Our Pack

Bobby McGee. Our sweet little pom cross, adopted from the Humane Society of Central Oregon in November, 2006. He had been surrendered by his former owner, and made a quick transition from shelter to our house by way of a neuter operation. So, after being traumatized by the loss of his family, being caged in the stressful atmosphere of a shelter, and losing his manhood, there was scant wonder he ate the front window blinds in frustration. Since that stressful weekend, we've learned a number of things from our great little teacher: never trust a dog near cat food or a cat box; provide a nice comfortable crate for your dog whenever you need to be absent from the house (no matter how much he whines); never assume your little dog will be the "underdog" at the dog park; and be prepared to walk, walk, walk every day to keep him occupied and happy so he won't eat the aforementioned blinds again.

Jade Blue (J.B.)J.B. is the perfect cat. As an adoption from the Humane Society of Central Oregon, he fits himself seamlessly into our family (no mean feat since he weighs in at about fifteen pounds). He's a gorgeous Russian blue who loves all sentient beings, as well as FOOD, warm laps, and comfy dog beds. And, considering his size, dogs do not question his right to lounge on comfy dog beds. And people do not question his right to lounge on people beds, or on their laps while trying to use the computer.

Hazel.Our tortoiseshell kitty, little Hazel, came to us via friends who had an overabundance of cats. She joined our household in 2005 when we moved to Bend, Oregon. Ginger, who was an only pet at the time, was none too thrilled at having a rival. But the two eventually came to an accommodation, meaning they usually stayed out of the other's way. This applecart, of course, was upset by the entrance of J.B., who managed to win Hazel's heart, but hasn't yet succeeded with Ginger. Hazel is the most reserved of the cats. I'm told this is common with torties. However, she has been known to crawl into Dale's lap when he's busy on the computer since she's fond of typing a bit before settling onto the bed for a restorative snooze.

Ginger. Ginger is our grand old dame. At somewhere between 14 and 17 (she's not disclosing her age), she prefers spending her days (between meals) on the loveseat. The other critters usually give her space and the respect she feels her due. If the respect is not forthcoming, an iron paw will quickly bring them back to reality. Ginger suffers from hyperthyroidism, which is kept under control by medication, but because of the disease has regained her girlish figure.

Mama Cat