy is not only a renowned animal train- of ages, the most immediately threatened extremely difficult to obtain in view of the er but also a zoologist and a life-long ani- were the great and majestic cat predators strict regulations already protecting the mal lover who realized years ago the urgent such as African lions, tigers, leopards, species abroad. In some instances such as need for such a center. During the past jaguars, pumas, cheetahs, etc. Species such the collection of the rare snow leopard as the giant Siberian tiger (Panthera Tigris (Panthera Uncia) and black jaguar (Pan- Altaica) and Amurian leopard (Panthera thera Onca) as much as seven years were Pardus Orientalis) were already down to necessary to obtain a compatible, unrelated less than 100 specimens left in their native pair of potential breeders. Losses were haunts. The decision to locate the com- inevitable even with the best of care due to pound in Sumter County, Florida was moti- the sudden tremendous change in climactic vated by the proximity of a large packing conditions and environment. But today, the plant (Central Packing Company) which Rare Feline Breeding Compound is truly a would provide the staple diet of raw meat successful haven for some endangered for the great carnivores. Clearing of the species. During the year 1971, 33 cubs land, fencing and cross fencing, drilling for belonging to nine cat species were success- water and erection of buildings took about fully raised out of 35 births. Some of the

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27 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 cubs like the jaguar cubs had to be artifi- captivity only seven times in 900 world compound for captive reproduction purpos- cially hand raised because of lack of inter- zoos over a period of 100 years. Yet in our es such as the nearly extinct Galapagos tor- est from the mother in her offspring. The balmy Florida in sub-tropical climate and at toise (only about 1000 left in the wilds) technique of artificial hand raising large sea level, this very delicate animal has been Madagascan lemurs, rare primates such as cats was improved tremendously during the successfully propagated during the year the golden mangabeys of which there are past ten years mainly due to our work. Dur- 1971. The rarest cat of the world, the black only nine in world collections, etc. Drome- ing the past five years, one 135 tiger cubs of jaguar, indigenous to the Amazon rainforest dary camels which no longer exist in wild two different species, Bengal (Panthera section of Brazil numbers only twelve spec- state are now in stock for future breeding Tigris) and Siberian (Panthera Tigris imens in world’s collections at the time of and the giant of all birds, the African ostrich Altaica) have been successfully raised at the this writing. Out of this 17-3-5 number, four is at this time laying eggs at the compound. compound and many large zoos of the are here at the Rare Feline Breeding collec- I hope these few facts may have been of world feature Sumter County born great tion, two of which were born and success- some interest to you. Every penny of profit cats (Detroit, St. Louis, Philadelphia, fully raised during 1971. This is the second I make goes to the propagation of endan- Cincinnati, Chicago, London, Paris, successful breeding of this rare cat in zoo- gered animal species, which will enable Moscow, Rome). The snow leopard (Pan- logical history. The Amurian leopard, your grandchildren to see live creatures thera Uncia) one of the rarest and most which number less than twenty animals in which would have otherwise been available beautiful cats of the world, lives in a germ- their native North Korea and Siberia were to them only as stuffed specimens in a free environment at an average altitude of also bred successfully in 1971. Several much poorer world. 18,000 feet in a pure world of everlasting other animal species not related to cats are Robert Baudy, Florida snow and has been successfully bred in also being preserved and studied at the President’s Statements

1 1974 Ken Hatfield was the first member-elected president. Ken served as president for 13 ⁄2 years. These three president’s messages show the times—the pre-ESA rule days—and how the club struggled to save its ocelots against the federal government. January: I am for breeding, propaga- have as much right to keep a sixty-pound and any legal fees he will have to incur. tion, and preservation as much as the next cat as a neighbor does to keep a sixty- Please be generous. person, and realize we must breed in order pound dog. I oppose these laws because —Ken Hatfield, President to survive. However, I joined the club some they clearly violate our constitutional rights twelve years ago because my margay need- by discriminating, depriving citi- ed help—he didn’t know what he should zens of property without due eat. I have lived with this thought in mind process, and denying person’s all these years. I don’t want to sound repeti- equal protection of the law. tious, but I still feel our main purpose is to —Ken Hatfield, President help the exotic pet. There is no other organization to do this and I don’t think we March: We’re gonna fight! should abandon this principal. Let’s keep Ken Hatfield is going to head the private individual with one pet foremost up our efforts to fight the recent in our minds and bring the others in as wor- legislation against exotic cats. thy projects but not as important as the Ken is planning to make a trip to thing the club was originally formed for. I Washington, D.C. to talk to the think we can do this and still be progres- folks at the Department of the sive. I believe in the democratic process; I Interior with respect to having our may be against what the majority votes for, kittens exempted from the present but if it is a majority, I will not only abide proposed ban on interstate ship- by the decision, but will pursue it vigorous- ment and sale of wildlife. Since ly without further dissent. these kittens are decedents of ani- I also pledge my help (for what it is mals which are legal under the worth) in fighting laws prohibiting owner- act, having been brought into the ship of our exotic cats as pets. In the past, country prior to the act, we have we have for the most part, stuck our collec- high hopes. Should this fail, Ken tive heads in the sand and allowed city, is willing to take to the courts in county, and state laws to be passed without this fight. Of course this will take any opposition, which has resulted in 90% money. We are asking for dona- 1974: June Hodge with Siberian tiger cub. of our pets being outlawed. I feel it is time tions (whatever the amount) to Photo by Tom Brownell, Seattle Post-Intelli- to come out of our corner fighting—we help finance the travel expenses, gencer 28 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 May: Ocelot Census needed number of domestic born kittens produced. produced, if any, and whether or not the kit- In order to present an intelligent case to No names will be furnished to the Depart- ten survived. the Department of the Interior, L.I.O.C. will ment of the Interior, just the figures. Please have to give them actual figures relating to inform us of the number of ocelots you —Ken Hatfield, President the number of ocelots in captivity and the have and the number of kittens you have Ocelots Confiscated Another sign of the times—ocelots being confiscated in NJ. That state closed down in the early 1970s—and it 1975 wasn’t because of tigers. It was ocelots. Anyone who thinks tigers are the problem, forget it all started with a beautiful little 20 to 40 pound jungle cat. Mid Atlantic States report est areas, ocelot and other wildlife is van- if there was any way they could help. The The discussion began informally con- ishing and all members and guests felt it rest of the members never phoned or sent a cerning laws with the state: owning, their obligation to help protect and perpetu- note to see what happened. That’s not say- transporting were discussed by visit- ate the species through private breeding too much for those members who don’t ing and retained attorney Mr. ing and ownership. A suggestion even care. Edward Feurey concerning the was made that individual letters The Neuhauses were thanked for open- recent confiscation of Mrs. should be sent to your senators ing their home for this meeting and all Stevenson’s and Ken Neuhaus’s and representatives concerning members left with more awareness of the ocelots. Recent articles were cir- public opinion. The attorney for overall situation. culated and members voiced the club suggested arousing the It is sad to note we’ve had more help in their personal pros and cons. public by making them aware of this situation from non-members than from Search and seizure during recent happenings. Over 54 meet- we did from our members. wartime in Nazi Germany seemed like ing notices were sent out to mem- a fair comparison after the seizure of these bers; out of this only eight members came Respectfully submitted, ocelots. Due to man’s encroachment on for- to the meeting and four others called to see Henrietta Largmann

29 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961

1967 1968 1969 1970 1971

1977 1978 1979 1980 1981

1987 1988 1989 1990 1991

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966

1972 1973 1974 1975 1976

1982 1983 1984 1985 1986

1992 1993 1994 1995 1996

2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Letters to Editor The following two letters are responses to a bad owner doing stupid things and what should be LIOC’s involvement. In 1962, in Tacoma Washington. a pair scared stiff. Because of this, we can’t afford This, of course, doesn’t justify ripping of lions escaped during a storm. Their to ignore such people. Certainly we should into another member or owner over person- owner kept them in improper security. One try our best to push for attitude and behav- ality conflicts but if you’re so stupid that of the animals injured a local resident and ioral change in them but where this fails you don’t realize actions by others who the result of that was that all wild pets were and where such people pose risks to our threaten the majority of owners, it’s my banned in the area. cats we have no choice but to do what is opinion that you’re too stupid to be a good A few years later in Portland, the necessary to publicly expose them. We owner. In the case noted in the editorial, the L.I.O.C. branch coordinators there managed have to be able to prove to the authorities member who got panned has posed what I to do the same favor there for area cat own- that we are a responsible group and can be consider a direct threat to every owner in ers. They kept several lions and a jaguar trusted to conduct ourselves with little or no the northwest by their actions and attitudes. under risky security and walked them in the governmental help. This might mean doing Additionally, they seem to feel that LIOC is neighborhood. Neighbors who complained as little as using peer pressure to keep an to be used as a tool for their interests in pro- were told to mind their own business. owner from dragging his cats through tav- motional schemes. The person has taken a This resulted in a petition drive, which erns, stores, and schools to as much as clos- lion to several public places in apparent succeeded in banning cats from Portland ing down a pet shop. When the choice is indifference to security needs and in total and Multanomah County. Later they man- doing that or letting unknowledgeable indifference to the requests of other local aged to lose three Asian golden cats (one frightened bureaucrats do it for you or to members that she cool it in the interest of recovered, one never seen again and one you, there really is no choice. If we go into the majority. When told by the Portland city killed by a hunter) and because of lax secu- hiding whenever a foolish owner turns up council to erect suitable temporary facilities rity have had two lions killed by neighbors we’re going to pay for it. As a group, we to gain permit to keep the cat, she chose in two months after they escaped into the are considered no better than the worst instead to go to the local papers and broad- neighborhood and killed livestock. Their among us due to the public attitude outlined casters in a play for sympathy. This not actions and lack of judgment generated above. When an owner upsets people by his only irritated the council, and threatened a headlines of outrage throughout the entire actions, we have to choose between calling hardening of attitudes of cat owners there, northwest and brought pressure from a spade a spade, denying our enemies the but her appearances in the Seattle area on humane organizations and animal control chance to bury us, or ignoring or covering TV and in the papers (especially pictures of authorities on all of us. Their behavior not up for him or her, thus leaving it to our her small son with the cat) upset the city only made it nearly impossible for us to opponents to hold services after we’ve council of Seattle. keep cats, but provided a negative model to buried ourselves. I should point out here also, that this per- which all of us here are still compared. The reason for noting these incidents was a recent newsletter editorial which Complete Feline Diet appeared to advocate looking the other way chicken formula designed when confronted with questionable behavior by cat owners. While I can accept the for EXOTIC CATS fact that as owners we need to stick togeth- Buy Wholesale Direct er, I can’t accept the philosophy that we are obligated to defend owners whose actions From Distributor! risk our cats and as one of “the out of state letter writers” mentioned in the editorial, I feel that a response to the editorial is #6910 required. 24, 14oz cans-25lbs/cs There has never been a negative law only $29/cs passed that could not find its origins in the (1 can feeds a 40lb cat) foolish actions of an owner or dealer. In MC/VISA only. No COD’s + UPS shipping some cases that misbehavior was clearly a case of open public risk or cruelty. 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32 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 son would not have been before a negative Bo, an impetuous lynx, council if she hadn’t drawn citizens’ com- Loved a Siamese feline named Sphynx; plaints by dragging the lion through stores Their kittens, (all males), in the first place. Had invisible tails; Now, I believe in the live and let live And ONE had invisible kynx! philosophy, and I agree that we have to stick together to survive, but I also believe that when we’re under the gun, as we are, live and let live doesn’t apply to those who risk our cats and sticking together doesn’t include backing up such people either. —John Paramore John was a board member

The editorial on the negative aspects of the Long Island Ocelot Club interested me greatly, as did the tongue in cheek article— experience and expertise? If we were to to wear down their resistance through per- How to Destroy a Club. The backbiting and “clean our own back yard” we should stand sistent adherence to the standards I set for petty jealousies that seem to abound in any a better chance of convincing the powers myself. Since we need all the friends we organization, be it an animal club or a ladies that be that we are responsible individuals can get, it is most discouraging to have garden society, are always defeating to the and not just a “bunch of nuts” as we are some member “blow it” by irresponsibility, overall purpose for which the club was often called. inadequate care of the cats, or flagrant formed. Through the ages I have worked with flaunting of the restrictions placed on us. Often when I recommend to someone many organizations that purport to be inter- This is a crucial time in the history of that they join LIOC and our local group, ested in the welfare of animals in general or LIOC, to say nothing of the history of our A.C.E.C., they say, “I’m not a joiner” or “I wildlife in particular. I have met with country. We are fighting for not only our don’t like clubs.” No doubt they are think- tremendous antagonism against exotic cat existence as a club, but also for our individ- ing of these internal machination when they ownership, but have been fortunate enough ual rights. Now is the time for us to take a hesitate to become members. Very possibly, stand on issues much of what is proper care too, the members who stick their heads in for an ocelot, margay, etc., how to assure the sand are hoping they won’t have to the best possible dispensation of the off- become involved in the political problems spring resulting from our breeding pro- and personality conflicts which are bound grams, how we intend to cope with the to be part of any group. potential for over-population of exotics and At this time, when solidarity is so impor- how we stand on the laws that affect us tant for the protection of our cats, your rule directly in regard to keeping our pets. If we of keeping quiet unless you have something prove we have all aspects of exotic owner- nice to say is certainly valid. When dealing ship covered, we can demand a say in the with animal regulatory official (whether restrictions placed on us. If we look the local, state, or federal), the press or any out- other way when a member refuses to even siders, we must present a unified front and try and legalize his situation or obviously the image of responsible dedication to the keeps his cats in a manner that is unfitting, purposes of our organization. we are jeopardizing all our cats. It doesn’t I must take this a step further and submit matter if the member who endangers us is for the members’ consideration that the one whose company we enjoy, who is fun image of dedication to our purposes would to be with at meetings or if we dislike him be considerably easier to maintain if our intensely. The only criterion should be purposes were more clearly defined. And 1975: Stan Brock is shown above adherence to the standards we will set for you point out: we cannot recommend speci- with Sach, a young jaguar belong- the well being of the cats. When we have fications for feeding and housing unless we ing to and bred by Charles and such standards, we will truly be united and have first hand knowledge of the specie in Sadie Douglas. Stan just complet- able to offer something to our community. question. Since so many species are repre- ed a film, Forgotten Wilderness, Until then, we will continue to see our per- sented by our club, would it not be possible which will be released this year sonal freedoms eroded and our difficulties to set minimum standards for the care of and stars many LIOC cats—watch mount. each of these species based on members for it. Virginia English (now Carin Sousa)

33 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Tencing: 1959-1976 1976 An account of what it was like to share a life with a rare species. Tencing was a very small jaguarundi meat spiced with a bit of vegetable or fruit when he came to live with Frances and plus whatever else was considered benefi- David Tweet. He was a tame baby and in cial to him. When a dab of food was offered spite of the fact that one book on mammals him he would give a little cry of delight. containing the statement that jaguarundis Floral accents appealed to him. A few drops are untamable. Frances thought highly of of perfume (such as Borghese’s Fiamma) him and declared she would not exchange would cause him to luxuriate, rolling on his him for a pink diamond. back as if to transfer the fragrance to his He aged easily into his new home. A ticked brown fur. It became a weekly event nine-year-old Siamese cat by the name of to provide him with a perfume treat. Robert readily accepted him and the two Except for a grave illness (Feline infec- were soon great buddies. Even when the tious enteritis) at the age of 18 months, small kit from the wilds ran circles around a Tencing was a healthy cat, practically never tolerant, older housecat, there was not the sick. There came a time however, when it slightest disruption. was unmistakable that his health was fail- Nature, however, in the form of a spring ing. He was taken to a veterinary clinic for ice storm presented a serious threat to the examination. Diagnosis was severe kidney health of the young jaguarundi only a few Tencing as a baby impairment. There would be no heroic mea- months after his arrival. Trees coated with even a sneeze. sure, no strange medical procedures to try ice and snow fell across the power lines, Adapting to the life of his family proved to prolong life. The kindest thing would be transformers blew up, and their warm house to be no problem for the small cat. He lived to bring him back to his quiet, familiar quickly became a frigid one. A miniature in several different localities and states. One home. kerosene stove was sent in by the passable time there was a transcontinental jet flight In the week that followed, he slept more main road and was the only means of that he accepted easily. and more. Often when awake, he wanted to warming food. Tencing was handled with great care and be held. Though he was now silent, his eyes Robert, wearing his woolen sweater, gentleness so to never destroy or betray the were expressive as he looked up into the retired under bed covers for the duration. trust he had bad in the beginning. As he face of his old friend. When he heard an electric can opener come grew older, he became sweeter, if anything. On the final night, once when he awoke on ten days later, he crawled out of bed his He had an affectionate way with his best he wanted to be held. He lay on David’s lap sweater and resumed normal life. friend, sometime catching the hem of her and watched Frances as she worked in the The jaguarundi youngster had been dress or her with his teeth as if to keep her kitchen. Some hours later at 5 o’clock the installed in a cat carrier that was insulated with him as long as he could. He gave as next morning, with both of his friends with by covering of coats, blanket and the like. much love as he received. him, he died peacefully in his bed. The body heat in this small area kept him He was a happy fellow; enthusiasm was A remarkable little creature, Tencing was snug during the ten days. When the power one of his endearing qualities. He enjoyed a treasured for over sixteen years. back on, he emerged fit as could be, without wide variety of foods—different kinds of It’s a What?—Travelling with an Oncilla 1977 Pat Quillen runs SOS Care in Escondido, CA and is a Lotty recipient and a life member. Our little Gensie is one of the many cats a couple of her favorite toys and haul them lifts all four simultaneously, wearing that who feels it is essential that she be noticed. into the carrier when she sees me packing a silly grin she seems to have inherited from I’m sure most of you fellow exotic owners suitcase. Of course I must first convince her her father. must have at one time or another been very that I really do not want her assistance orga- Now I ask, would you have the heart to weary of repeatedly explaining the size, nizing my own belongings which is no easy leave her behind? nature, diet, habits and origin of your cats, task. As departure time nears she bounds On one occasion there was no carrier in in response to “How big will it get when it about, leaping to my shoulders and circling the room and poor Gensie ran about franti- grows up?” “Does it bite?” “What does it my neck purring loudly all the while with cally squealing her frenzied disbelief and eat?” “Can you touch it?” “Where did you her little ears flapping with excitement. concern, so I brought a cardboard box in find it?” etc, etc… I have no difficulty getting her into the and placed it beside the desk where her car- Since Gensie began her travel career at carrier, for each time I pass near it during rier would usually stand before a trip. This one day of age, it seems only natural to grab my routine she trots quickly in, spins round satisfied her completely, she loped about, in

34 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006

and out of the carton just as she would have one, and I became aware of the vibrating tators’ eyes widen with amusement. done with the carrier. purrrrrr. The minute she gains recognition, as she We all know that there are times when I attempted next to cover her carrier with always does, the inevitable question is we just are in no mood to answer all the a towel. Have you ever seen a bath towel asked, “What is it?” to which I reply: “Oh, questions and in those cases we attempt to inch its way through a tiny hole? The spec- just a silly oncilla.” awaiting the inevitable conceal Gensie’s identity by using a variety second question: “It’s a what?” I now ask of seemingly foolproof carriers. Our first Gensie, “Okay Its a what, ready to go?” carrier was so terrific (or so we thought) And with her incessant purr and a silly because it did not appear to be an animal oncilla grin she zips into the carrier; whips carrier at all. It allowed sufficient air to her around and flops on her belly facing me, and unfortunately more than sufficient air to funny little ears going like mad, all pre- us from inside the carrier. You see, Gensie pared for the next adventure. is one of those who when excited will “pass Except for her initial trip, a flight which I air.” Since one of her favorite dishes is a doubt she would remember, her travel has blend of rich milk, baby food, egg yolk, and been by auto (or truck which she enjoys vitamins, this is quite an embarrassment as equally) so she is quite comfortable and you sit or stand trying to pretend you do not quite well behaved while I drive. She notice the terrible aroma clouding from prefers to lie across the back of the seat and time to time around you. We decided this rest her head on my shoulders, watching the deadly silence was not the answer, and gave landscape disappear into the rear of the her a carrier that had a tiny mesh, which door window beside me. Unlike her nature allowed her to see out of, and when covered at home or in motel rooms, or at friend’s with a baby blanket, no one could see her. homes, she is quite calm and almost lethar- This satisfied her only for a short time, after gic while in route. If she is traveling with which she began to emit her strange rasping other companions (human or feline) whose cry for attention and recognition. Between 1977: Precious, a six week old presence requires her confinement to a car- cries all who were near enough could hear “Marlot” is shown here with owner rier for the balance of travel time, she the ever-present loud purrrrrrrrr. We gradu- Barbara Brock. Precious is a LIOC seems not to mind at all as long as she is ated to the carriers with only a few open- first—her sire is a domestic born included. ings in the nature of little round holes about margay and her mother is a domes- —Pat Quillen one inch in diameter. Much to my dismay tic born ocelot. as I sat leafing casually through a magazine, carrier in my lap, the lady sitting next to me emitted such a shriek that I nearly leaped The Zoological Association Of America from my chair. I glanced down to see this invites you to join little paw grasping the lady’s sleeve. I stared in disbelief as for the first time I saw the actual extended length of Gensie’s right There are several levels of membership - Associate, Professional front leg exposed to the shoulder from this Zooculturist, Public Facility, Non-public Facility and Commercial. minute little hole in the end of the carrier. Membership fees vary and some levels require sponsorship. No damage was done to the lady’s cloth- ing and we all had a chuckle as I moved a ZAOA web site: www.zaoa.org chair away, putting a safe distance between e-mail: [email protected] anything but Gensie and myself. I returned or write: Zoological Association of America to my magazine but right away my aware- HC1, Box 747 ness of my surroundings was revived as I Elgin, AZ 85611 heard a couple of snickers to my right. I leaned to look at the side of the carrier (which seemed to be the source of the amusement) and saw Gensie’s eyeball An organization of Zoos and Zooculturists pressed firmly to one of the upper holes and supporting conservation, her paw dangling affably out of a lower propagation & preservation.

35 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Southwestern Branch: Confiscation Close Call Exotic cats were allowed to travel anywhere with their owners but LIOC people were starting to discover restrictions. The fall meeting of the Southwest gay and one cougar present. nice. Animal control however came on like Branch was held October 29 in Garland, Unknown to us, a member arrived early thunder and lightening but because all our Texas, just outside of Dallas. However, the with a small lion and tiger. A sub- members were most cooperative, most important event of the meeting as it division was next door to the asking how they could help, they turned out was unexpected and unsched- motel and needless to say neigh- seemed a bit thrown off by the uled—our cats were nearly confiscated or at boring kids discovered the cat’s cordiality and cooperation. The least threatened with legal action. It seems trailer. Animal control was margay was caged and the that two weeks prior to our meeting the called and our member, Walter cougar was on steel cable in town council of Garland passed a “vicious” Marshall was asked to leave. Of the back of a van so they really animal act; it was decided that we posed a course the authorities learned of could not be accused of posing a threat. Two animal control trucks and two our meeting as we did not know we threat to anyone. Names of owners police squad cars were parked in front of were breaking any local law and they were taken and permission was given to our hosts, John and Gale Duke’s house. were watching the Duke’s home for our resume our meeting. Uniforms were everywhere and tension was arrival. —Danny Treaner high even though there was only one mar- The police did nothing and were very California Branch: More Doom and Gloom Bay area members grapple with some complete local bans. Our meeting took place off Highway 1 in patron saint of animals has jumped on the with ocelot icing. Montara, a seaside community and the bandwagon and decided to outlaw almost As we left, there was a gloomy atmos- home of Baby, a gigantic ocelot of great everything but the dog and cat… domesti- phere of impending doom and nothing has beauty belonging to Jean cus, of course. Everything else must go. yet shaken it. Huber. Unfortunately, the Where? We do not know. Naturally, All this came about of course from the turnout was small, but it con- this was the topic of our conver- case that took place during our convention tained within it one of my baby sation. It was decided to retain in which a family who had a mountain lion ocelots, all grown up now and a lawyer and fight it tooth and which they kept chained by their house was extraordinarily tame. I claw. The ordinance was writ- presumably being teased by some children brought my newest little ten so as to be the most strin- and took it out on the child he knew—the female ocelot and a margay gent of any ever heard of. daughter of his owners. She was badly and jaguarundi baby were also There is no “grandfather mauled, but survived. The cat was shot and present. clause” or anything similar in died soon after. The repercussions of this The news of the latest move to the ordinance presented by the case are indeed very severe. outlaw our pets was grimly announced at health department. We all tried to enjoy Felinely, the gathering. San Francisco, named for the our potluck and especially the LIOC cake Loreon Vigne, President and acting secretary ESSA Rules Against Margay Import 1978 Here again, we kindle vain hope that we could have been declared self-sustaining populations—this time from the F&W people. Of course, it never happened and today the margay are all gone. The following letter was received by your thought I would take this opportunity to inconsistent with the ESSA’s policy on editor from the Endangered Species Scien- inform you of our recent activities involv- imports of specimens of animals and plants tific Authority in response to my answering ing wild cats. included in Appendix I of the Convention. a request for information on rule-making by The permit application referred to above The ESSA has established a policy that it is that department. was submitted by a zoo in the United generally will not approve imports of speci- States. The margays were purchased by an mens on Appendix I unless such imports Dear Ms. Treanor: American couple at a market in Nicaragua. are for essential scientific use not detrimen- On September 7, 1977 the U.S. Endan- The couple were apparently concerned for tal to the survival of the species or to gered Species Authority (ESSA) disap- the welfare of the cats, and tried to give the enhance the propagation or survival of the proved a permit application to import two cats to a zoo to ensure that they would have species. The disapproval by the ESSA is the margays from Nicaragua. As I felt this a suitable home. The ESSA disapproved the first test of its policy as applied to import of action would be of interest to LIOC, I application because the approval would be pet Appendix I animals.

36 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006

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37 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Furthermore, the ESSA noted that the International trade in captive-bred speci- mals be supplied by breeding existing cap- approval of such imports of pet animals mens of Convention species is exempt from tive stock. I would suggest that your organi- would probably stimulate collectors to the provisions of the Convention and can be zation may want to investigate having cer- acquire more animals for pets. As I am sure conducted under a certificate of exemption. tain species of wild cats designated as Cap- you are aware, such activities deplete wild The Convention and ESSA recognize the tive Self-sustaining. This designation sim- populations, and are often conducted with- importance of captive breeding to enhance plifies interstate trade in such animals. out regard to the humane care of the indi- the survival of species included in the I would appreciate it if you would place vidual animals concerned. Appendices of the Convention. However, ESSA on your regular mailing lists. If I can I expect that the ESSA’s impact on the as the taxonomy of wild cats is not well be of any further assistance to you or to activities of LIOC will be minimal. The known, it is very important that breeding other members of your organization please ESSA is primarily concerned with the inter- programs of these animals be rigidly main- write or call me. national trade of wild animals and plants tained to ensure the genetic integrity of the included in the Appendices of the Conven- species. Sincerely, tion on trade in Endangered Species. It would be most appropriate if pet ani- William Y. Brown Executive Secretary

A Win!? 1979 Florida member Nancy Bartlett was taken to court recently and charged with failure to protect the public. Charges stemmed from an incident rapidly back and forth along the side of the cat was found guilty without a trial and was involving her ocelot who allegedly cage and that it was he who bit the cat first! shot by a policeman answering the original “attacked and bit” a five year old neighbor- The owner was legally licensed by the call. hood boy. The child entered a fenced back- State of Florida, which had inspected her yard and admitted in court that he kicked facilities and found them to be adequate for the cage gate containing the cat. Somehow the proper care of the ocelot. the gate sprung open and the child was bit- The jury was out for one hour (which ten. Under questioning, the boy admitted included lunch) before returning a verdict that he and his 16-year-old brother had of not guilty. They obviously thought the entered the yard on previous occasions unsupervised child had no business entering while the owner was absent. Additionally, a fenced yard. he stated that upon release the cat paced Sad to note however is that the innocent Births 1980 Early LIOC magazine featured announcements of births and deaths quite regularly. This is an early account of a Geoffroy hybrid. Our male Geoffroy’s (Rajah) and female claws. He seldom scratches Persian produced a beautiful kitten but has “mouthing” down to on May 5. The kitten is Geoffroy’s a fine art. I play with him in type with slightly longer fur and rather roughly and he recip- is doing very well. Rajah is 12 rocates. However, he will months old now and weighs nine not break the skin even pounds. when excited, but Rajah shares the apartment does fray me about with us and is leash-trained. His diet the edges some- is Nebraska brand feline mix with what. multi-vitamins, milk, and greens. The He will greens are mainly toys; he prefers my fetch anything tropical plants. A caladium is worth sever- that is thrown, al swats and no’s to Rajah. rolled up socks are great. He Rajah is pure Geoffrey in behavior also likes to torment anyone except that he is very quiet. The daily aver- who ignores him, making age is one “miaow” when I let him out of this letter very difficult to the bathroom where he spends the night. He write: I have a pen in one purrs frequently, but that’s all. Rajah is well hand and a set of jaws In the 1980s LIOC had about a dozen local housebroken and has all his teeth and around the other. chapters which were as diverse as their logos. Mike Balbo made this collage of branch logos.

38 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 ESA foils LIOC 1981 This editorial from Shirley Wagner takes the membership to task for the impending captive extinction of the margay and ocelot. Her criticism rings true today. We have lost the margay and we are about to lose the ocelot... unless we breed a lot of spotted gifts. Shame on us! It would appear that Uncle Apparently our creed “preservation and So the profit margin (if there truly was any) Sam has licked us after all. propagation” was more pretty words than has been removed. But the satisfaction one In a recent conversation with this year’s active commitment. receives from knowing that you have Lotty recipient, Pat Quillen, she mentioned Uncle Sam prohibits only the sale of kit- helped enriched just one person’s life with a she was grievously worried about the mar- tens. Yes, that does remove some incentive. generous dose of spotted love, or the satis- gay and the fact that she believed them in It hurts the ole pocket book that sale of kits faction gained in knowing you’ve con- grave danger as no one was breeding them cannot be used to offset the upkeep of the tributed to the survival of a species has not any longer. adults—but does it change our goals? been removed. That started the mental wheels to turning Where was profit included in our stated Endangered species are only endangered and it would appear that Uncle Sam in fact purpose? The adult cats have to be fed kits as numbers dwindle. We have lost sight of has defeated us. What happed folks to the or no kits—why not prove our altruistic the fact that if we can flood the world with stated purpose of LIOC—the creed that we motives and continue to breed? kits, we night be able to be classified as a are dedicated to the “preservation and prop- How many dozens of times have I heard “Captive Self-Sustaining Population” and agation of all species of exotic felidae?” a breeder say, “I’d rather give my kittens to again regain a place in the marketplace. Have we indeed given up and abandoned a good home than to sell them to a bad But, most of all, it would behoove us to our goal? When was the last time you saw one.” OK folks, prove it! The club will help remember that it is more blessed to give margays or even ocelots in the “Births” col- you find homes, good ones, for your kits. than to receive. umn? Ken’s Korner: Shock 1982 A regular feature in those days was a column called Ken’s Korner. President Ken Hatfield was a knowledgeable breeder and owner of many feline species and he regularly shared his knowledge in short pieces such as this one below. The humorous artwork was most likely a reference to the more famous country “Hatfield” from the Hatfield and McCoys of Tennessee days. The term “shock” is one I hear frequent- 1) Depression (quietness and inactivity) the more advanced stages. ly abused. It is extremely important to and lack of normal response to external 4) Rapid pulse, which becomes weak know whether or not shock is truly present, environmental stimuli. and may become absent as shock progress- because its presence or absence often 2) Rapid heart and respiratory rate. es. determines whether or not a condition is 3) Poor capillary refilling time. To test 5) Lowered body temperature. The an emergency. for this, press firmly against the gums, extremities (legs and paws) and skin Shock can be simply defined as the causing them to blanch (whiten) beneath become cool to the touch and rectal temper- failure of the cardiovascular system to your finger. Lift your finger away and ature often drops below 100°F. provide the body tissues with oxygen, see how long it takes for the color to If your cat shows signs of shock follow- without which an animal cannot survive. return to the blanched area. The normal ing injury or prolonged illness, contact a There are several causes of shock. The refilling time is no more than one or two veterinarian immediately. But first wrap most common in veterinary medicine is seconds. Poor capillary filling is an early your cat in a towel or blanket if possible to blood loss. The following signs may indi- and constant sign of shock, it precedes the preserve body heat. cate the presence of shock: pale, cool, mucous membranes present in

Annual Convention 1983 The 1983 LIOC Convention was held at Isis Oasis, the beautiful California resort owned by Loreon Vigne. Staff from Sea World joined the group on Friday and brought a baby tiger, a cheetah, and a black leopard cub. The convention account published in the July issue of the newsletter included this final paragraph below: Among the many memories are Gary Fred Boyajian and margay Lefty. (This is have liked to. And we missed Art Human Butler’s tiger taking a dip in the pool, Ethel Lefty’s third convention.) Lots of bobcats— this year. (Where are you Art?) But all that Hauser, another baby chaus in tow, taking Gayle Schaecker’s, Jerry Boyles’, and I made it contributed to the occasion and her leave to give it a bottle, J.B. ready to go think more. We did not see as many “local” despite our declining membership, made it to another winery (he’s a wine steward at west coast faces (especially with as many as seem an active, growing thing—in spirit home), Jackie Vanderwall and clouded, there are on the west coast) as we would anyway.

39 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 LIOC-ESCF Executive Meeting Hot topics of the day were the tax-exempt status for the LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, update on the Endangered Species Act that consumed everyone’s energy during the 1970s and efforts to boost a sagging membership in LIOC. President, Ken Hatfield, called the General Member- ship meeting to order. There being no “old business” Ken reported that LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation A tribute to has completed its three years as a probationary non- our artists profit organization and is now confirmed as such. old and The current laws pertaining to movement of exotics new. (endangered and threatened species) was discussed. Currently, the U.S.D.I. will issue permits to individuals. Those individuals may then engage in interstate commerce with another so licensed. This currently does not apply to ocelots, as they are a native species. As always, finances (or lack of them) was brought up. It was suggested and referred to the board for discussion that LIOC consider publishing the newsletter quarterly versus the bi-monthly schedule we now use. In order to boost membership, it was suggested that each member now enjoying a “Life Member” status give a membership to a new member each year, with hopes that those new members would renew on their own the following year. It was also suggested that when a kitten goes to a new home a membership in LIOC should go with it if the new owner is not a member. Crazy Caracal and Cartoons 1984 The club has its share of home-grown cartoonists that kept us laughing and groaning each issue.

40 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Clarification of the Endangered Species Act 1985 What is trade and what is not

United States Department of the Interior certain purposes, but federal regulations son to the other on a breeding loan and FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE WASHINGTON. D.C 2Q240. require that the buyer (not the seller) obtain thereafter the recipient buys it without a the permit. This arrangement provides pro- permit, it will be construed as an obvious Mr. Fred Boyajian tection for the endangered animal subterfuge to avoid the requirements 2996 Howell Mill Road, N.W. because the applicant for a permit of the U.S. Endangered Species Atlanta, Georgia 30327 must state his purpose for Act. If an animal is transferred obtaining an endangered from one person to another on Dear Mr. Boyajian: species, his expertise, and a breeding loan, and there- This letter responds to your telephone provide evidence of the ade- after the recipient applies for request of September 27, 1985, for clarifi- quacy of his facilities. a permit with this office, then cation of transactions between buyers and A buyer may put a deposit no deposit or purchase may be sellers of native felids (e.g. ocelots) protect- on an endangered animal pend- made before the permit is ed by the U.S. Endangered Species Act. ing receipt of a permit. If the permit issued. A copy of the breeding loan You recently obtained an Endangered is not issued, it is up to the buyer and agreement must accompany the applica- Species permit to buy two ocelots for seller to arrange the fate of the deposit. It is tion. breeding purposes from a breeder in the illegal to sell, or offer to sell an endangered Delays this past year in permit issuance State of Washington. It took five months to species in interstate commerce without a have been caused by staff shortages. We are obtain the permit. You asked if a deposit on permit. Therefore, any advertisement or now fully staffed and should be able to an ocelot to keep the present owner from correspondence relating to such a transac- issue endangered species permits in less selling to an intrastate buyer who would not tion must carry a warning to the effect that than 90 days. have to wait for a federal permit. no sale may be consummated until a permit Sincerely, It is legal under the U.S. Endangered has been obtained from the U.S. Fish and R. K. Robinson Species Act to buy an endangered species Wildlife Service. Chief, Branch of Permits in interstate commerce, under permit, for If an animal is transferred from one per- Federal Wildlife Permit Office

Recovery of Scooby 1986 What do do when your pet bobcat escapes A lost or escaped cat is something that What to do? Contacting the media rounding neighbors were alerted to be on most exotic feline owners live in dread of. seemed too dangerous. Newspapers and TV the look-out for a very small (almost a It happened to me a short time ago. are first and foremost publicity/sensation baby, in fact) harmless bobcat. Scooby, my year-old male bobcat, fol- seekers—a twenty-pound, declawed and Despite the search being hampered by lowed me out the front door without my tame bobcat could easily become a two-ton several days of typically rainy New Eng- detecting it. Siberian tiger embarked on a campaign of land weather (no chance for Scoo to follow When it became apparent that “Scoo” terror. (Bobcat=wildcat=lion, tiger, or what- a recent trail home) a sighting was made was really missing, I did a rather unproduc- ever) tive, but predictably human thing i.e., I pan- On the other hand, to the icked. After a number of hours of frantical- local animal control officer ly beating the bushes around my house and (dog catcher) and police adjacent areas, it was time to sit down, calm department, publicity is as down and think things over. welcome as a terminal dis- I began to reason: due to bobcat camou- ease. flaging, it was obvious that I could just I started making phone about step on Scoo without ever seeing calls: the animal control offi- him. The area around my house is heavily cer came over right away. She wooded; a hundred bobcats could easily immediately fell in love with conceal themselves while gleefully watch- my two seven-week old ing an equal number of humans stumbling cougar kittens. A stroke of through the bushes making a--s of them- luck! I had an ally. The police selves. department and all my sur- Scooby back at home

41 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 within 24 hours. Scoo attempting to took physical possession of Scoo the police who might question his ability to defend befriend a neighbor’s cat, tried following it chose to arrive. Although the cooperation himself: well Scoo learned long ago that as into the neighbors home (neighbor and and good-heartedness of the police were far as agility goes, dogs are only clumsy neighbor’s cat in particular, not thrilled with beyond question in this situation, there oafs compared to himself. the idea.) seems to be an unwritten law among police But, above all, in the event (God forbid) I immediately mobilized some of the departments that squad cars arriving on the of an escape, establish a network; beating local kids (Kids looking for a lost kitty scene must always do so in a cloud of dust, bushes is OK for Jungle Joe moves, but not invoke more sympathy than silly grown-ups tires squealing and brakes screeching. good for much else. looking for kitty.) Armed with written Scoo immediately decided that a trip to Re-assure everyone (police, neighbors, notices to the effect: “Please do not harm the moon was in order, but superman him- etc) that the animal is near harmless and the harmless cat” plus my telephone num- self couldn’t have broken my grip and 15 will bite only if attacked or frightened (if ber. I then parked myself next to the tele- minutes later Scoo was home, safe an young, the animal is barely out of diapers. phone. sound, a bit thinner, very hungry and glad If old, it is on its last leg, old, decrepit, near- At 4:10 P.M. I got my call. Scoo was to be a tragedy had been averted. ly toothless and half-blind.) babies and under an abandoned truck not 300 yards Scoo got loose because I broke one of senior citizens are not considered threaten- from the original sighting. my own rules: usually whenever I leave the ing. Needless to say, a few world speed house I automatically confine him, but on Be sure to ask the animal control officer records were broken in the time it took me this particular day, I had a quick errand to and the police to immediately notify you of to get there. The neighbor who phoned was run and let my rule lapse. As it turned out, I any sighting. Tell them that you want to be calmly sitting beside the truck trying to was very lucky indeed. the first on the scene to do the handling— entice Scoo out with a plate of cat food. Secondly, although I have always main- they will be only happy to oblige you in Naturally Scoo wasn’t having any; hun- tained that a collar is a potential noose. I this. gry as he was, he would of course prefer have changed my mind and Scoo looks But as they say, “All’s well that ends cyanide to cat food. very chic in his new, red leather collar. well,” and I hope that the reporting of this Thirty feet from the truck, I called his Also, if I was 100% convinced of the incident is of some value to fellow feline name and he was in my arms so fact he necessity for de-clawing before, I am now owners. nearly knocked me over. 110% convinced. Without claws, Scoo was —David Baskin Unfortunately, at the exact moment that I not capable of causing real injury. For those

Divided We Stand, United We Fall 1987 A president’s perspective by Fred Boyajian. During the past several months I have realistically capable of handling. This com- through an equally odious form of cater- had a lot of interest in determining the state mon tread of care of felines is where all the wauling: member bashing! of LIOC today. Many of you have written similarities end. There is no typical exotic Perhaps this is true of all animal owners or called and recently during trips to the owner rather they are as individualized as because animals are an emotional, not ratio- west coast and Florida I had the opportunity each species of cat. Cat people are good- nal issue. to visit many more members in person. I natured as long as we see things their way. Yes, different tunes of member bashing have tried to listen, observe, be as neutral Many members have been on their own so and open minded as possible. After all, I long that they think that they are experts live in my own little world with a few small based on their narrow realm of experience. cats in Atlanta and with rare exception, only So naturally questions only have one see LIOC members at conventions. The answer, black or white, like a cat possessive election changed everything. I figured I had of its toy or food. better become more familiar about how the Some cat people have less of a predatory organization was run, the particular quali- instinct, and while defensive of their views ties of many other cats, and the interests of have elevated some of the more forceful people who cared for them, if I was going members to positions of a tin god in an to be of any help. effort to get along. As we know cats are ter- Generally I have found that most people ritorial and some species have wider ranges are doing the best they can with what they and therefore overlap others. Cats secure have and that their animal’s welfare comes their territory by spraying and other marks first. In fact I was amazed that a few were delightful to no one but their own kind. trying to do so much with very little. Some Cat people, particularly the tin gods, 1986: Fred Boyajian with cougar were trying to do more than what they were secure their territorial niche of expertise

42 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 bills the top ten of the LIOC hit parade. Not What is the solution? Lets start with a Lastly, be a little less hasty and more education, not animal welfare, not even more rational look at some of the underly- cautious before accepting at face value medical or legal issues. ing causes of member bashing. opinionated views on the reputation of oth- By the time the tin gods have sprayed First is selfishness. When we join LIOC, ers. Most I have found are just rumor, gos- everyone, there are very few left who think we want something, information, or a cat, sip, and gross distortions. Determine facts they are so wonderful either. For the lesser etc. But what we fail to recognize is that for yourself. Get all sides of an issue before predators who let themselves get run over this our organization and it is what we make making a judgment. Being a member of with opinion, hiding out in LIOC is hardly a it and if we want to just get without giving a LIOC is no implied stamp of approval safe place because we are so divided. When little in return, don’t look for help when either. It only means someone has sent in we stray and call on another trying desper- you’re in a jam. $15. Be careful, there is “good” and “bad” ately to get information on how to raise a A second cause might be some of our within any organization, government, and cat, we have to listen through a background personal business practices or lack of the institution but if you just accept other opin- of member bashing. same. When you apply to the government ions as your own, are lax in your financial Are we so afraid that if we band together for a permit, they want to know everything affairs, or think your needs are superior to and agree that it is a sign of weakness and before they act. It’s not just a phone call; others than you too will be caterwauling the that united we will fall in ruins and lose our there is paperwork involved. member-basher blues. credibility? Are all these divided stands Intolerance is another major source of Frankly I don’t like such tunes and won’t enhancing the species we profess to care irritation. How we fail to temper our own stand for it when others start to sing them in about? If I thought so I’d put all the cats perspective when interfacing with others my presence. We can overcome many together and let them solve their own prob- breeds polarities i.e. pet owners versus obstacles if we can de-emotionalize our- lems. commercial dealers, experts versus experts, selves and band together long enough to put Although it’s impossible to stop cats government versus everyone, the list is end- our energies, hearts, and minds into animal from spraying, it is possible to keep it to an less but the fact is most have legitimate welfare. Otherwise we will all be the losers acceptable level by reducing the buildup. Its concerns of their industry that need to be when the animals are all gone and we are time to get the Clorox and clean the LIOC dealt with rationally even if they differ with still bickering amongst ourselves. Remem- cage. ours. ber nobody’s purrrfect.

Animal Ambassadors 1988 This article was written by the head of the AZA Smithsonian zoo—he explains his philosophy of animals in zoos. Notice this purpose is the same as can be served by private individuals. Keeping animals in a zoo should he con- ambassadors representing the kingdom of sidered a sacred trust, not only for the ani- the wild to human society, I believe you mal themselves but for future generations will recognize their inestimable value to the of human beings as well. When these ani- animals belonging in the wild. mals are removed from the wild and placed Like all ambassadors, they in a zoo, we assume all control over their must represent their kind to a destinies. We control every detail of their now and different kind of coun- lives, what they eat, where they live, who try. They must represent animal will be their mates. We assume total respon- society in such a way that sibility for their health and safety. humans will respect, admire, But make no mistake. When an animal is understand, and treat them taken from the wild, it is removed from the decently. Because our animal mainstream of species life. In most ambassadors cannot speak, we instances, as far as species survival is con- who are privileged to work in cerned, that individual is lost just as surely the zoos serve as their inter- as if it had been killed by poachers, by nat- preters. This is the awesome ural predators or by starvation because its responsibility we in the zoo pro- Merry Christmas habitat was completely destroyed. How fession must continually bear. and a then can an animal in the zoo, while living a happy new year pleasant life, still contribute to the ongoing Dr. Theodore Reed species life? It may do so by reproducing its Director, National Zoological kind in the zoo, so that its offspring can not Park only go to other zoos but perhaps, someday, Smithsonian Institute hopefully, even be returned to the wild. If From A Zoo For All Seasons you think of the animals in the zoo as

43 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 “Nobody is Really Sure What Species They Are” 1989 Exotic cats are often successfully integrated into family life. Here’s a bunch of pictures of the kids. we hope to begin breeding servals next The total count in the house consists of ten year. We are also looking for a male com- domestic cats, one Siberian husky, two fer- panion for our female Geoffroys. The rets, one ocelot, one Geoffroys cat and three ocelot was our first exotic and is, without a servals. All of the exotics, with the excep- doubt, the king of the house. Although we tion of the ocelot, get along with everybody keep him separated when we are not home, in the house. We are all one big, totally con- he comes out every night and watches TV fused, happy family, although nobody is with the family. There is no question that really sure what species they are! The three the animals own the house and they are gra- servals are quite convinced that the husky is cious enough to allow us to stay there. In all their mother, similarity of the ears, I guess. honesty, we wouldn’t have it any other way. She, in return, is quite pleased to take them on as her own. With the male serval being Jeff and Scarlett only six months old (as of December 1988), Niverville, Manitoba Canada

Private Ownership: Upgrade from Threatened to Endangered 1990 Looking for that rare hobby-conservationist. The article about the undercover sting of on its illegal exotic population. Authori- a shooting ranch in Oklahoma prompts me ties claim that there are 25 legal cougar to write this. I spoke with Special Agent owners in their state and over 300 ille- Tom McRae in Oklahoma about these gal ones. Currently they have four in cougars. They were, according to him, three custody now, all confiscated from drug males, one unknown sex, and four females, dealers. two possibly pregnant. All cougars were Here in my state, Arkansas, I have declawed. Several more cougars had been dealing with three homeless already been shot. The USDI caught the cougars. One spayed five-year old hunters posing with their dead trophies. female has the misfortune of being The cougars were purchased at two auc- owned by people who are moving to tions, one in Missouri and one in Kansas. I Arizona and they will not take her with am sure the private owners’ whose personal them. After calling the other owners life changes promoted them to consign their they knew, and receiving a negative lifelong responsibility to an auction never answer, she has been placed in the cus- dreamed that their cougar would end up at a tody of Arkansas for Animals. They shooting ranch. have agreed to assume this couple’s I talked with LIOC member Ken Hetrick responsibility. Arkansans for Animals in Ohio, last October. He told me of an auc- and the Humane Society have raised 1989: Lynn Culver visits Tippi Hedren’s tion he attended where you could buy all enough money to build a cage for her. Shambala. Back in those days, Tippi the baby cougars you wanted (up to 20) for She will be flown to a Texas Exotic was charging $5.00 a head to have your $130 each. I asked about breeding adults, Animal Foundation south of Houston. photo with a cougar, leopard, lion, or he said they brought less. The other two cougars are personal tiger. They just had them on chains and The state of Michigan is cracking down friends of mine. I have watched them paraded all sorts of people by.

44 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 grow from kittens to the year-and-a-half ship is going to be a part of the answer and turn in direction. These people are why we they are now. Their owners divorced and not part of the problem, then we must face need private owners. They become com- the husband has decided that he can no the facts. We must educate, organize, and pletely involved with conservation, the wel- longer care for them. We have agreed to plan for the future. fare of wildlife and captive animals. They take them, only because I know them per- Experts are not born; they evolve from develop the dedication of a professional. sonally and feel they deserve a good home. trial and error, applied studies, dedication, They care. They serve. They educate them- Tonight, after transporting them to our facil- and hard work. New owners who adopt our selves and all who will listen. And someday ity, I feel sad that such well-behaved, inno- offspring end up one of three types: some after years of service, they may even be rec- cent cougars have to feel the pain of aban- are a mistake and will prove to be unsuit- ognized as an expert. And because some donment. We will do our best, though I able owners, others will take good care of private owners evolve to this point, we know this means less time for our five their charges but keep their interest in must defend our rights and encourage and cougars and more work and money to feed exotics limited to their single companion foster this noble attitude with all our com- them. feline. Ideally the breeder locates that spe- bined forces. If we are to survive and if private owner- cial someone whose life takes a dramatic —Lynn Culver How to Pill a Clouded 1991 Reminds me of that “how to pill a cat” email except Gemini only requires one step. By BeeJay Lester Gemini has suffered from a persistent tapeworm problem even though he is an indoor cat with only an occa- sional flea. He’s combed daily, especially his long, thick tail. I finally got two “Cestex” pills at $14.00 to worm him as the injectable Droncet wasn’t working. How do you get pills past those awesome canines? In sugar figs! I have a tree in the yard and he loves them. I froze some so I’d have them for future use, but Gemini opens the fridge door. One day he did so, got out the frozen figs and demolished them! I now tape the door closed. Gemini’s disposition is such that you can take meat out of his mouth, just don’t mess with his cottage cheese. He’ll “kill” to keep it, growling, hissing, and displaying those long canines! He also gets Nutrical daily, along with canned ZuPreem, egg yolk, some beef, and ground turkey. Whatta cat he is. Living the Good Life 1992 Yea, yea, yea. All privately owned tigers live in cramped cages... just like these?

Pictured here are felines owned by LIOC member and noted wildlife artist, Murray Killman. He sends his greet- ings from the Killman Zoo, Caledonia, Ontario. Murray reports that their tigers love the water, the lions do not.

45 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Exotic Cats as Pets 1993 Guest Editorial by George Stowers—20 years later and another generation debate the issues—George became president a few years later and was in office during the name change. I have noticed in recent issues of our interpretation. that the picture of a cat confined to a cage newsletter, several individuals have sug- Openness and honesty are vital if we are for its entire life, with little or no direct con- gested that photographs of exotic cats to maintain and or improve our credibility tact with its owner is definitely not an which are not in cages, are interacting and level of respect with the public. I’m image we want to project if we wish to directly with their owners, or in domestic sure it us clear to all of us that it is not retain the privilege of private ownership of settings should be avoided as they present unusual for cats kept by members, particu- exotic cats. the ‘wrong impression,’ or are ‘unprofes- larly the small to medium size species, to As for pursuit of a professional image, I sional.’ Similar objections have been stated spend a considerable amount of time out of understand the attraction of the label ‘pro- regarding the use of the word ‘pet’ when their cages in close contact with their own- fessional.’ However, in the context of pri- discussing exotic cats. Taken at face value, ers. That such owners wish to provide their vate ownership it seems to be the wrong these statements seem to indicate that we cats with the greatest amount of freedom focus. To be sure, we do have members should keep our cats locked in their cages practical, consistent with applicable regula- who have dedicated their lives to the study and avoid all unnecessary contact, or at tions and public safety, and can form close and husbandry of exotic cats. But I believe least attempt to convince the public that psychological bonds of mutual trust and most of us are at best enthusiastic amateurs such is the case. I cannot agree with either respect with their cats, does not sound to who pursue our love of exotic cats in the me like a ‘wrong impression’ to give the time left over from our true profession, be it public. To call animals living in such condi- doctor, homemaker, farmer, or engineer. I tions, particularly those which are not part believe our interest would be far better of a breeding program, anything but pets is served by efforts to be recognized for what absurd and can only cause the public to most of us truly are: responsible owners wonder what other aspects of private own- who are deeply concerned about the welfare ership we are misrepresenting. of our animals, public safety, species endan- I’m sure that most of us understand that germent, and regulatory compliance. There there are conditions under which continu- is no question that we must avoid creating ous confinement and minimal contact with an erroneous impression that ownership of humans is necessary. Zoos and conservation an exotic cats as a ‘pet’ is appropriate for programs aimed at the release of captive everyone who thinks they might want one bred animals to the wild are two obvious regardless of their situation or ability to examples. But it would be a mistake to adequately care for the animal. But we assume that as acceptable in all captive situ- should not be afraid to voice our belief that ations. captive bred, hand raised, exotic cats can be During the last year I have discussed the appropriate companions for conscientious pros and cons of private ownership of exot- individuals who are willing and able to ic cats with several hundred individuals on make the significant commitment of the Gayle Schaecher with Jackie Van- a computer network called Prodigy. As a time, effort, and resources that responsible derwall’s clouded leopard, Kasi result of these discussions I can assure you ownership demands. Kira and TJ 1994 A comparison of two species. By Nanette McGann it’s just that she keeps checking. cat I could cuddle, but that is really not Kira, the caracal, came to live with me I live in a small, two bedroom, one bath Kira’s bag. She occasionally allows me an when she was nine weeks old. She’s now townhouse. I turned a bedroom into my hour to stretch out alongside or on top of 14 months. I could not wait any longer for “cat enclosure” for my intended one cat. me for some extended scratching and the baby serval I had originally planned on The room is where the two now stay when stroking. I must admit that this is a really getting. Kira was really not my first cara- mom’s not home or when they insist on special time. It seems as though she is cal—but that is a longer story. She was bouncing off walls in the living room and I enjoying this but I know that she is only smart as a whip, but has always had an atti- am not in the mood. Mostly when I’m doing it for me. She is not the cat I planned tude and her own agenda. She loves her home, the cats are out. Kira loves to watch on but she is the cat I got and I love her to “mom” and now her “baby boy” but she TV, but less now that she has TJ. Her pieces. has always pushed for her own way when- favorite is the Discovery Channel and the TJ at 13 weeks in one of his favorite ever she wants it. I still win, sometimes— animal programs at that. I had so wanted a places—on Kira’s back with her ear in his

46 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 mouth At least it was until this photo was snapped. TJ was born at Jean Hatfield’s. TJ’s real mom belongs to a friend of mine. Fourth of July weekend I saw my friend and he told me I should come see the nine week-old baby serval he had at home. I, of course, knew better than to look at a baby serval, so I said “No!” So, naturally, later that night TJ was at my house temporarily until he was sold or Kira killed him. From the very first moment they were together, it was obvious that this was true love. She would talk to him and they chased each other, TJ coming to me when things got a bit rough. I would scold Kira when she appeared to have him by the throat “Don’t kill the baby!” She would stop immediately and look at me as if to say, “What is your problem? You see any blood?” TJ continues to be “wet” across his no matter, all is wonderful. of this and he feels the same way about any throat. His favorite part of Kira appears to TJ, of course, is the cat I’d planned on in human. He climbs right up and looks a new be her left ear. He gets on her back and the first place. I knew that I would keep him person right in the face, maybe even bites the ear. They really have fun together. as soon as Kira did not kill him and he let purring and licking in the process. So, now I admit the first time I put them together me know that he adored me too. Snuggles, I have two babies as different as day and without my being there concerned me, but kisses and such sweetness. He still has all night. More work and more delight. Cat-fishing 1995 (or how to un-hook a jag) I attempted to get Pepé Le Pew, our 340 and tried to cut off the hooks, he would jerk around the hook. A week later we went to pound black jaguar to write this story, but back and that, of course, hurt. Poor Pepé, St. Louis for my eye surgery. My buddy fed he keeps chewing up the pencils, so I’ll he’s now a hurt and confused jaguar. He Pepé while we were gone. When we got have to tell it from my perspective. knew, I feel, that I was trying to help him home I called Jay and asked him how he’d We live on the shore of the Lake of the however and I finally managed to cut the gotten the hook out? Of course Jay never Ozarks in Missouri. One November eye holding the dangling bottom fishhooks. saw the hooks - like the vet said, ten days evening around Thanksgiving, I called Pepé Good, now at least he couldn’t hook me and they were gone with no trace of any in for his dinner. As evidenced by his or himself further. But, the lure was still injury to his lip. weight, you don’t have to call him twice. hanging out of his mouth and he was get- Needless to say, Pepé’s beach is thor- When he came in on the run as usual, I saw ting pretty tired of this hold still game. oughly checked every time the lake comes and heard something in his mouth - it was a I decided to go for the shank of the up. One hooked Jag-cat fish in a lifetime is bass fishing lure. hooks on top of his lip and cut them as the enough for me. The double front hooks were embedded barbs would not let me extract the hook —J.B. Anderson in his lower lip with the back hooks flailing from his lip. With a deep breath, I put my about. He was shaking his head and rattling arm in his mouth and cut the stainless steel the line - what if he hooked his paw? Or shank with a rush of adrenaline and a hooked the cage, or hooked me? The top mighty squeeze. hooks were buried to the shank of the hook, Now, we had only the sharp cut-off but I realized I had to get the bottom hook shank of the hook projecting out over his cut off before they got caught. lip. I knew he could drink and eat even My pinchers were for two hands, so I though it would hurt if he should happen to sent my wife Reva to the neighbors’ for hit it. some diagonal cutters (dikes). In the mean- Our people doctor said it would be there time I had dropped his gate and he was like a stainless steel stitch forever; the vet drinking from his concrete water bucket said the it would move out in ten days. with the lure hanging down. I took the dikes Pepé’s lip didn’t bleed and seemed to heal

47 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 President’s Perspective 1996 Again a cat owner doing stupid things. By Barbara Wilton 5. “was I supposed to declaw it?” sense. Mr. Raber apparently didn’t learn I felt the article Ready-Action Speaks 6. odor anything from having his hand broken in Louder than Words in the March/April Of the eight cougars we have adopted, three places trying to control Cougar on a newsletter did not represent the majority of two we were able to use in our edu- cougars in captivity. I know it sounds very cational program. However, when idealistic to walk your cat through malls, Whiskers reached 180 pounds, he have picture taking sessions with the public, was retired. On more than one occa- and take in the local marina on the way to a sion one of the cats would single out film shoot, but realistically, that is not the someone in the audience and take a way things are. sudden and intense dislike to that Having been involved for the past twen- individual. Once we had to ask a ty-plus years in the rescue or salvation of young man to leave the exhibit. We several “pet” cougars, Herb and I are well did have control of the cat but it is aware of the pitfalls that bring the cats to impossible to control people. us—generally through the local authorities Taking on the care of a cougar, or any place in the northwest. Some of the any large cat, is a big responsibility. more common complaints are: I’m afraid I have to disagree with 1. walking the cougar around town. Mr. Raber on his statement “I hope 2. improper caging or security that we conveyed that being wild is 3. no permits learned and also in the eyes of the behold- walk. Does he really think he could control 4. illegal er.” We try to teach people that these are a 240 pound cat under adverse conditions? A. in city limits wild animals with animal instincts. They Will he be so smug when he says, “because B. improper or no papers (such as just happen to have been born in captivity. he wanted to?” The chances of an individ- licensed USDA breeder) They still have natural instincts of self- ual, young or old, being hurt is always pre- Previous owner complaints: preservation. sent. Lawsuits and bad publicity are 1. children in the home It was an interesting and very readable extremely detrimental to all of us wishing 2. don’t have room for a “big cat”; he article, but please folks, unless you have 24 private ownership of exotics. was cute when we bought him. hours a day for 15-20 years to devote to a By the way, Mr. Raber is not an LIOC 3. destroying house or furniture project like this, let’s use a little common member. 4. can’t afford to buy food A Word of Thanks 1997 This 50th anniversary retrospective issue would not be possible without Sharon Roe’s idea.

To Sharon Roe, for the concept, for finding, borrowing, and copying a complete set of newsletters to be donated to the club and to Carin Carmichael who graciously (and with held breath, I’m sure) parted with her collection temporarily, and to Jean Torland and Justin Roe who helped assemble and index the sets. Note: There is no evidence that an index was ever made. Volunteers? Wildlife on Easy Street 1998 Carol Baskin, a former private owner, broker, and breeder—now turned sanctuary owner—was once an active member of LIOC and attended the Florida 1997 convention. She submitted four articles for publication—one on her facility being visited by British media and receiving a very bad review, one on her cougar escape and how the media blew it out of proportion, one on how to manage stress, and this one on a cougar that chewed his harness and needed surgery. By Carole Lewis stainless steel table. The life of one of the was healthy and mischievous, the next he It has been four heart wrenching hours sweetest little cougars ever to chirp his way wasn’t eating and by the third day he had a that the little darling of Easy Street has been into my heart lays motionless before me feeding tube installed in his esophagus and in surgery. We are all praying, all waiting and I feel helpless. He had been so sick was having series of shots throughout the breathlessly for word as two veterinarians with a nondescript virus that I had thought day and night to battle the infection and and a staff of technicians hover around the surely would cost him his life. One day he slow the vomiting. Every day he looked 48 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 worse instead of better. X-rays had been overcome the virus much more quickly and negative, blood tests weren’t of much more had been back to running and romping for help, and every day he was hating the shots about a week, when I finally felt Fleetwood more and more. Finally he took a turn for was ready to go back into the same cage the better and began eating on his own. We with her. He walked to his new pen that had removed the feeding tube and were thrilled just been built while he was sick. It was to be on the road to recovery. over 1200 square feet of trees and vines and Again he stopped eating. He was rushed bushes and Enya! He had the greatest time. back to the vet and the feeding tube was About six hours later one of the workers reinstalled. We were scolded by our vet for called me and said she thought Fleetwood removing the first tube because each inser- was choking. He was crying and gagging, tion would cause scarring that could lead to but I couldn’t see anything in his mouth or constriction. Again all of the shots, the pills, lodged in his throat. Again he was rushed the bags and bags of fluids that he had to back to the vet. endure. We were more cautious as he Many X-rays later with no results the vet improved this time and left the tube in place decided to open him up and in addition to long after he was back to eating like his old peritonitis, they discover that his intestines self. Aggressive isn’t even descriptive are laced and permeated with purple nylon enough to convey the flying food when he and worst of it is a rupture where the har- would attack the plate. He had always been ness buckle he has swallowed has burst that way since arriving here. through the intestinal wall, causing massive Before he got sick, Fleetwood and his internal bleeding. For hours they cut away 3 sister Enya were out of their cages more at the tangle of ⁄4 inch nylon that has frayed than they were in them. They spent many and spread like a cancer through his little them, but my cats are so docile it has never nights a week with cabin guests and were gut. I have raised hundreds of cats and been a big deal. It is another case though always out doing events, riding in the car or never had I seen one chew its harness off. I where convenience has compromised safe- walking around the yard. I left them suited had never seen Fleetwood even seem to ty. What if there were a loud car backfire or up in their harnesses most of the time. It notice that his wasn’t a part of him. The day some other unexpected thing that would was easy to hook them up, but they spent so I found the purple harness all chewed up, I cause a well-mannered cat to bolt? I could much time on the go, it was more conve- just assumed that Enya had helped him out be agonizing over a car and cat collision nient to leave them on. They got so much of it. I didn’t notice the buckle was missing right now. The plastic quick connect did not handling and petting by so many people in as I threw away the slobbery remains. I show on the X-ray when he first got sick, the course of the day that I never worried have no one to blame but myself. nor now. Had he swallowed a metal buckle, about the harness getting too tight or rub- I could have insisted that every time they we would have spotted it weeks before. bing the skin. went anywhere the harnesses would imme- This also goes to show that cats who will Now I was sure he was over this insidi- diately come off when they returned. It spit out perfectly good food will swallow ous virus that has struck almost every would not have taken more than a few sec- things like harnesses, toys, sticks, rocks and cougar here. I hadn’t lost any of them to it, onds to safeguard him against the pain and you name it and we have pulled it out of a but it had been borderline in almost every the danger he now faces. The style of har- cat’s stomach. You can never be too careful case before they got better. These two cubs ness I use has the plastic quick connects nor too paranoid when you are dealing with were only six months old when it hit them because they are so much more convenient an exotic cat. I am thankful that I didn’t and there were several nights in the worst of than the traditional metal buckle. They real- have to learn this lesson at the cost of this it that I would get up fully expecting them ly aren’t safe. I’ve had a lot of cats unsnap dear one’s life. to be dead. Now it was over. Enya had Norman’s Extraordinary Tale 1999 Could the lack of a simple diagnosis lead to the death of your cat? By Nancy Ward tarnish the integrity of those keeping exotic tragedy. I was reading your Nov/Dec 1998 I used to publish a magazine called the species due to misinformation fed to them issue and I noticed an article in there on Canadian Conservationist’s Journal. It was by opposing animal rights extremists. We winterizing animal dens using pine or cedar a small publication geared to sharing infor- had several victories against these groups shavings and I felt compelled to write to mation and education amongst private zoo and prevented some townships from ban- you to share my tragedy which involved owners and keepers of exotic animals. The ning exotic animals within their jurisdic- using pine shavings with the hope it may “Journal” was also frequently involved in tion. spare somebody else the pain I experienced. providing factual information to the Cana- I gave up producing the journal in Janu- I have kept various species of exotic dian press who unfortunately often would ary of 1998 primarily due to a personal felines and other exotic animals including

49 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 primates, a wolf and numerous parrots at come into the house if he chose to come in. the side of his body he was sleeping on, my sanctuary, Lilac Grove, for the past nine I also decided to get him a mate. from the side of his face right down his tail. years now. In the summer of 1997 I purchased a I immediately called my vet who prescribed In the fall of 1993 I adopted a ten-hour female cub for Norman for his fourth birth- antibiotics. I suggested Norman might be old male lion cub. I named him Norman. day. I named her Madison and, unlike Nor- allergic to the shavings but my vet insisted From the beginning Norman was very dif- man, she was full of mischief and energy. he couldn’t be as pine shavings were often ferent from other big cats I had bottle fed in Norm tolerated her and was always careful used as animal bedding. that he seemed to go weak if he was not fed not to hurt her (as he had been raised I remembered back to a time when I had every one and a half to two hours. Other around my Yorkies.) He was always very fed Norm turkeys from a local turkey farm cubs I had bottle raised, I fed every four good around animals much smaller then and he had broken out into a similar rash hours. In the wild, as we all know, lionesses himself even when they tugged at his mane around his mouth and on his tongue. I often leave their young for up to 48 hours and pestered him.) I enjoyed watching her stopped feeding the turkeys and Norm’s when they are off hunting. With that in pester him to play mind, I consulted my veterinarian thinking with her and thought Norman might be hypoglycemic. My vet, perhaps she would however felt Norman’s problem probably help him become stemmed from getting a poor start since he more independent. did not nurse on his mother and recom- But to my surprise, mended I put him on antibiotics. Norman never really Norman’s condition persisted throughout took an interest in her his cubhood and he was also constantly and was still very plagued with ear infections that would be much an over grown very slow to heal. Because of this, Norman baby attached to me. and I became very close. He would not eat I also noticed he unless I hand fed him, and was very cow- would get possessive ardly and unsure of himself unless I was of me if she tried to with him. For example, on one occasion my take my attention 86 year old great aunt, who is barely 4' 1" from him which was tall, scared him so badly by peeking at him something he had through the patio doors, that he ran upstairs never done with any and tried to get under my bed. He was three of the other animals including other big cats condition improved dramatically within a years old, 400 plus pounds at the time, but I had raised while he was growing up. few days. The situation with the shavings would only come back out once I went up One day, when Madison was about five was so similar I called the farmer to ask to reassure him. Because of this and his months old, she decided she was going to him about the substrate he used to maintain dependence on me, Norman became more steal Norman’s blanket out from under him his turkeys and he informed me he used of a child to me then a pet. So, in spite the as he lay sleeping in my room. For lack of pine shavings. I immediately removed the criticism from all the “experts” who pro- better words to describe what happened pine shavings from Norman’s den. But after claimed he would surely kill me once he next, all hell broke loose. In my panic, I being on the shavings for less then two reached two years of age, I continued to broke the cardinal rule of breaking up a complete days Norman’s body was riddled allow him to live in my home with me fight between two animals, but I wasn’t in sores and he was licking himself raw. including sleeping on my bed with me at thinking of anything but keeping them from I followed the vet’s advice and put him night. hurting each other. I got between them and on the antibiotics but a month went by and I By the time Norman was four years old discharged a small fire extinguisher. True to saw no improvement. So I called members he was still as gentle as ever and most of his nature, Norman backed off (testament of LIOC who I greatly respect for their the naysayers who had taken the time to that he was a very gentle lion as any other knowledge and expertise. They agreed visit my facility, were now convinced that would have surely killed me for my stupidi- some exotic cats could be allergic to pine he was indeed a very special animal. Meet- ty) and I was able to separate them. From shavings and graciously tried to help me to ing Norman convinced them that animals that point on, Norman hated Madison, so I determine how to treat Norman’s sores can be as ‘individual’ in temperament as put him outside during the day in his yard which were getting worse by the day as he humans can be. Everybody who met him as she was still too small to be left outside would not stop licking them. They suggest- loved him including my neighbors who at and by then it was fall. ed numerous things including homeopathic first were terrified to have him in the vicini- I filled his den with pine shavings remedies to speed up his healing. I ran their ty. But my house was getting too small for instead of straw thinking the pine would be suggestions by my vet, however he had lit- him to move around comfortably so I more comfortable for him to lay on as he tle faith in homeopathic medicine and decided to build him a comfortable enclo- was used to sleeping on a bed. But, within decided Norman needed more antibiotics. I sure of his own where he would have space 48 hours of Norm sleeping on pine shav- followed his advice as this man had been to be a lion but would still always be wel- ings, he broke out in a terrible rash along my vet for eight years but was growing

50 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 3—July/August 2006 skeptical because by this point, Norman be harming him as he explained some ing him. Had I done that, Norman might had been on antibiotics three times and still antibiotics taken over a prolonged period of still be here today touching the lives of all would not heal. After another week of see- time can be toxic. I continued to feed Nor- the people who met him with his enormous ing no improvement and Norman looking man like I had when he was a cub and the heart and gentle nature. But feeling sorry worse then ever, I decided to go with the next morning when I woke up he was sit- for myself isn’t helping me get over this homeopathic approach of bathing his sores ting up looking at me. I cuddled him for a and I feel the only way to get over this is to four times daily in aloe and vitamin E while thinking he was over the worst of it try to help someone else who might be cream to soothe the itching as well as and after a while went down to the fridge to going through the same thing. This is why I putting on a topical antiseptic cream to pre- get his Christmas present, a huge roast. He decided to come forward to share this with vent infection. This seemed to improve rubbed his head on my head like he always the members of LIOC. his condition a little bit and made him more did when I brought him something but I can only pray Norman’s death will not comfortable, but by then he was losing instead of waiting for me to cut it up for be in vain and that this experience might weight as well. I increased his food intake him (he liked me to do that) he took the help save the life of another. Please tell your to double his normal ration and supple- roast from me, laid back down and put his members if they use pine shavings or any mented him with a high calorie protein head on it. He just laid there looking at me. type of substrate as bedding in their ani- shake which included Esbilac, yogurt, a I figured he was still worn out so I laid mal’s den to make absolutely sure the ani- dozen eggs, ground beef, a multi vitamin, down beside him and talked to him like I mal is not allergic to it, especially if the ani- amino, extra vitamin C, extra B vitamins, did when he was sick as a baby. We stayed mal has a tendency towards being sickly (a and a taurine capsule. This increased his like that all afternoon and as he licked my weak immune system or other allergies) or appetite dramatically (he went from eating head, I convinced myself he was going to has any of the symptoms I described that 15 pounds of meat a day—when he was be all right. plagued my Norman. Had I done that, I healthy—to 35 plus) but was still losing In hindsight he was trying to say good- may have been able to keep Norman’s dia- weight, especially in his hind quarters. He bye to me. My friend called me later that betes in check with just good nutrition at did not have worms as he had been wormed day to tell me he had found a website post- regular intervals (as I had unknowingly regularly. I went back to feeding him every ed by Cornell University that described controlled it all his life by feeding him sev- two hours like I had when he was a cub, (I feline diabetes and that Norman had all the eral meals a day) and lots of TLC. Feline had been feeding him three times a day symptoms. Norman had not healed in spite diabetes does not have to end in the death since he was weaned at 18 months of age, of being on all those antibiotics because he of the cat. It can be maintained through diet as he did not do well on one feeding a day) was diabetic. But, sadly, we discovered this and, if necessary, insulin. and after two weeks he seemed to have too late. Norman went into more energy and appeared to be healing, shock and died in my arms although very slowly. minutes after I got off the I continued to bathe his sores for the next phone. two weeks after those changes but was very Norman was unlike any frustrated that his sores were still very raw, lion I had ever met and he so I consulted my vet again but he was still extended the gentleness and convinced Norman’s problem was just love he showed to me to “dermatitis” aggravated by his licking. everyone who met him. The Again he prescribed antibiotics and sug- day he died, Christmas day, a gested that the loss of weight in spite his part of me died too as he was increased appetite was from stress associat- my motivation for doing ed with being ill. He said he would call to practically everything I was check on Norman again in a few days. I involved with in regards to stayed with Norman coaxing him to eat to conservation. He was every- keep his strength up. But his condition dra- thing to me and no matter how many other Norman was not obese; he was on the matically worsened after less than 24 hours animals I may have, there will never be small side compared to his brother and his on the fourth course of antibiotics. another Norman. father. I was told by the zoo I got Norman My friend, who is a medical doctor and I’ve not talked about this publicly and from that Norman’s mother died of an often volunteers at my sanctuary, got on the isolated myself from the animal community unknown illness after being on antibiotics phone to try to locate another vet who including giving up my journal and placing for a prolonged period of time as well. Nor- might be able to give us some insight as to many of my other animals because I man’s diet consisted of beef, goat, deer, what was ailing Norman. He felt this was couldn’t bear to talk about it and because of chicken backs and necks, turkey necks and definitely much more than an allergic reac- the loss and guilt I feel that I followed my drum sticks, and pork hocks or a pork roast tion to the shavings due to Norman’s med- former vet’s advice blindly and did not push as a treat. (He loved pork.) Occasionally he ical history and was concerned that the him harder to look beyond Norman’s symp- would get a bowl of Esbilac with eggs antibiotics had not helped and may in fact toms to determine what was really bother- when he wasn’t feeling well.

51 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 LIOC Adopts Big Cat Guidelines 2000Passed at the 1999 convention and published in the January 2000 issue—LIOC board adopts Big Cat Guide- lines, a year ahead of the USDA policy on big cats.

With the abundance of big cats represented in LIOC’s membership and the easy LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. availability of these large predators, it was asked that the board of directors draft a Big Cat Guidelines statement explaining our organization’s LIOC Endangered Species Conser- these species (hybrids). LIOC further position on ownership of these magnificent vation Federation, Inc. (LIOC) supports encourages all breeders and sellers of felines. A draft of this statement was pre- responsible ownership of all 38 current- such felidae to assure themselves prior sented to the membership at the 1999 con- ly recognized species of non-domestic to transfer of ownership, that a potential vention. The board particularly wanted the feline, in keeping with sound animal owner has the experience, training, and input of those caring for the large cats, husbandry practices and federal, state, facilities needed to provide proper many of whom acquired them as their first and local government regulations. Suc- housing and care in legal, stable, and exotic. The vast majority of those present cessful management of these wild ani- secure circumstances. Acceptance of were in favor of the sentiment contained in mals and its inherent risk to the public, the responsibility for potential conse- the draft but felt some fine-tuning in word- owners, handlers, and cats, necessi- quences of non-domestic feline hus- ing was needed. A committee was formed tates strong motivation and plentiful bandry should be undertaken only by to accomplish this. It must be recognized resources, both financial and emotional. informed individuals. Further, the dedi- that while LIOC promotes responsible cap- These requirements increase propor- cation and discipline needed to acquire tive husbandry of wild/exotic felines, we tionately to the size of the cat. Accord- as much pertinent information as possi- also believe that just as captive husbandry ingly, LIOC neither recommends nor ble, before acquiring a big cat, is even of a wild/exotic feline is not for everyone, encourages inexperienced individuals’ more imperative. LIOC is aware that not every specie is appropriate for every acquisition of species which can some inexperienced owners are cur- potential owner. We all know that caring for achieve or exceed an adult weight of rently in possession of cats which are or an exotic requires more dedication and 100 lbs. Felines in this category include will be 100 lbs. and urges anyone in this effort if it is done properly than one expects lions, tigers, jaguars, all species of leop- position to take advantage of the assis- of a typical pet. To clarify this, the board ard, cougars, and resultant offspring tance, advice, and moral encourage- has adopted the Big Cat Guidelines. from the inter-breeding between any of ment this organization can provide.

Cat Census 2001 When the club was young, nearly all the cats were ocelots and margays. Due to the Endangered Species Act, almost all of those cats have been wiped out, now replaced by other species.

Small Cats Canadian Lynx ...... 59 Leopard ...... 40 Asian Golden Cat ...... 1 Siberian Lynx ...... 18 Clouded Leopard ...... 6 Black Footed Cat ...... 3 Eurasian Lynx ...... 23 Amur Leopard ...... 4 Bobcat ...... 137 Margay ...... 5 Snow Leopard ...... 21 Caracal ...... 85 Ocelot ...... 37 Lion ...... 64 Cougar ...... 167 Oncilla ...... 3 Tiger ...... 191 European Wild Cat ...... 3 Pallas’s Cat ...... 5 Fishing Cat ...... 14 Rusty Spotted Cat ...... 4 Hybrid Cats Geoffrey Cat ...... 36 Sand Cat ...... 4 Bengal (Leopard Cat/Dom)115 Gordon Cat ...... 3 Serval ...... 203 Safari (Geoffrey/Dom) . . . . .5 Indian Desert Cat ...... 5 Chausie (Jungle Cat/Dom) 20 Jaguarundi ...... 4 Big Cats Savannah (Serval/Dom) . .52 Jungle Cat ...... 31 Cheetah ...... 9 Bobcat/Lynx ...... 5 Leopard Cat ...... 12 Jaguar ...... 13 Caraval (Serval/Caracal) . . .7 Liger (Lion/Tiger) ...... 3

52 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 The Name Change Controversy 2002Following the announcement of the results of vote on the two constitutional amendments, a number of concerns were raised by various individuals regarding perceived voting irregularities. The following is intended to summarize these issues and the Board of Directors’ response to them for the membership. In 2002 a new tabulation process was ity of the members of the board voted in office, to retain the ballots against possible adopted by the BoD and used for the first opposition to the motion. Some of the con- future need. After the board received this time in the vote on the constitutional siderations expressed by board members written statement, Mr. Berry was instructed amendments. In the past the votes were sent which appear to have contributed to the to send the ballots to our Secretary/Treasur- to a Life Director to be opened and counted defeat of the motion included the following: er. with the assistance of another Life Director. The Director Membership Services stat- On September 9, Life Directors John It was clear from the start that the votes on ed that to the best of her knowledge and Perry and Shirley Wagner requested a spe- the two proposed constitutional amend- belief that the list of members she provided cial BoD meeting to consider a series of ments were going to be very controversial to J.B. Anderson was valid and no matter what the results were. In order to consistent with past practice. improve voter confidence in the results of Robert’s Rules gives the Mem- this and all future membership votes, the bership Director final say in BoD established a policy that a CPA who is who is a member and who is not involved in our organization (an inde- not. pendent auditor) would open and tally the The BoD has no way of veri- ballots on issues presented to the member- fying if any couple with a family ship for a vote. The BoD selected Life membership is legally married. Director J.B. Anderson to receive the votes Even if there were a few individ- and asked that he obtain the services of a uals on the list provide to J.B. local CPA to open the votes in J.B.’s pres- who should not have been, there ence. J.B. would then compare the names is no reason to believe the pro- on each ballot to a list of members provided portion in which they support- by our Director Membership Services ed/opposed the name change Leann Montgomery. J.B. would then advise would have been any different LIOC member Dr. Terry Moore and snow leop- the CPA if the individual was a member that the rest of those who voted ard, Cato. Cato lives at the Survival Trust and therefore qualified to vote. The CPA and therefore would have had no Facility near London, England. would then record the results of all valid effect on the results. votes and report the final results to the J.B. provided a logical reason for seven motions, the effect of which would BoD. destroying the votes after the tally—to pre- be to require a new vote on the two consti- After the results were reported, concerns serve voter confidentially on these emotion- tutional amendments and establish a new were expressed by some individuals on al amendments. voting policy. September 23, after careful three issues. Some couples with family On or about August 26, Life Director consideration over a period of two weeks, memberships (providing two votes), Carin Sousa sent a personal letter to the the BoD voted not to approve these although living in the same household, may membership expressing her concerns motions. not be legally married. Some individuals regarding the vote on the constitutional Recently I have heard it alleged by a few whose membership had recently expired amendments, alleging misconduct by the individuals that the LIOC-ESCF has been may have been included on the list of mem- BoD, and speculating for the first time that “hijacked” by individuals who wish to back bers eligible to vote. Concern was also an independent auditor (CPA) had not been away from support of individual private expressed regarding a statement made by involved in counting the ballots. ownership. I wish to state clearly and J.B. Anderson that the CPA had destroyed A written statement was subsequently unequivocally, that to the best of my knowl- the ballots after counting them, and as a provided to the BoD by an accountant, Mr. edge and belief, each and every member of result were not available to verify the John Berry, stating the following: 1) He had the Board of Directors of the Feline Conser- results. counted the votes, assisted by J.B. Ander- vation Federation is committed to doing During the BoD meeting at convention son, who verified voter eligibly using a everything in their power to preserve last August, Life Director Carin Sousa membership list; 2) That he (Mr. Berry) is a responsible private captive husbandry, as requested an executive session and then business accountant but not a CPA; 3) That defined in our Code of Conduct in all its made a motion to set aside the vote on the after the votes had been counted J.B. had varied forms. constitutional amendments due to voting suggested he destroy the votes in order to George N. Stowers irregularities and call another vote. The preserve voter confidentially, but that he President, BoD debated the merits of the issues raised (Mr. Berry) had decided, after J.B. left his Feline Conservation Federation by Carin at length, but in the end the major-

53 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Setting the Record Straight: The History of Our Name 2003There was an extremely emotional several month period that followed the passage of the constitutional amendment to change the name of the organization to Feline Conservation Federation. In an effort to try to get the name change controversy behind us forever, the following detailed history of the name was reprinted in the March/April issue. The account below is abridged.

Feline Conservation Federation, LIOC Nov/Dec 1978 Annual executive board meeting minutes: “In order to obtain our Endangered Species Conservation Federa- meeting minutes: “The major amount of non-profit mailing permits, president Ken tion and the Long Island Ocelot Club are all discussion involved getting the legal fund Hatfield advised that the masthead of the the same organization, founded by Cather- set up as a non-profit entity so that funds newsletter would need to be changed to ine Cisin, operated continuously since could generate non-taxable interest. A show that name of the non-profit corpora- 1957. means of doing this was agreed upon which tion under which were are registered i.e. In January 1957, Catherine Cisin pub- would set up this “new” non-profit organi- LIOC Endangered Species Conservation lished the first issue of the Long Island zation and have it incorporated. The organi- Federation. He explained that in the future Ocelot Club newsletter: Members quickly zation will have the same officers as LIOC. this will appear on all newsletters in order began to refer to the club as both LIOC and Ken Hatfield was instructed to work with that we may take advantage of our non- L.I.O.C. In 1974 the club structure was for- an accountant in his locale to pursue this. profit status.” For the first time ever, the malized with a constitution and by-laws. The organization would have to bear a dif- words LIOC Endangered Species Conser- Officers were called LIOC officers. Branch- ferent name than the club’s and the follow- vation Federation in very small type began es were referred to as LIOC branches. The ing were selected (First most popular: to run concurrently with the very large and club was most commonly referred to as LIOC Endangered Species Conservation familiar Long Island Ocelot Club LIOC. In her acceptance letter for the posi- Federation.) Formation of this entity will NEWSLETTER on the cover of the bi- tion of newsletter editor, published in a Jan- allow gifts, grants, etc., to be tax deductible monthly publication. uary 1974 issue, Shirley Treaner (now and will allow the mailing of our newsletter July/Aug 1983 General membership Shirley Wagner) used both L.I.O.C. and at greatly reduced rates. It will also allow meeting minutes: Ken reported that LIOC LIOC abbreviations, as well as the club’s the fund to generate non-taxable income i.e. Endangered Species Conservation Federa- full name, Long Island Ocelot Club. interest from savings, certificates, etc. It tion, Inc., has completed its three years as a Sept/Oct 1975 Annual executive board was noted that the cost of setting up such an probationary non-profit organization and is meeting minutes broached this question: entity would be offset in all likelihood by now confirmed as such.” Inside the front Should we change the name of the club? It such interest earned the first year.” cover is the familiar seal that states the has been argued that LIOC does not depict Sept/Oct 1979 Annual executive board newsletter is: “published bi-monthly by the the worldwide membership nor the various meeting minutes: “Papers for the non-profit Long Island Ocelot Club. Reproduction of felines represented by the club. It has been corporation were passed around and dis- the material in this newsletter may not be suggested that such a name change would cussed. The name of this corporation will made without written permission of the be beneficial in establishing more credibili- be LIOC (initials only) Endangered Species authors and/or the copyright owner, LIOC.” ty within zoological circles. The board felt Conservation Federation, Inc.” July/Aug 1984 For the first time, beneath that a change in the logo would be suffi- Sept/Oct 1980 Annual executive board the familiar Long Island Ocelot Club Inter- cient to depict our international member- meeting minutes: “Ken elaborated on filing national artwork seal are the words: “Pub- ship. (Amagansett, NY has been omitted for the non-profit corporation status (on lished bi-monthly by the LIOC Endangered and “International” placed in its stead.) It July 9, 1980), and applying for an IRS tax Species Conservation Federation, Inc. was unanimous that we do not change our ID number as a 501(c)3. Discussed what Reproduction of the material in this name and let our actions of the past and the would qualify as donations and deduc- newsletter may not be made without written future speak for us instead. The board asked tions.” permission of the authors and/or the copy- president, Ken Hatfield to investigate fur- July/Aug 1981 - Annual executive board right owner, LIOC.” ther non-profit incorporation. meeting minutes: “Jackie Vanderwall (sec- Sept/Oct 1984 Annual executive board July/Aug 1977 Annual executive board retary/treasurer) will change the name of meeting minutes: “John Perry brought up meeting minutes: “a CPA advised the club the bank account and club forms to read the apparent confusion among the general would not qualify for a non-profit status Long Island Ocelot Club, subsidiary of the public with regards to LIOC’s new name. It due to lack of files.” LIOC Endangered Species Conservation was suggested that perhaps just using Nov/Dec 1978 Annual general member- Federation, Inc. She will issue receipts for ‘LIOC’ on letterhead would remove some ship meeting minutes: “As in years past, the all donations. This was necessitated by our of this confusion.” possibility of changing the name of our newly acquired non-profit status. (A new Set/Oct 1986 Annual executive board organization was approached. After mini- name was needed due to technical rea- meeting minutes: The board voted to leave mal discussion, it was vetoed by those sons.)” the formal title LIOC Endangered Species members attending.” Nov/Dec 1981 Annual executive board Conservation Federation, Inc. as it stands.

54 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Beneath the minutes report, typed in one- dered the FCF BoD and the voting process, solving the KHMSF Corporation. He had inch letters is the statement “L.I.O.C. but it also violated the executive session acted without FCF board knowledge or NEEDS YOU! Please contribute pictures called by Carin. written approval, just one day after being and stories”. September 2002 Life Directors John placed on disciplinary suspension by the Sept/Oct 1987 marks the first time the Perry and Shirley Wagner called a special FCF board of directors. Long Island Ocelot Club name is missing meeting to set aside the vote results and In mid December 2002 at a special from the masthead of the newsletter, leav- have another vote due to the ballots being meeting, the FCF Board of Directors voted 2 ing only LIOC Endangered Species Con- counted by a corporate accountant instead the required ⁄3 majority to remove John servation Federation, Inc. on the cover. of a CPA. The majority of the board voted Perry as trustee of the Ken Hatfield Memo- Jan/Feb 1988 the familiar Long Island against their motion. rial Trust Fund and as Life Director of the Ocelot Club International artwork seal dis- In a mid-October 2002 BoD meeting, FCF for breach of fiduciary duty and viola- appears. In its place are the words LIOC vice president Robert Turner moved to reg- tions of the by-laws of the KHMSF and the Endangered Species Conservation Federa- ister Long Island Ocelot Club and Feline FCF. John stated to the FCF board of direction. Conservation Federation with the US tors that his intent was to donate the funds Mar/Apr 1999, on the inside page the Trademark and Patent Office. Life Direc- to the Florida Veterinary College and that editor identifies the organization as Long tors John Perry and Shirley Wagner object- an FCF benefactor would match the funds. Island Ocelot Club Endangered Species ed to the need for this motion. Other board At this special meeting the FCF board Conservation Federation. members explained to them that registration also approved a motion to hire legal council October 1999, 4th quarter board of would protect the ownership rights, history, to issue a cease and desist letter to this other directors meeting minutes - Life Director and continued use of Long Island Ocelot Long Island Ocelot Club’s officers and John Perry moved to propose a constitu- Club service mark identity. principals and intercede on behalf of our tional amendment to change the name of Two days later Jeanne Hall filed paper- members to prevent the approval of this the corporation to “LIOC Endangered Feli- work for a non-profit corporation in the other corporation’s Long Island Ocelot dae Conservation Federation.” Written state of WA called the Long Island Ocelot Club trademark application. All documen- comments from other BoD members partic- Club and applied for a trademark registra- tation pertinent to stopping this fraudulent ipating in this meeting follow: tion for this name. FCF Life Directors trademark application has been forwarded Life Director Carin Sousa: “When we Carin Sousa and John Perry serve as Life to our legal council. embraced LIOC Endangered Species Con- Directors of this other corporation and In January 2003, in a letter written to the servation Federation it was for incorpora- Shirley Wagner serves in the appointed FCF board of directors by the potential tion purposes only and we intended to con- position of consultant. benefactor, it was stated that they had indi- tinue the use of Long Island Ocelot Club.” On October 29, 2002 an attorney hired cated to the trustees of the KHMSF their Life Director Shirley Wagner: “After all by KHMSF treasurer John Perry, drew up desire and interest in donating the necessary these years we haven’t gotten folks used to papers for the dissolution of the Ken Hat- funds for the trust to reach $20,000 making LIOC ESCF instead of Long Island Ocelot field Memorial Scholarship Fund Corpora- it a perpetual fund at the Florida Veterinary Club... how many more years of confusion tion. University. They were still interested in pur- might this add?” In early November 2002, this other Long suing this idea, but this potential benefactor In March of 2002 a constitutional Island Ocelot Club mailed their newsletter wrote that they had never made a firm com- amendment was proposed by the member- to FCF members using the FCF member- mitment for such action and study by an ship to change the name of the corporation ship database without FCF board approval. accountant of their personal tax considera- to Feline Conservation Federation. In a Artwork and photos were reprinted from tions was still needed. break from the tradition of Shirley Wagner our early newsletters. This other corpora- In conclusion, the written records show and Carin Sousa counting the ballots, for tion stated the Long Island Ocelot Club that in 1980, when president Ken Hatfield the first time ever an outside accounting ceased to exist in 1982 thus giving them the filed for incorporation in the state of Flori- firm tallied the votes. The motion passed by right to claim the name. da, he did not intend to dissolve the club 2 the required ⁄3 majority of the voting mem- In late November 2002, five FCF general and in fact, filing did not change any of the bership. members filed a motion to the Board of following: officers in power, operating At the August 2002 annual convention, Directors to expel John, Shirley, and Carin structure, bylaws, constitution, membership in executive session, Life Director Carin for by-law violations, in accordance with roster, newsletter name, history time-line or Sousa contested this outside ballot counting by-law 8.4 of the Feline Conservation Fed- the founder. Incorporation also did not process. The board of directors voted eration. Shirley Wagner resigned from the change the ownership, history, and tradition against setting aside the vote. Two weeks Board of Directors and all appointed posi- of the Lotty award or continuation of Life later Carin mailed a letter to the entire tions in light of the charges. Membership benefits. Life members of the membership using the FCF database, which On December 9, 2002, John Perry, trea- Long Island Ocelot Club continue to this is in violation of a long-standing policy for- surer, of the KHMSF tried unsuccessfully day to receive complimentary memberships bidding use of membership information for to cash in a $9,400 certificate of deposit from the Feline Conservation Federation. personal reasons. Her letter not only slan- prior to its maturity in furtherance of dis-

55 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Las Vegas and FCF - what a wonderful experience! 2004Back to happy times, the Feline Conservation Federation convention in Las Vegas was a huge success. Here a new member shares her convention experience. Actually it was a great experience in all. at a time. The kid in me was tickled to I left with more questions than I started I can’t say if it met my expectations finally get to eat lunch at the Rainforest with but that was good as I didn’t even because I didn’t have a clue what to expect. Cafe. Never had cake that good before! The know what to ask when I got there. Have a Here is the Reader’s Digest version. lions at the MGM are always interesting to lot to think about and was not scared off of I thought it was a great value for the watch. (And listening to the people who the thought of eventually getting a cat of money. Got a hell of a lot of stuff paid for have never seen a big cat up close is always my own. (In fact, am more sure than I was with the convention admission price and the entertaining!) Seeing the interaction of the that I either want one or want to work with food that they put out for the ice breaker, cats and handlers that obviously love the them somehow.) the dinner buffet and the breakfast the last animals was what got me interested in exot- As for the rest of the Vegas experience... day. And the food was really good! ic cats as a small child and the handlers are I am not sure if there is anything left to The vendors that were in the meeting often in the enclosure at the MGM giving report that would be, ummmm, fit for room were all very helpful and let me pick attention to the lions, and have always been human consumption. I’ll just repeat the old their brains at length about what they sold, pleased to answer questions. adage: “what happens in Vegas stays in why I would need it or want it, and the pros The day of speakers was really educa- Vegas.” and cons of cat ownership. tional. Hearing Rick Thomas talk was pret- I would travel for another convention Being a huge magic fan, I really enjoyed ty much worth the trip alone. The feed guy that had special things that would interest field trip day. I was excited to go back to has got me shaking in my shoes about ever me. The Miami convention holds promise the Secret Garden. It’s one of my favorite being able to properly feed a cat of my of having a lot of cats so I would (and in places in Vegas and I hope to get back on a own, but I learned a lot. fact am) planning on going there. I want to day they have their new leopards out before There were a lot of interesting people pet a few to see if I have fear in person and they are no longer babies. To me, it is a there with a lot of different viewpoints and to maybe see what kind of cat I’d want. very peaceful place and I spend hours there that was very cool. —Donna Coullhan Two Very Special Old Men 2005Marvin has visited and shared Hush with the residents of over 735 different nursing homes with over 5,000 1 revisits. They have traveled over 400,000 miles in the past 11 ⁄2 years visting nursing homes. Leann Montgomery Those two were a treasure to MEFES, FCF, Marvin could get up and around and I felt I remember the first time I met Marvin and countless other people whose lives they compelled to answer that call. Marvin had and Hush. It was at my first MEFES meet- touched. been admitted to a nursing home and his ing in April of 1999. Although, I had never We all loved them. We all flocked to son was supposed to be taking care of met him before, he was my inspiration for visit with them at meetings and conven- Hush. I contacted Marvin’s son and I real- acquiring my first serval. Marvin had been tions. We all wanted to be a part of the ized that that he was not really caring for visiting nursing homes with Hush in my magic that existed between that old man Hush and it would be best to get him out of area. He stopped by the local newspaper and his cat. And we all watched as Mar- there as soon as possible. I was off work on where my mom worked. She went on and vin’s health continued to decline. Friday and Marvin’s son had a ball game on about this African bush cat she had met. Bob sent out a plea asking if any of us Friday night and wouldn’t be available until I found some newspaper articles on Marvin could take Hush in at least temporarily until late. I didn’t care how late it was, Hush was and Hush and their travels and did a lot coming home with me. of research on servals. Shortly after that, It was obvious that Marvin’s son was I acquired Osiris from a breeder here in terrified of Hush. At 18, Hush has got- Kentucky and joined LIOC, now FCF. ten a little cantankerous and no one can Osiris was with me at that first MEFES handle him the way Marvin does. I was meeting. He was about ten months old a little apprehensive myself about get- at the time and when Marvin met him, ting him loaded. Fortunately as soon as he kept petting him and saying to me, Hush saw his crate, he perked up and “Someday, he will be as good as my looked at me as if begging to be taken Hush.” I’ll never forget how proud that out of there. He hopped down off his made me. shelf and waited patiently at the door For the next six years, I watched in for me to get the crate situated. I opened amazement at the bond between Marvin the door and in he walked. It was per- and Hush. I loved listening to Marvin’s fect. We had to ride home with the win- stories about his adventures with Hush. dows down because Hush smelled so 56 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 bad. It was freezing outside and while the happen but Marvin had touched so many icy air blasted my face, I cried all the way lives, visiting nursing homes with Hush, home. And I promised Hush that no matter that by God, if there was any justice in this 2006 BoD what, I would always care for him. world, Marvin should reap some of what Although I could never take Marvin’s place he’d sown. Candidates in his life, I promised that I would try with I went home and called Bob Turner and everything in me to love him as Marvin did. told him that I needed him to meet me at Members Nominated to the FCF I was worried about how Hush would the nursing home the following weekend. I Board of Directors handle the stress of being in a strange place might get bitten but it would be so worth it without Marvin. I had prepared a cage for to see Marvin and Hush together again. I The nominating committee has veri- him with a rug and huge pile of pillows and would figure out a way that we could han- fied the slate of candidates listed blankets to sleep on as I was concerned dle Hush but I needed some back up in case below who will be eligible to be elect- about how his old joints would handle Hush got nasty. I wasn’t even sure that ed by the FCF members to serve two- year terms commencing on 01-01-07 being on concrete. When we uncrated him, Hush would allow me to put the leash on and ending 12-31-08. Ballots will be he took one quick spin around the cage him, but when the day came, I asked him if mailed with the September issue of sniffing and then plopped down and he wanted to go see Marvin. His eyes lit up the newsletter and the membership stretched out on his bed. He looked pretty and he met me at the door, I attached the will have five weeks to return them to happy. I made a promise to him on that icy leash and into the carrier he went. He thor- the address specified. tear filled night that I fully intended to keep. oughly enjoyed the hour-long car ride, but For whatever time this old man has left, he when we pulled into the parking lot of the President will be treated like a king. nursing home, he got extremely excited. Lynn Culver Hush has been in my care for several I’m convinced that Hush knew exactly Vice-president months now and he’s doing fabulous. He where he was. His tail was wagging. He Marcus Cook seems pretty happy here. He greets me with was meowing and pawing at the door, Sara Comstock purrs and serval chatter and still expects to wanting out of the carrier. There is a nice Zuzana Kukol be hand fed most days. He has decided that living room type visiting area at the nursing Brian Werner he prefers Nebraska to chicken and will home. We parked Hush’s carrier beside the complain until he gets his way, and he couch and went into Marvin’s room and Secretary always gets his way. visited for a while before telling him that Harold Epperson (Incumbent) Monte Francis was kind enough to send we had a surprise for him. We walked down Kevin Chambers me a CD of photos that he had taken of to the visiting area and Marvin sat down on Teri Morast Marvin and Hush over the years. I had the couch right next to the carrier without Treasurer taken the best ones and blew them up and ever even noticing it. I opened the carrier Harold Epperson (Incumbent) framed them for Marvin’s room in the nurs- door and Hush shot out of it and into Mar- Kevin Chambers ing home. When I gave him the first photo, vin’s lap. He was purring and rubbing his he kissed it and talked to it as if Hush was head all over Marvin’s face. The two of Director of Member Services really there. He spent more time visiting them literally lit up the room. I don’t know Carolyne Clendinen (Incumbent) with those photos than he did with us. My which one was happier. Hush was a perfect mom and I fought back the tears during the gentleman the entire visit. He was so con- Director of Public Realtions entire visit. Marvin seemed as if he’d lost tent to just curl up next to Marvin and sleep Irene Satterfield all hope. He told me that Hush had visited while we visited. Director of Conservation that very nursing home over 500 times in Marvin got tired and wanted to go back William Meadows his lifetime. When it was time to go, I to bed. I told Hush to get in his carrier and Mindy Stinner hugged Marvin and told him that Hush and right in he went. As Marvin headed to his Leann Montgomery I loved him. That he didn’t have to worry room, again he said, “My bright little one, about Hush, I would try to love him as you take care of my boy.” I’m sure that Director of Education much as he did and that he would never Marvin slept better that night than he had Carol Bohning (Incumbent) want for anything. He seemed relieved to since he’d been there. I’ve always had a know that I had Hush. “My bright little special place in my heart for Hush, but over Director of Legistaltion Evelyn Shaw (Incumbent) one”, he said, “you take care of my boy, tell the last four months, I’ve grown extremely Zuzana Kukol him I love him and tell him not to live to be attached to him. I hope that he still has quite 83.” a few more years in him. Life Director (One Position) I promised Marvin that day that I would I hope that he will continue to improve Bobby Bean (Incumbent) try to figure out a way to bring Hush to and Hush can still be a part of Marvin’s life. Robert Turner visit. The moment we hit the parking lot, I am truly honored to be able to give some- Nanette McGann my mom and I burst into tears. I didn’t thing back to these two very special old know how I was going to safely make it men who have touched so many lives.

57 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 50, Issue 4—July/August 2006 Updated Bylaws By-law changes approved by the FCF newly elected or appointed Treasurer, it will 6.4 Education: Oversees FCF Basic Hus- board of directors at the 2006 annual meet- be mandatory that a performance bond be bandry Course and certification of course ing in Cincinnati. These changes shall apply obtained (paid for by the Organization) and instructors, coordinates the development of to the candidates nominated for office in a copy of the bond shall be in the posses- any educational materials, contacts other this year’s election. sion of the President. An audit of the Orga- organizations that might have compatible nization’s accounts, either by an outside programs, and advises members of these ARTICLE 4- The Secretary auditor or an appointed committee, shall programs. 4.1 The Secretary shall maintain writ- also be performed at this time. 6.5 Conservation: Promotes FCF ten minutes of any meeting of the Board of Conservation Grants to researchers and acts Directors, special or general, or any general ARTICLE 6 - Term Directors as FCF liaison. Informs the FCF member- membership meeting and provide the Board 6.1 There are five (5) Term Directors ship of conservation programs available for approved minutes for publication in the who are elected to chair permanent, stand- felines both in-situ and ex-situ. newsletter. ing committees as Directors of: 6.6 Legislation: Keeps current on 4.2 The Secretary shall maintain A. Member Services state and federal legislation affecting the copies of all the organization’s documents B. Education membership. Works with Editor and Feline in good order. C. Conservation Conservation Federation web master to 4.3 The Secretary shall assist the Presi- D. Legislation keep members current on pending legisla- dent in compiling the formal agendas for E. Public Relations tion. Works with FCF Board of Directors to any business meeting. 6.2 Each Term Director may appoint develop and represent FCF position on pro- others to help with the duties of their office. posed regulations. Maintains and updates ARTICLE 5 - The Treasurer The Board of Directors may terminate any legislation section of web site concerning 5.1 The Treasurer is responsible for appointment by a majority vote. state and federal departments responsible overseeing all Feline Conservation Federa- 6.3 Member Services: Maintains the for applicable legislation. Keeps current on tion funds and notifying the Board of Direc- membership lists in such an order as to pro- USDA and USDI policies, rules and regula- tors immediately of any discrepancies after vide information as requested by the Board tions and develops official FCF responses asking for and failing to receive satisfactory of Directors. Answers inquiries and for- to these proposals and informs members of replies. They must implement and maintain wards to the nearest Branch for follow up. proposed or approved changes. a sound accounting system acceptable to Oversees the membership on the FCF 6.7 Public relations: Solicits display the Board of Directors and provide the Yahoo Internet chat list. Answers Internet advertising for the FCF magazine and web Board of Directors with quarterly state- inquiries to the FCF web site. Manages and site, acts along with the president as media ments. All payments shall be mailed to the updates the membership database on the contact of FCF, develops press releases for treasurer. FCF website. Sends all membership renew- FCF. Promotes FCF projects and events to 5.2 The fiscal year shall run from Jan- al and final notices and provides Vice Presi- media. Oversees development of the FCF uary 1 through December 31 of each year. dent with list of dropped members. Any web site. Contacts other publications and A year-to-date fiscal statement for the cur- member delinquent on their dues for sixty organizations for promotion of FCF and rent year shall be provided at the annual (60) days shall be dropped from the mem- suggests and works with the Conservation meeting and a full fiscal year report of the bership roll and all member privileges sus- and Education directors to develop fund- previous year to the Board of Directors by pended. raising ideas for their FCF projects. February 15. 5.3 No expenditure may be made in Summer is Over! Getting Ready for School? excess of five hundred dollars ($500.00) without prior Board of Directors approval. The FCF has recently upgraded their store to include sev- 5.4 Should any budgeted item, includ- eral new items. Something for the student, for the working discretionary funds, be expected to place, and for the home. Sweatshirts and hoodies for those cool campus nights and football games. Wall clocks for exceed the budgeted amount by more than your dorm room or office, calendars to mark your class ten percent (10%), the Treasurer shall notify schedules, or a journal to keep track of your classes. Even the Board of Directors for its approval FCF magnets for your locker or a FCF pin to wear! Need before disbursing further funds. something to put those trinkets in? We now have FCF tile boxes! 5.5 Should any allegation of financial mismanagement occur, it should be brought http://www.cafepress.com/thefcf immediately to the attention of the Board of Directors that are empowered to direct All items have the FCF Ocelot logo on them. immediate action to protect FCF’s funds Profits earned from the FCF online store will be used by the FCF for special projects such as until the matter can be resolved. education, conservation, fighting legislation and 5.6 Prior to transferring any funds to a other projects that benefit our membership.

58 Your best Shot

Clockwise from top: Convention ’92—Lynn Culver, Shirley Wagner, Katie Knight • Con- vention ’91—Paul Ramses, Loreon Vigne • Convention ’92—Paul Richardson, Lisa Padula • 1964—New Mexican bobcats, photo by Bobby Aufill • Cover 1991—Robert Baudy with clouded leopard kits • Covention ’97—Reva Anderson, Hush, and Jayne Anderson