THE FABULOUS ANIMAL RESCUE PROJECT

2011-12-30T20:34:00.000-08:00

The Project is now permanently closed.

Thank you so much for your support and generosity. It has been a privilege to be a part of a global "animal loving" community that came together to help animals in need.

Together we raised a grand total of $3194.95 for animals in need. You can see details of our donations by clicking the donations tab to the right.

Click HERE for a list of all the amazing artists, crafter, and rescue groups that were part of the Project. You can find links to their shops and web sites if you wish to contact them about their work.

Please continue to support artists who use their art for animal welfare. Reach out to your local No Kill rescues, shelters, and sanctuaries and give them a hand.

You CAN make a difference

Please read the post below this for more information.

FAREWELL

2011-12-17T08:03:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,

It is with a very very heavy heart that I must tell you that due to reasons beyond our control and for monetary reasons the Project will end on December 31, 2011.

After an extensive review, I have found that what we are putting in to the Project... both the time and the cost of running the it (for supplies, fees, etc.) is "SO" much more then the amount of money we are raising. And that time and money could be used, instead, to help more animals and rescues directly. Helping animals is the main goal after all.

It has been an amazing year and six months. In that time together we have raised over $3000.00 to help animals in need. We have reached hundreds of people. We helped raise awareness for many rescue groups, shelters, and sanctuaries. We have made connections and friends.

The blog will stay active for some time and I will feature your names and links to your sites and shops so folks can find you and contact you. This will apply to all members and rescue groups. I will also keep the facebook page active for some time for this reason as well. We all did some amazing networking and I would love that folks keep connected.

It was my privilege in meeting and working with you all. Your generosity in sharing your art, photography, your time, ideas, your stories, and your support... I will always cherish. I know I have said this before but it rings so true..... it is because of YOU that the Project existed and I will be eternally grateful.

I will be continuing in my individual way, to help animals in need and wish you all great success in your ventures. Maybe one or more of you will be inspired by the project to create your own! I know some of you have already!

On behalf of all the animals we have helped, I thank you. You have all been an inspiration to me and the honor has been all mine.

It is serendipity that our last charity is for elephants for an elephant never forgets. I will never forget you all!

Wholeheartedly,

Stacey

ZED AND CORVID AID

2011-12-15T04:41:00.000-08:00

Zed is one of the residents at Corvid Aid. He came in after being rescued by a lady who found Zed being mobbed by magpies. Noticing that he was clearly unable to fly and he also had an injured foot, she took him to the vets who said the wing would probably heal in a few weeks.

Unfortunately when Corvid Aid was phoned the lady had already had Zed for two weeks so if the wing was broken it would have healed by now and with it not being seen by a specialist vet the chances are it would have healed in the wrong position.

When Zed was brought in his wing had quite clearly dropped and he was unable to fly properly, although his foot had healed nicely. The lady had tried her best and did the right thing by taking him to a vet, its just unfortunate that many vets are not experienced enough to deal with wild birds.

Sadly nothing can be done for Zed now, but he does appear very settled in captivity so he will now have a home here for life, and if it wasnt for Sandra, the lady who rescued him, he wouldnt have survived at all.

Zed was named after Zed from the Police Academy films because of the strange noise he makes. Jays make quite a terrible sound for such beautiful birds!

Please consider adding Project member Corvid Aid to your Christmas list and donate so they can continue to provide a safe home for these fantastic birds.

Visit their WEB SITE to learn more.

WHITE TIGERS

2011-12-15T04:27:00.000-08:00

Watch this very informative video by our Project member Big Cat Rescue about the amazing White Tigers.

Please consider added Big Cat Rescue to your Christmas list and donate. They are devoted rescuers that protect these beautiful big cats and work very hard in educating the public.

Visit their WEB SITE to learn more.

AND THE WINNER IS....

2011-12-12T19:13:00.000-08:00

The winner of the logo contest is Project member Margie of
RED BELLY STUDIO.

Congratulations Margie!

After the first of the year Margie's logo will be printed on some tees, postcards, buttons, and magnets to help promote and raise funds for the Project.

Many Project members created amazing logos. It was very difficult to choose just one. Luckily many of the designers have given us permission to use their designs.

We will eventually offer other designs in tees and other gear.

Here are the other fabulous designs...

Nicola

Thank you again to all who participated in creating logos for the Project. We hope to reach more folks with your talents and help more animals in need.

INTERVIEW WITH A FOSTERER

2011-12-10T06:27:00.001-08:00

There are countless people and things to be thankful for in regards to rescuing animals and fosterers are one of them. Fostering is such an important part of rescue work. We think people who have fostered could explain it the best and may be by sharing their stories they can inspire others to foster for their local rescue group or shelter as well.

Our second interview is with Rheannon Walls who is currently fostering for Nevada Humane Society

1. Introduce yourself and where do you hail from?

My name is Rheannon Walls. I'm originally from Ada Oklahoma, but live in Reno Nevada.

2. What rescue group, shelter, or sanctuary do you foster for?

I currently only foster for the Nevada Humane Society, but I am hoping to soon be signed up to foster for many more organizations.

3. What kind of animals do you normally foster?

I have fostered 2 puppies (not for the Humane Society) but for the most part my fosters are orphaned or abandoned kittens. Some still on bottles, and some able to eat formula from a dish.

4. How did your adventure being a fosterer begin?

I began fostering one day by just signing onto Facebook. I saw that the Humane Society had gotten a large amount of kittens that needed to be hand fed and called in, just to see. They instantly asked me to come get a single, very malnourished kitten that needed 24/7 TLC. I brought him home and watched him go from a kitten,much smaller than his age, who couldn't even hold his head up properly, to a kitten with more spunk and size than kittens much older than him. And I haven't been able to quit since.

5. How do you keep yourself from becoming too attached to the fosters you help? And have you ever adopted one?

I adopted the first kitten I fostered, thought I had sworn up and down I wouldn't. I just couldn't part with him after seeing him go through so much in the beginning. Since then, it is so hard not to get attached. I had brought home kittens that were born just that day, a kitten that was 100% the breed and color I have always wanted, kittens that reminded me of childhood companions. I make sure to keep my goal in mind - Prepare this kitten to be a wonderful pet for a loving family. I avoid renaming them, I look for people to adopt them, and tell myself daily this isn't my pet. In the end, going separate ways is a very painful thing to do. But (as just happened today) when I call in to check, and am told the kitten was adopted into a wonderful home, the pain is replaced with complete joy.

6. What is most frustrating for you as a fosterer?

The most frustrating part of being a foster is just how much I'm needed. Everywhere I look I see people breeding more animals, while I am called constantly to see if I have room for another foster,or another foster litter. I know that my foster will soon be in a cage waiting to be adopted, along with countless other animals, none of whom deserve it. On the best days I am glad I have the chance to help the ones I can, on the worst days, I hurt from the knowledge that I can't do as much as I want.

7. What is most rewarding for you as a fosterer?

The most rewarding thing is knowing what I've done. Not only am I helping an animal grow, survive, and learn to be a pet (some come to me almost feral) but every time I have a foster,this is one more free cage,one more animal that the Humane Society can house and find a home for. Nothing is better than learning your foster has found a home, and knowing you are literally saving a life is truly something that can't be explained. Rescue groups have so much gratitude for the people that foster for them, you never forget how important what you are doing is.

8. What experience moved or inspired you the most?

The most touching fostering experience was my most recent. She came in, almost feral, scared of the world and everything in it. After many days and little progress, I thought I was going to fail her. I was laying there thinking about this when I saw a movement out of the corner of my eye and saw her standing next to me, her head tilted to the side. She gave a loud purr and rubbed up against me, and since then became the most loving, wild girl I've ever seen. To see the fear and distrust leave her eyes, and see her go from running away from me, to pouncing on my toes and hugging my feet, was the best thing ever.

9. Do you have pets of your own? How do they respond to the foster animals?

I have 3 cats (one a previous foster) and 1 dog of my own. After the much needed quarantine period, I let the fosters have supervised time with my pets. (Very important is making sure ALL vaccinations are up to date.) Though my older cats at first didn't know what to think, I can almost see them roll their eyes at me now every time. My previous foster is still young and gently (most of the time) helps me teach foster kittens the rules of being a cat, while my dog follows them around, soaking them with kisses and letting them attack her legs and tail for hours on end.

10. What advice can you give to someone who might be wanting to become a fosterer?

If anyone was considering fostering animals, I'd say just do it. Think of what you can handle, and don't take any more than that. If you work, or have a busy life, you don't have to take bottle fed babies. You can take kittens that just need to grow, take kittens that just need some human socialization, or even take kittens with their mother, who will do all the work and leave you to just play with them all and show them love. You can take a litter or single kitten. No matter what you bring into your home, you are saving a life and making a HUGE difference. It's work, and will take alot out of you emotionally in the end. But it will return so much more to you.

11. When you are not saving animals what do you like to do?

When I'm not working with my fosters, I'm going to school to get my Associates degree in Arts, and making plans for my future Fox and wild animal rehabilitation center I dream to open when I've retired.

Rheannon thank you so much for taking the time to share your story with us. We hope your interview inspires others to help their local rescues and shelters by opening their homes to animals in need.

NEW MEMBER KIM

2011-12-07T17:00:00.001-08:00

Please welcome new member Kim Wedlock.

The Admiral

Kim joins us from Bristol, England. She shares with us some of her beautiful photographs like the majestic "Admiral" above.

"My name is Kim, I'm 21, and I used to do photography as a hobby. I've since lost my "mojo" and haven't taken a picture in a long time. Instead I've turned my attention to jewellery making to sell in my Etsy shop, and I'm putting a lot of time into my fantasy writing to complete my trilogy.

I've always loved animals, had pets all my life. My mother has multiple sclerosis so when our dogs passed away we thought it best not to get any more. I have rats, a bearded dragon, a tarantula, a leopard gecko, 2 zebra finches and some fish. There are also mice who have lived in our garden for years. I worked for two years as a dog walker for a company in my area, and I have to say that while it doesn't pay brilliantly since I wasn't full-time, I have since realised it's the best job I'm likely to have ever had. It was loads of fun, and the fresh air was brilliant, and the dogs were stars.

I'm really pleased to donate these pictures, while they're not brilliant I hope that they can help to raise money nonetheless!"

We think Kim's photographs "ARE" brilliant and are so happy to have her join us.

You can learn more about Kim at these links...

You can purchase her cards in the Project shop HERE.

Thank you so much Kim for being a part of our Project. You ROCK!

THANK YOU!

2011-12-06T18:47:00.001-08:00

Together we have raised over $3000.00!

That is right folks! We just passed the mark.

On behalf of all the animals we have helped.....

THANK YOU!

INTERVIEW WITH PROJECT MEMBER REGINA

2011-12-05T11:59:00.001-08:00

Get to know Project member Regina Case

1. Introduce yourself and where you hail from?
I am an artist living on the coast of Northern California, in the very beautiful Pacific Northwest.

2. Tell us about your art or craft?
I've been a painter all of my life, and so fortunate to have always been able to pursue my career. It's such a wonderful way of life.

3. Who or what inspires you most to create?
I am constantly compelled to paint the beautiful dogs posing around my home. And the wonderful places we walk every day. Painting is a way of looking carefully at what I love-I pull together all of the things that make life so amazing, so one painting often includes my dog, warm rooms that represent my home, and rivers or oceans outside the windows or open doors.

4. What is your favorite piece or thing that you have created?

A number of paintings that capture the best things around me-they remind me to remember how lucky we are. I'll include a couple of recent paintings.

5. Why did you decide to join the Project?

I read a discussion on Flickr about what Stacey at FARP was doing, using animal images artists sent her to make cards, then selling them to gather donations to help animal rescue organizations. It was a wonderful idea, and I sent her images of my paintings to use.

6. Has being connected to the other artists of the Project inspired you as an artist?

Absolutely. Stacey's work on videos to help the displaced animals from the Japan earthquake was a huge inspiration. I wanted so much to do something for Japan, and started thinking about what I could do as an artist. I organized an auction of about 25 artists' work to benefit the Japan animal rescue efforts. It was just an unbelievable experience of artists and collectors wanting so much to help. I thought if I had lost everything, but someone had been able to save and return my beloved dog, how very, very much that would mean to me. We were able to make huge donations to JEARS and Animal Refuge Kansai.

7. Do you use your talent as an artist to help animals in other ways?
After the Japan auction, I realized how much I wanted to give something back to the planet. I considered volunteering at our local Humane Society, but thought I'd end up with many animals... I decided to start a blog of local professional artists' work devoted to promoting the art, donating a portion of the proceeds, and education. We donate to our local Humane Society and Save the Tiger Fund, which is now part of Panthera.org. We are going to do another auction in April to benefit Panthera.

8. Do you have any pets? Tell us about them.

I could talk forever about the wonderful animals I've loved and how much I've learned from them. Maybe my paintings say it better.

9. When you are not creating what do you like to do?

I love to walk with the dogs, and swim in summer. We can walk miles up our local river, swim and be in amazing nature, and still home for dinner.

10. You are commissioned with no limitations to use your talent to create one piece that would spread a message about animal welfare. What would you make?

Maybe an image of a healed planet, with wild animal populations in huge, untouched wild areas, and safe. And our beloved domestic animals in warm homes and loved. We need to remember to hope-it's still possible!

∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞

You can learn more about Regina and her work at these links...

Web Site

Art Helps The Planet Web Site

ETSY Shop

Regina joined the Project sharing four of her amazing paintings which can be purchased in the Project shop HERE.

Regina was also participated in the Projects HELP JAPAN videos which can be view on our blog HERE.

Thank you so much Regina for joining the Project. We are so proud to have you with us.

MERRY CATMAS

2011-12-05T04:51:00.001-08:00

Project member FRONN (Feline Rescue Of Northern Nevada) has added some Christmas... er... I mean CATMAS cards to the shop.

These fun festive cards feature some of the fabulous cats in the FRONN sanctuary like Cody and Marmy above and Callie below.

Check out these and the other fantastic Holiday cards in the Project shop HERE.

INTERVIEW WITH A RESCUER

2011-11-30T19:35:00.001-08:00

Meet rescuer Jackie Arnold from Australia.

1. Introduce yourself and where do you hail from?

My name is Jackie Arnold, I was born in Sandy, Bedfordshire , England. My family emigrated to Australia in 1971. I love living in Australia, so much beautiful open land and such a lovely relaxed lifestyle. I have always loved animals, we have always had pets. In 2002 just out of the blue, I had an idea to open a cattery, this was in April, by June it was built, and The Lucky Lodge & Scraps Garden Boarding Cattery was born, yay. We have a magnificent clientele, we are recommended by all the local vets, I absolutely love it, I just walk out my laundry door, I am at work. Surrounded by so many gorgeous cats/kittens.

2. What is your favorite animal?

That is hard to answer I adore all creatures, but I understand cats the best.

3. Do you have any pets?

Oh yes we have pets, 9 cats, 2 dogs, a turtle, goldfish, birds and 2 ducks and of course a husband.

4. What rescue group, shelter, or sanctuary do you own, work for, or volunteer at?

I own Jackie’s 2nd Chance Adoption Shelter

5. How did your adventure in animal rescue begin?

I became involved into animal rescue through customers of the cattery, people’s circumstances changed, moving into rental properties, partners with cat allergies, etc so they asked if I would help to find them a new home, of course after I had been looking after them as customers, I loved the cats, so felt it was a pleasure to help out.

6. What rescue experience moved or inspired you the most?

I think the most inspiring is when people come to re-home and they want to take an older cat, one girl wanted to re-home the oldest one I had, at that stage it was Minky a 14 year old Siamese, we also re-homed a 16 year old Tortie, a 15 year old Ragdoll.

7. Do you have a favorite adoption story?

I have so many, one in particular was an older couple that had lost their last cat on the road, hit by a car, they had come to choose a new furkid, they ended up taking 3, they always come for a visit at least each month. This particular month I had a mother cat with her 2 kittens, the moment the wife saw the mother, she said we will re-home her when she is ready, so 5 months later Kiara, had a new home. These cats have their own bedroom with a cat flap in the window, with the biggest cat run, they are so lucky to be safe and loved.

I am lucky too, because as I am writing this, they have come in boarding for 5 days holiday, so lucky me gets to see them again, like many of my re-homed rescues, they come back in as customers.

8. What is most frustrating about rescue work?

The lack of education is the most frustrating. People purchase a pet from a pet shop or free from the papers, not realising , they need vaccinations against cat flu each year, they need to be de-sexed BEFORE they get pregnant, or un-de-sexed males run away looking for a mate. Or when people live on a busy road and let them out, saying they never leave their property, or live near open land , let them out, they bitten by a snake, it’s only a cat????????

9. If you could give pet owners one piece of advice what would it be?

Number 1, your pet must be de-sexed, micro-chipped and kept inside or build a cat run, the outside world is too dangerous for a cat to be left outside, cars, snakes, dogs, fox’s ,cat haters, feline aids, cat fights, and of course the wild life. There is nothing wrong with having cats as 100% inside pets, they sleep 16-20 hours a day.

10. What advice can you give to someone who might be wanting to get involved with or start an animal rescue group, shelter, or sanctuary?

I would first advice they volunteer for a shelter, to get an idea of what is involved. They must realize this is a massive responsibility. There are no holidays, no days off, you will need to work with nasty cats at times, vet bills, cat food, cleaning products, litter etc etc, are huge expenses, so obviously money is a big issue. You would need to have a sensible limit too, it is so easy to keep saying yes, then you suddenly realise you have so many. It takes time to find homes too. Sometimes you may re-home about 15 in a month, but the next few months nothing. But it isn’t all bad, it is so lovely to save a mother and her gorgeous babies, watch them grow and change, develop their beautiful personalities. I only re-home to 100% inside homes or cat runs, they are all de-sexed, micro-chipped, vaccinated, have name tags and collars before they are ready for re-homing, I also have a disc on their collars saying they are micro-chipped, as so many people do not know about micro-chip tattoos in their ears, they also wear a guardian angel on their collar for extra safe keeping. To see them go to a loving family knowing you have been a huge part of their lives and gave them your best. That is also the hardest part, the goodbyes, it is bitter sweet, a great home, but they are leaving. I have a procedure I go through to make it easier for myself. There is also the worst side of rescue, the illness, the deaths, you feel guilty you didn’t do enough, you have to make that awful decision, many times over, not ever easy.

11. When you are not saving animals what do you like to do?

I am always doing something to do with animals. I walk my 2 dogs Becks(American Staffy) and Sunny( Bull-terrier) they just adore our cats. I also have volunteers that come to work at the shelter from the local schools and colleges, or people that just want to work with animals. I am also a founder of CAWS- Companion Animal Welfare Society Inc. We started the society officially in October this year, we are hoping to make changes to legislation regarding the care, welfare and de-sexing of companion animals, reducing the 40000 cats put to sleep each year in SA at the AWL/RSPCA Shelters, we aim to educate adults and children about animal care and requirements, we would like to shut down the puppy farms. So at the moment we are doing lost of fundraising, which really enjoy doing, we are raising money, so we can eventually subsidise de-sexing of companion animals. I am so excited about this new venture, we are having a great response from the community, we are continually receiving new members, there are a lot of very passionate animal lovers out there, that just want to make a difference, as do I.

Lucky Lodge Boarding Cattery

Rescue List

The Companion Animal Welfare Society Inc

Thank you Jackie for sharing your story with us. We are very grateful for all you do to help so many cats. You are the cat's meow!

AND............TIME!

2011-11-25T12:22:00.001-08:00

The logo contest is officially closed today!

We received many submissions and now we have the difficult task of choosing ONE main winner. We would like to thank everyone who participated in helping the Project with some new logos and for allowing us to use your designs.

So give us a little time to ponder on this and we will announce the winner very soon.

INTERVIEW WITH A FOSTERER

2011-11-24T13:32:00.001-08:00

Being Thanksgiving here in the States we thought it a great day to start our new series of interviews.....

INTERVIEW WITH A FOSTERER.

There are countless people and things to be thankful for in regards to rescuing animals and fosterers are one of them. Fostering is such an important part of rescue work. We think people who have fostered could explain it the best and may be by sharing their stories they can inspire others to foster for their local rescue group or shelter as well.

Our first interview is with Gina Torgersen who is currently fostering for Japan Cat Network.

1. Introduce yourself and where do you hail from?

My name is Gina and I'm originally from Florida, the land of alligators and hurricanes and lightning and Disney World.

2. What rescue group, shelter, or sanctuary do you foster for?

Japan Cat Network

3. What kind of animals do you normally foster?
Mostly kittens but occasionally adult cats as well.

4. How did your adventure being a fosterer begin?
I stumbled across JCN on the internet and went to visit the shelter and find out what I could do to help. I had volunteered a little bit when I was living in Niigata, a more rural area of Japan, but had difficulty getting around without a car, and housing that disallowed pets. I really missed having cats since moving to Japan, and volunteering was a good way to get some feline interaction. Then I took in a kitten off the street and no longer needed to leave home to have cat time. However, after I got settled in Osaka I still wanted to help cats (I had done a little fostering back in Florida as well) and meet people who also want to help cats, so when I found a group located near a train station I arranged to visit them, and I took home my first two foster kittens. (As for why I first started fostering in Florida, it was because the Alachua Humane Society had a sign saying "Kitten Fosters Needed" out front.)

5. How do you keep yourself from becoming too attached to the fosters you help? And have you ever adopted one?

I don't have any tricks. I am able to let go with relatively little heartache if they get adopted within the first couple months, but I tend to fall in love with them when they stay too long. But the number of cats I can keep in an apartment consisting of a single, albeit spacious, room, is limited, so if I started keeping them all I would have to give up fostering. So far I have kept three. One is from my second pair of foster kittens, so I didn't make it very far without keeping one. Two of the three I just couldn't bear to part with. The third was a difficult case, a cat who spent a lot of time in ill health. Since she required so much special attention, I was more invested in her, and I worried whether someone else would be ableto accommodate her. (She has finally recovered her health now.) There have been plenty of other foster cats I was just as in-love with and would have kept if I had a big house and didn't have the threat of losing my visa and having to leave the country and take all my cats back to Florida. It was timing and compatibility with other cats that determined which of my favorite fosters I kept.

6. What is most frustrating for you as a fosterer?
Not having enough space to take in all the kittens who need a place to stay.

7. What is most rewarding for you as a fosterer?
Knowing that I saved the lives of some of my foster cats, and seeing photos and videos of those who got adopted living happily in their new homes.

8. What experience moved or inspired you the most?
There are a lot of moving experiences but it's hard to pin down. One incident for which I am extremely grateful is the time I picked up a fluffy black kitten off the street, whom I then fostered until she was adopted by a family in Tokyo. She was lost under the patio of a restaurant I often visit and wouldn't come out, and the restaurant owner had a stroke of brilliance and placed a cardboard box over the hole in the fence. I tried to reach her in her hiding place under the stairs, but she just ran away. Trying to determine her location, I suddenly realized she had hidden inside the box, and I flipped it overand closed it, then used it to transport her to the vet's office. She turned out to be a friendly and sweet kitten. It was practically a miracle that we were able to get her out from under the patio.

9. Do you have pets of your own? How do they respond to the foster animals?
I have one 5-year-old cat whom I adopted off the street in Niigata, and he was very upset the first time I brought home foster kittens. He growled and fluffed up his tail. I kept them separate at first, but he soon grew attached to the kittens and would groom them. He hasn't gotten so close to other fosters since then, so I feel bad about separating him from his favorite kitten. The first foster kitten I decided to keep for myself grew into a beautiful cat who is mostly indifferent to foster kittens. One kitten got extremely attached to her, though, and that is another one I kept. The younger cats sometimes enjoy having young playmates. One of them has poor social skills and sometimes can't get along with new fosters, but it usually works out in the end. In any case I keep them separate until I'm sure they can get along, and the compatibility between the cats varies with each combination.

10. What advice can you give to someone who might be wanting to become a fosterer?
Fostering kittens is a great deal. It is just about the only ethical way to have kittens in your house several times a year without accruing a huge number of cats. Plus, if you are looking to adopt a cat, you can test drive a number of cats and find the perfect one for you. All this and you are doing good at the same time. The main drawback is that kittens spill more kitty litter on the floor.

11. Is there anything we forgot to ask that you would like to share?
Please support Japan Cat Network and Japan Earthquake Animal Rescue and Support . They have made such heroic efforts to save the animals left behind near the Fukushima nuclear power plant, in addition to the never-ending work of helping cats closer to home. They have been absolutely tireless since the earthquake hit in March. Find both JCN and JEARS on Facebook for all the latest news. They have an Amazon wish list where you can buy food and have it shipped directly to the volunteers feeding the Fukushima animals they haven't been able to get out of the restricted zone.

12. When you are not saving animals what do you like to do?
I enjoy reading science fiction and fantasy and watching old episodes of Star Trek. If I have any energy left over from saving animals (and necessary life stuff) I might study a foreign language, watch something other than Star Trek, or venture out to find a new vegetarian restaurant in the Kansai area.

You can learn more about the wonderful groups that Gina helps by clicking on these links.....

Japan Cat Network

JCN Facebook

Japan Earthquake Animal Rescue and Support JEARS

JEARS Facebook

Amazon Wish list

You may remember our video project when the devastating earthquake hit Japan back in March. Many Project member artists were inspired to create some images and allowed us to use them for a series of four videos in an effort to raise awareness for JEARS and helping animals in Japan. You can see the videos on our blog HELP JAPAN page HERE.

Thank you so much Gina for sharing your story with us and for the amazing work you do to help cats in need. You are truly an inspiration.

COOL CATS HELPING CATS IN ITALY

2011-11-20T16:17:00.001-08:00

Project member Aurora is part of a fantastic fundraiser in Italy. She and five other amazing illustrators have created a set of postcards to benefit Accociazione Protezione Animali Carpigiana (Association Animal Protection In Carpi) or A.P.A.C.

The A.P.S.C. is a non-profit organisation that deals with the protection of animals, notably cats, since 1989, defending the rights and helping the animals in difficulty, those abandoned, abused, lost, etc...

The Cat's House of Carpi helps alley cats and is it also possible to adopt a cat from distance.

The artists involved in this magnificent project are :

You can purchase these postcards for 8 EURO. That is only $10 and some odd change in US dollars.

To do so you just need to email apac.volontari@gmail.com

These would make great gifts for cat and art lovers for the holidays!

WINKY AND NAN AMBASSADORS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS

2011-11-17T11:51:00.001-08:00

I am very happy to welcome new member Nan and her fur kid Winky.

Nan and Winky live in Indianapolis, Indiana. They join us in hopes of becoming ambassador for special needs pets.

"Winky is my little furry son. I adopted him about 5 years ago. He had been surrendered to the animal shelter because his eyes were in horrible condition & his previous owner had no money to take him to a vet. When I adopted him he had just had one eye removed & was blind in his remaining eye. After numerous visits to the vet & even a doggie opthalmologist, it was determined he had no sight in his remaining eye & surgery to restore some vision was impossible. Later he had issues with his remaining eye & it had to be removed also. Even though he has no eyes, he is a very happy little boy & gets around the house in an amazing fashion! He even knows which way doors open, where there is a step outside, exactly where his food bowl is...he never ceases to amaze me. I just want everyone to realize the potential of special needs pets & give them a chance-they need a loving home more than that cute little puppy or kitten! Winky is now about 12 years old...he is a pudgy old man Jack Russell mix. Sadly, as he ages his hearing is getting worse but I have found clapping my hands helps direct him &, of course, I talk right into his ears!"

Nan and Winky sent in a few photos including the adorable one pictures above. The others are Holiday photos of Winky dressed as a pumpkin and in his Christmas Jacket. They are in our Holiday cards section in the shop.

Nan also has another dog in addition to Winky: Zahi Hawass, a rescued ShihTzu named after the famous Egyptologist. Her family also consists of several cats: Bowie, Kiva, Louise, Nefertiti, Picasso, Mabel, Riff Raff & Charles.

Nan's has an Etsy shop called CREEPY STUFF where she offers her creepy/cute art. Everything from handmade ouija boards to voodoo dolls to revamped monster shadowboxes.

"While much of what I make may have a creepy edge, it is filled with much humor & some cuteness as well!"

Visit this link to see Nan's work

ETSY

Thank you Nan and Winky for joining us and for helping us spread the word that special needs pet rock!

You can see Winkys cards at these links

Regular Card

Christmas Card

Halloween Card

ALL WE WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS YOU

2011-11-15T04:28:00.001-08:00

These 3 adorable and loving rescues want only one thing this Christmas..... for you to love them!

Are you their perfect human? If so please contact their rescue and take them home!

This is Leo. Leo was recently adopted which was supposed to be a turning point in his little life but then he was returned at no fault of his own. Leo is a loving and incredibly handsome.

Leo is at Feline Rescue Of Northern Nevada.

This is Toby. He was found crying and frightened during a thunderstorm while living on the street. He is loving and well behaved.

Toby is at Lucky Dog Rescue.

To read more about him CLICK HERE

This is Moonpie. She was abandoned by her former owner when they moved. She is a beautiful and curious girl and not shy.

Moonpie is at Magic Happens Rabbit Rescue.

DOG GONE CHRISTMAS

2011-11-10T17:00:00.001-08:00

This holiday we are very excited to join with Life Is Better Rescue, Jen Geraghty of TriPodDog Design, and the amazing dogs of Whiskey River and the Jello Shots with the Gentle Giants Band.

Whiskey River and the Jello Shots with the Gentle Giants Band is a virtual band of 14 Olde English Mastiffs on the internet. These famous dogs have combined their love of music, their love of humor, and their love of dogs in need, and their very noticeable size, into a force to be reckoned with!

Every one of these dogs in the band and their humans are committed to dog rescue in a big way. This holiday they have stepped up to help 'em out.

Jen Geraghty of TriPodDog Design, donated her time and talent to create these festive cards. Be sure to check out her website and her Etsy shop.

Life Is Better Rescue is already a member of the Fabulous Animal Rescue Project. They are located in Lakewood, Colorado, and serve those animals most at risk - those in danger of euthanasia, pregnant or nursing animals, and orphans too young or small to be adopted.

The dogs and folks involved in this holiday project wanted to say.....

"Thank you furry much for caring enough about homeless dogs to send our Christmastiff cards this year. Somewhere, a dog ate dinner today, and had a clean, warm place to sleep, thanks to you. We'd like to shake your paw."

As always 80% of each card purchase will be donated to Life Is Better Rescue. There are ten different designs to choose from and each card includes lyrics from the bands songs.

To purchase these cards

CLICK HERE.

INTERVIEW WITH PROJECT MEMBER ERIN

2011-11-08T20:18:00.000-08:00

Get to know Project member Erin of

Modern Pet Portraits.

1. Introduce yourself and where you hail from?

Hi, I'm Erin! I'm a professional Freelance Graphic Designer in Los Angeles, who has always had an enormous love for animals.

2. Tell us about your art or craft?
I use my digital graphic design skills to create modern, custom portraits of your lovable pets. Each portrait is completely personalized, created from each client's favorite photo of their furry friend. Just send in a photo, choose from a large selection of colors and background prints, and I will design a portrait of your best friend. You can also have the portraits printed on a variety of different gifts, from phone cases to dog bowls to pillows.

3. Who or what inspires you most to create?
My first portrait I did was for a friend, of her sweet french bulldog, and she absolutely loved it. My favorite projects are those that bring joy to people, and it seems that nothing brings people more unconditional joy than their pets!

I'm so excited that I can combine my love for animals with my career, and create pet portraits that make their owners smile every time they see them.

4. What is your favorite piece or thing that you have created?

I'm not sure that I have a favorite...each pet portrait has it's own sweet attitude or fun spirit.

5. Why did you decide to join the Project?

I knew I wanted my art to help animals, and I loved the concept of a group of artists joining together to do the same. More power in numbers!

6. Has being connected to the other artists of the Project inspire you as an artist?

It has, for sure. I love seeing new things that other artists are creating. I cant help but feel inspired, the more I'm surrounded by creative people.

7. Do you use your talent as an artist to help animals in other ways?

10% of all of my Etsy sales are donated to Much Love Animal Rescue. They're an organization dedicated to rescuing abused, neglected and homeless animals from the streets and shelters of Los Angeles and placing them in loving homes. They're a fabulous organization, 100% of all donations go directly to the animals. I volunteer my graphic design skills to help them with any print needs they have (currently helping create a new brochure and business cards for them). I also recently submitted my pet portrait service to be auctioned off by an organization called Stubby Dog to benefit pitt bulls and help improve people's perceptions of the breed.

8. Do you have any pets? Tell us about them.

I have rescued two cats, Harlow and Bogie (inspired by a couple of my favorite classic hollywood icons, Jean Harlow and Humphrey Bogart). They are so fun to have around. Harlow is very cuddly, and she especially likes to "supervise" while I work at my computer (see photo). Bogie is a very playful guy who likes to fetch!

9. When you are not creating what do you like to do?

I love living near the beach and spending time with friends in the sun. I enjoy traveling as much as I'm able to, and like to bring my camera along for some photography. When I'm at home, I like to read or watch movies (especially comedies). And cuddle with my kitties, of course!

10. You are commissioned with no limitations to use your talent to create one piece that would spread a message about animal welfare. What would you make?

A powerful design on the side of a huge building that calls attention to the issue of shelter pets in America. It breaks my heart that between 9 and 11 million animals die every year in shelters. I think our society needs a massive wake-up call about this preventable problem. If it changed even one person's mind about breeding their dog, giving up their pet to a shelter, or buying a dog instead of rescuing, that would make it worth it.

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You can learn more about Erin and her work at these links...

Erin joined the Project sharing three fantastic pieces of her work which can be purchased in the Project shop HERE.

Thank you so much Erin for joining the Project. We are so proud to have you with us.

National Animal Shelter Reform Week

2011-11-06T10:36:00.000-08:00

This week is "National Animal Shelter Reform Week".

It is a week dedicated to the educating of the public about the neglect and

abuse that is rampant in shelters, the systematic killing that goes on in

shelters, and what can be done to end the tragedy.

It is also a week dedicated in celebrating the many animal rescues,

sanctuaries, and animal advocates who not only provide a better

quality of life for animals but continue to fight to reform

animal welfare.

It is no easy task to acknowledge the truth of what really happens in many

shelters. These places were meant to be a safe haven providing

care, food, clean water, a warm bed, and a chance for a better life.

But it is fact that many shelters are horrible places denying basic needs,

ignoring abuse by so called caregivers, and ultimately killing countless

animals.

This week you can become part of the solution and a beacon of hope to

animals by educating yourself and others about shelters and shelter reform.

Here are some links to learn more....

Companion Animal Protection Act

Rescue 50

No Kill Advocacy Center

The No Kill Nation

Animal Wise Radio

You can also help by thanking your local rescue groups, sanctuaries, and

shelters who are doing the right thing. Donations, volunteering, fostering, and

just a "thank you" means so much.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER CHARITY

2011-11-01T04:57:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone for we raised an fantastic $191.75 for RescueCats Inc! Please continue to help this wonderful rescue group help cats in need.

The chosen Charity for November/December was hard to select with so many other amazing groups on the list. But for the last group of the year we like to go out with a bang, and what makes a bigger bang then an elephant?

With the recent tragic loss of their beloved Bella and for the amazing work they do to help rescue and keep elephants safe, The Elephant Sanctuary is our next charity.

Debbie, Ronnie, Lottie and Minnie

The Elephant Sanctuary in Hohenwald, Tennessee, is the nation's largest natural-habitat refuge developed specifically to meet the needs of endangered elephants. It is a non-profit organization, licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, and accredited by the Association of Sanctuaries, designed specifically for old, sick or needy elephants who have been retired from zoos and circuses.

Utilizing more than 2700 acres, it provides three separate and protected, natural-habitat environments for Asian and African elephants. The residents are not required to perform or entertain for the public; instead, they are encouraged to live like elephants. Since 1995, twenty-four elephants have found sanctuary here.

The Elephant Sanctuary exists for two reasons:

To provide a haven for old, sick or needy elephants in a setting of green pastures, dense forests, spring-fed ponds and heated barns for cold winter nights.

AND

To provide education about the crisis facing these social, sensitive, passionately intense, playful, complex, exceedingly intelligent and endangered creatures.

The Elephant Sanctuary inspiration and first resident Tarra, a 35-year-old Asian elephant and Bella, a rescued mixed-breed dog became a media sensation around the world with a unique friendship. (shown in the video above) Sadly, Bella recently passed away leaving a hole in everyones heart... especially Taras.

Tange and Flora

We are very excited to help the amazing people and these beautiful elephants at The Elephant Sanctuary. Proceeds from the sales in our shop for the next two months will be donated to them.

To learn more about them you can visit these links...

WEB SITE

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

Start shopping HERE

RIP DEAR BELLA

2011-10-28T16:31:00.000-07:00

It is with a broken heart that I share this story with you. You may have heard about or remember us posting about Tarra and Bella of the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. Tarra, an elephant, and Bella, a dog, were the BFFs. They had an inseparable friendship that would melt the heart of Jack Frost.

We just read that poor Bella has died. Her little body which had was found near the barn where Tarra was but that is not where she was attacked. They believe that Bella was attacked by some animals when she strayed from Tarra for a spell. Tarra arrived too late to save her but was able to stop further damage being done to Bella's body by carrying Bella from where she was attacked to the barn.

How moving.... Tarra broken hearted over her beloved Bella to carry her body back home.

The amazing folks at the sanctuary have said that everyone is grieving for their Bella, especially Tarra. But that she is surrounded love and the comfort of the other elephants.

You can read the entire story...... CLICK HERE

Our thoughts are with everyone human and elephant at the sanctuary.

RIP little Bella. The world is a bit darker since you were taken.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2011-10-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

We wish everyone a Happy Halloween!

Remember to keep your pets inside and safe especially black cats.

If you have the means PLEASE celebrate this Halloween by visiting your local rescue/shelter and adopt a black dog, cat, bunny... etc. Black animals are often overlooked for no fault of their own. They are majestic, beautiful, and full of love! Giving one of them a home this weekend will be the best treat you could give yourself!

INTERVIEW WITH PROJECT MEMBER SARAH

2011-10-20T12:08:00.000-07:00

We wanted to share with everyone just how extraordinary the people are that make up the Project. So we are starting a series of interviews with the Project members so you can get to know these amazingly talented and generous animal lovin' artists.

Our first interview is with Sarah of Yard By Yard Knits.

1. Introduce yourself and where you hail from?

My name is Sarah, and I'm a knitter from Newton, Massachusetts. I am originally from Maine and am a New England girl at heart!

2. Tell us about your art or craft?

I have been knitting since the fall of 2005. I decided it was time for a hobby, and a friend was knitting a pair of socks one night when I was at her house. My friend gave me a lessonand sent me home with yarn, needles, and instructions to practice! Always an overachiever, I decided I would make my friend a scarf with her yarn. After this first scarf, I was hooked. I quickly moved on to baby blankets for an extra challenge. I luckily had a couple expert knitting friends to help keep me on track.

In 2009, I opened my Etsy shop. I specialize in scarves and pet apparel. It's a bit of an odd combination, but it's what I like to knit! I don't even own a dog, but I will admit I am tempted to try some of the dog sweaters on my cat just to see how they look. She's very grateful that I have not given into that temptation.

3. Who or what inspires you most to create?

I am inspired to create by other crafters and artisans. I look at other Etsy shops or at craft fair booths and am continually impressed by the quality/variety of work. These artists inspire me to not only create but to create higher-quality items.

4. What is your favorite piece or thing that you have created?

My favorite piece isn't found in my store. I am expecting a son in December, and I knit him a baby blanket. I've made this same blanket before as gifts, but it's so much nicer when it's for my baby! I also knit a Christmas hat and booties set, which I think is pretty adorable if I may say so myself! Professionally, my favorite creations are my Angel Hair and So Soft Scarves. I love they way they look and feel. The colors are so vibrant, and it doesn't help that they are easy and quick to knit up!

5. Why did you decide to join the Project?

I love animals. I grew up with cats, gerbils, hamsters, birds, a guinea pig, and a rabbit. Animals have such spirit and personality, but they can be so vulnerable. Animal welfare is very near and dear to me because someone must protect and speak up for animals. When I first learned of the project, I was intrigued. I like the combination of artists creating artwork about animals to help animals.

6. Has being connected to the other artists of the Project inspire you as an artist?

As I mentioned above (#3), I am always inspired by other artists. Other project members continue to impress me with the variety and quality of work submitted to the project. As a knitter, I do not submit my own creations to the project. But I'm always looking at colors and shapes to inspire the creation of new scarves and dog sweaters.

7. Do you use your talent as an artist to help animals in other ways?

At this time, I do not use my talents to help animals in other ways. I have thought about donating a percentage of my sales to a local shelter or other animal welfare organization. Over the last year with increased sales, I feel more able to do this. I plan to do more research on organizations and set this as a goal for the coming year.

8. Do you have any pets? Tell us about them.

I have one very spoiled cat named Pheoda. She is a long-haired tabby cat who is full of love and affection. My parents and I adopted her when she was almost 2 years old from a family looking for homes for their pets due to allergies. She quickly claimed me and soon became my cat rather than the family cat. Pheoda is 8 years old now but still has the energy of a young cat at times.

9. When you are not creating what do you like to do?

I shouldn't admit how many hours I spend knitting! But, when I am not knitting, I like reading and baking. In nice weather, I love being outside taking walks.

10. You are commissioned with no limitations to use your talent to create one piece that would spread a message about animal welfare. What would you make?

I would knit a dog sweater with a simple heart on the back. I would also add the words "I Love You" around the heart. My hope is that this would inspire others to love their pets and animals as much as I do.

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You can learn more about Sarah and her beautiful knits at these links...

ETSY SHOP
FACEBOOK
TWITTER

There are some beautiful scarves for you and lovely sweaters for you pup... ideal for the coming winter and holidays!

Sarah joined the Project sharing a photograph of Kitty which can be purchased in the Project shop HERE.

Thank you so much Sarah for joining the Project. We are so proud to have you with us.

STASYA AND THE WHALE

2011-10-19T19:27:00.000-07:00

Welcome new member Stasya.

Stasya found the Project through the ETSY FOR CHARITY TEAM and

we are so happy to have her join us.

Stasya lives in Oxfordshire, England. She has an ETSY shop called Stitch And Fold were she offers origami, amigurumi and handmade cards.

"I have a bit of a weakness when it comes to pretty paper and soft, quality yarn. I love to turn them - fold by fold or stitch by stitch - into adorable animals, flowers and ornaments. I am a university student who otherwise spends my time reading articles and writing essays. Apart from crafting, I love also love gardening - in particular growing flowers, veg and fruit."

Stasya also donates 20% of her profits towards her chosen charities "Teach a Man to Fish", a charity that supports education projects in developing countries, and "Médecins Sans Frontières" (MSF), who aim to provide medical aid in areas of need.

You can learn more about Stasya and Stitch and Fold at these links:

ETSY SHOP
FACEBOOK

TWITTER

You can purchase Stasya's card in the Project shop HERE.

Thank you so much Stasya for joining our awesome community of animal loving artists.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM SPAIN

2011-10-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

Project member Nancy Grönholm of Those Parasol Days, has added a new Holiday card to the Project.

Nancy lives on the Mediterranean coast of Costa Blanca with about 8 cats and the regular street cat or two in temporary care as well.

"Every day starts with a morning walk to check on the local cat colonies, feed them, play with them, look after injuries and sniffles - those who let themselves get caught, go to the vet for treatment - and then a shorter version of the rounds again in the evening, to offer a late night snack."

Nancy joined the Project with her lovely "A while by the window" piece. She is a gifted artist and devoted animal lover. We are so happy to have her as part of the Project.

Be sure to visit Nancy store for your holiday shopping... CLICK HERE.

Nancy's beautiful bird card will brighten anyones Christmas while helping some animals

receive a bit of food and care this holiday.

CLICK HERE to see her Holiday card in the Project shop.

JANE AND SUZANNE ARE THE CATS MEOW

2011-10-08T12:40:00.000-07:00

Please welcome new members Jane Heller and Suzanne Grobbel.

Jane hails from Montreal, Quebec. She joins the Project with her amazing photography talent featuring this beautiful farm cat.

"I don't have any animals myself but my mother still has the farm I grew up on. My Etsy shop is full of portraits of her menagerie of animals. With 3 horses, 10 sheep, a donkey, chickens, ducks, pigs, a cat and a dog I have lots to photograph."

You can learn more about Jane and Jane Heller Photography at these links...

JANE HELLER PHOTOGRAPHY WEB SITE

ETSY SHOP

FACEBOOK

FLICKR

You can purchase Jane's card in the Project shop HERE

Suzanne joins us from Round Hill, Virginia. She shares with us this grand block print titled "Tabby Love".

It is a hand-pulled block print based on an original photo of Winston (in front) and Eliot (in back). From what Suzanne told us, these two young tabbies are littermates, and in cold weather, they like to curl up together to keep warm (when they're not busy wrestling and chasing each other all over the house).

"I've got cats, a small flock of laying hens, a pony, and a mule. While i don't do any formal rescue work, stray and feral cats seem to find me. I try to get 'em fixed - in whatever literal or euphemistic ways they need - and farm 'em out. "

Suzannes has a shop on ETSY and Zibbet called Pressing Needs where she sells her fantastic prints. And she also has a shop called Fripperie where she sells groovy vintage patterns.

You can learn more at these links...

ETSY SHOP

ZIBBET

FRIPPERIE
BLOG

You can purchase Suzanne's card in the Project shop HERE

Thank you so much Jane and Suzanne for sharing your talent to help animals in need!

LISA HOPS IN THE PROJECT

2011-10-07T12:30:00.000-07:00

Please welcome new member Lisa Holtzman.

Lisa joins us with two fantastic watercolors of rescued rabbits. The two above are her own bunnies Maddie (a gray and white english spot) and Mocha (a palomino rex).

"I make my living as a professional calligrapher in Santa Monica, California. I paint and make jewelry for pleasure, gifts and occasional commissions. I adore all animals. I have donated my art on many occasions to help raise money for animals."

"A friend introduced me to your blog and I'm blown away by the art and effort!!!"

We are so happy to have you join us Lisa and that you would share your amazing work to help animals in need.

You can learn more about Lisa and her Calligraphy at these links...

PERSONAL BLOG

CALLIGRAPHY BLOG

You can purchase Lisa's cards in the Project shop HERE

WORLD ANIMAL DAY

2011-10-03T17:37:00.000-07:00

World Animal Day - a special opportunity for anyone who loves animals

MISSION STATEMENT - WORLD ANIMAL DAY

To celebrate animal life in all its forms
To celebrate humankind’s relationship with the animal kingdom
To acknowledge the diverse roles that animals play in our lives – from being our companions, supporting and helping us, to bringing a sense of wonder into our lives
To acknowledge and be thankful for the way in which animals enrich our lives

World Animal Day was started in 1931 at a convention of ecologists in Florence as a way of highlighting the plight of endangered species. Since then it has grown to encompass all kinds of animal life and is widely celebrated in countries throughout the world. October 4 was chosen as World Animal Day as it is the Feast Day of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.

It is intended as a day of celebration for anyone in the world who cares about animals. It is not restricted to any one nationality, creed, religion, political belief or ideology.

Launched in the UK on 4 October 2003, organisations, groups, animal shelters, places of worship, schools, clubs and individuals participated in what was to become an annual event and, quite simply, helped make history!

Since the official World Animal Day website was launched in 2003, the number of World Animal Day events taking place throughout the world has increased year upon year and with your help we can ensure the trend continues.

And that is the aim, to encourage everybody to use this special day to commemorate their love and respect for animals by doing something special to highlight the importance of animals in the world.

You can learn more, download cool stuff, and get fantastic ideas at the

WORLD ANIMAL DAY WEB SITE

Of course everyday should be animal day so take these awesome ideas and make them a part of your everyday life.

The animals of the world Thank you!

IZA BRINGS A WINTER WONDER!

2011-10-02T09:11:00.000-07:00

I am very happy to introduce new member Iza!

I was lucky to have strolled through Iza's ETSY shop Szalonaisa's Wonderland and was taken in by her amazing talent. Iza was very happy to join us here at the Project hoping her beautifil photograph titled "Winter Time" would help animals in need.

Iza joins us from Kilkenny in Ireland. "I love making pictures of animals. This is not so easy as it's looks but it give plenty of satisfaction. Besides making photos I also make quilling cards with are great fun for my friends and family also for our cat :) She always try to eat some of my craft stuff :) "

You can learn more about Iza and see more of her work at these links:

BLOG

ETSY SHOP

FACEBOOK

Iza's card is available now in the Holiday Card section... CLICK HERE.

We are so excited to have Iza join our community of artists and animal lovers.

Thank you Iza!

CONGRATULATIONS STACEY MAE!

2011-10-02T08:04:00.000-07:00

We are so happy for Project member Stacey Mae (pictured above) and her handlers Maria and Richard Mandel. Stacey Mae won the American Hero Dog award for therapy dogs. Congratulations!

Stacey started Teddy Bear Project in December of 2010. Through her Project she collects teddy bears and other stuffed animals for kids in hospitals and for folks in nursing homes.

Stacey, a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, has dedicated her life to helping others. She visits the nursing home 2-3 times a week with her family as well as passing out baked goods. She has helped brighten the lives of those who are usually forgotten about until they are called home. It's hard to say goodbye but knowing you were there to brighten their lives makes it a bit easier.

Stacey Mae's handler Maria, is one of the earliest members of the Project. She joined us with her portraits of Myron the blind wonder dog. Then more recently Maria and Stacey Mae set up a listing featuring beautiful photographs of Stacey Mae.

Stacey Mae, Maria, and Richard are amazing heroes making such a difference in peoples lives by just being kind! ROCK ON !!!!

HOPPING FOR HELP

2011-09-29T12:32:00.000-07:00

I am happy to introduce new members House Rabbit Society Of Missouri!

Fawn, Fiona, Felicity, Freda, Fennel, Flemming,and Fineas

HRSOM was one of our recent charities. Now they have come to join our quest in raising funds and awareness for animals in need.

House Rabbit Society is a 501 (c3) all-volunteer, non-profit organization with a dual purpose of rescue and education. Utilizing foster homes as rescue "shelters," volunteers provide appropriate care and socialization opportunities to rabbits so that they may be adopted into loving, permanent, indoor homes.

Their educators assist the public, humane societies, and local shelters through publications on rabbit care, phone and e-mail consultations, and classes upon request.

They do not euthanize an animal unless they are suffering from an incurable disease or wound.

The House Rabbit Society of Missouri, St. Louis, directs their rescue efforts towards saving the lives of bunnies in threatening situations, those scheduled for euthanasia at local shelters, or rescue referrals from area shelters and veterinarians. Their commitment to saving the lives of bunnies is paramount.

Francesca

They have donated some of the most adorable bunny photos featuring their rescues from the 2011 floods, like the group of littles on top with Fawn, Fiona, Felicity, Freda, Fennel, Flemming,and Fineas. And the beautiful Francesca above.

You can learn more about HRSOM at these links:

WEB SITE

FACEBOOK

You can purchase the HRSOM cards in the Project shop HERE.

We are so excited to have yet another amazing rescue group join us.

HELP NEEDED FOR ALSAN'S CATS

2011-09-25T16:17:00.000-07:00

ETSY team Artist For Animals brought this story to us.

Tragedy hit Aslan's Cats (Sanctuary for Leukemia Positive Cats) by Hurricane Irene! We all know how hard it is to find a safe, wonderful home for felv+ Cats….Aslan’s WAS that place!

Aslans Cats (located in Catskill, NY) was submerged by flood waters from the storm. This unique sanctuary housed 68 leukemia positive cats in a home environment. Sadly eight cats died from the flood. The sanctuary lost all their possessions in the flood: food, litter, beds, scratching posts, condos, MEDICINE and a new front loading washer and dryer and so on. The entire basement was under water and the first floor had 4 feet of water and was filled with mud.

Prior to the flood, this was a beautiful house and the cats could go freely from inside into spectacular fenced in yard with a specially outfitted shed that the cats really enjoyed. This area was not told to evacuate and the flash floods took everyone by surprise. Hilary (the director and manager of the sanctuary) was forcibly dragged from her home by police against her will and when she was permitted to return a few hours later, she found the devastation. She’s been living a nightmare.

If you have the means please consider helping the surviving 60 cats. They need monetary donations as well as material donations. They have no safe place to go, so they have been living in devastating conditions since the storm. These are Leukemia cats and they often need medications.

You can donate by CLICKING HERE.

WILD HORSES & COFFEE

2011-09-25T05:57:00.000-07:00

These are some of the wild horses that roam about my home in Reno, Nevada.
These beautiful creatures usually stroll through the neighborhood in the wee hours of the morning while we all sleep. But today they came by around 7:30 in the morning. I stood on my porch with my cup of coffee and my recorder as they paraded past my yard.
My cats Sammy and Mischa, who were enjoying their morning romp in the yard with me, were a bit freaked out by the horses and ran inside to watch from the safety of the house. My neighbors dogs, Ash and Rosie, who usually bark at any passers by, didn't make a peep and remained perfectly still as they watched the horses walk through their yard. These majestic beings left as quickly as they arrived eating only a few bits of weeds in my neighbors yard which he was more then happy about.
These are the same horses that some people are gathering up and calling them a nuisance. Now do they look like they are bothering anyone?! To share the space I am living in with these horses is an honor. I hope that people come to their senses before it is too late.

EVERY TIME A BELL RINGS.....

2011-09-19T11:57:00.000-07:00

We received notice from Project member Nancy that her beloved baby boy Clarence passed away today. When Nancy adopted him she changed his name to Clarence after the name of the angel in the movie "It's A Wonderful Life" since he came to them at Christmas. They say in that film that every time a bell rings and angel gets his wings. I hear bells.... don't you?

Clarence was the Projects first Saint Bernard. He was adopted by Nancy from "Save Our Saints" in December of 2005. He was 2 1/2 years old, underweight and not properly cared for. Not withstanding his hard early life, Clarence came charging through Nancy's front door dragging his handler behind him with his tail arched in a beautiful plume (which is what Saints do when they are happy) as if to say, "Hi! I'm home everybody!!!!!!!".

Nancy said that Clarence died quite unexpectedly after a short illness. She was able to give him a dignified end.

"I have been though this a dozen times, but Clarence was so special: he touched the lives of so many people in his short time with us. Please continue to use his picture for FARP: I would want his magnificent face to continue on to help other animals." - Nancy

Our hearts go out to Nancy and her family. The world is lesser of place with Clarence gone but we are all better for knowing him.

If you would to see more images of Clarence you can CLICK HERE

BLS .... YOUR DOG COULD BE NEXT

2011-09-18T16:06:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading an very important post by Project member Ashley of Lucky Dog Rescue. There was no question that I had to share it with everyone.

Ashley's post is about BLS a.k.a. Breed Specific Legislation. It refers to a law or ordinance passed within a given jurisdiction, which restricts or bans the ownership of specific breeds of dogs.

"Even if you don't own a Pit Bull yourself, your dog's breed could be the next on the list. Your city... your county could be next. BSL threatens your family... it threatens my family... my dog, Riley, and all of my rescue babies." - Ashley

CLICK HERE to read Ashley's post and be sure to share it with everyone you know. Educate yourself, those around you, and get involved in stopping the ignorance of BLS.

PAOLA AND HER LITTLE DEVIL

2011-09-17T12:13:00.000-07:00

I am happy to introduce new member Paola Zakimi.

"T for Tasmanian Devil "

Paola hails from Cordoba, Argentina. She joins us with the Projects first Tasmanian Devil!

This adorable little devil is part of Paola's alphabet series. Paola has created wonderful animal illustrations from A to Z. She also has many other amazing pieces in her shop with more animals, lovely humans, and even original paintings. And if you visit her web site you will find some beautiful dolls that she has created as well.

"I love to create. I spent all of my childhood and part of my youth in cold Patagonia, Argentina. I studied arts and design in Buenos Aires. I lived in Buenos Aires, Palermo till 2007 then I moved to Villa Giardino, Cordoba, where I am living till now, with my hubby and daughter , 3 dogs and one cat! "

You can learn more about Paola and her work at these links:

We are so happy to have Paola join us and share her amazing talent to help animals in need.

Thank you so much Paola!

You can purchase her Tasmanian Devil card in the Project shop HERE.

BUNNY TREATS

2011-09-12T04:37:00.000-07:00

Magic Happens Rabbit Rescue has added some Halloween treats to the shop.

Jewel

This adorable photograph of Jewel along with a few more are just some of the awesome holiday images Lisa of MHRR has added to the Project. Each is a portrait of their rescued rabbits.

We have added the Halloween photos first but there are more for many holidays and we will be adding them through the following weeks. Of course the proceeds of these festive cards will benefit MHRR.

Magic Happens Rabbit Rescue is a non-profit group of foster homes, volunteers, and supporters working to rehome abandoned rabbits and educate the public about their care. They are based in Baton Rouge, LA.

You can learn more about them HERE.

To see more holiday cards click HERE

To see the regular MHRR cards click HERE.

MORE PRECIOUS PAWS AND CLAWS

2011-09-10T11:07:00.000-07:00

Cassandra of Precious Paws Rescue has added some new images to their listing in the Project shop.

There is Remmy. He is a 9 year old Lab mix who is still looking for his forever home. He was surrendered to a Northern Ontario shelter that then transferred him to Precious Paws due to lack of space. He is hoping he'll find his forever family real soon!

Little Pitou is a 3 year old Quaker Parakeet who was rescued when her previous owners no longer wanted her. She was passed around through 4 different homes before coming into rescue and then her foster mom fell for her charm! She's now been in her forever home for almost a year!

And adorable Dublin. He is a 1 year old Cocker Spaniel who was surrendered to Precious Paws by his previous owners. After about 2 months in fostercare he's been adopted and is very excited to be going to his forever home!
You can purchase these and other wonderful pets in the Precious Paws listing HERE.

There are also two new Christmas cards from Precious Paws featuring Roo (above) and Benny (below). Cassandra is working on some more festive photos for the holidays.
These holiday cards are a great way to spread Christmas cheer and help animals in need. You can see more in our HOLIDAY CARD SECTION in the shop.

Precious Paws Rescue is a non-profit, all-breed dog rescue based in Barrie, Ontario. But they also help cats and birds too! They are dedicated to saving the lives of homeless pets by rescuing from pounds and shelters across North America.
Cassandra has been with the Project since our beginning and is a fantastic person and dedicated rescuer.
You can learn more about Precious Paws at their WEB SITE and FACEBOOK page.

MODNIC NEEDS SOME SUPPORT

2011-09-08T12:01:00.000-07:00

This beautiful girl is Modnic. She is a Siberian/Bengal Hybrid born in 1993. She and Trucha, who are thought to be siblings, were rescued from Savage Kingdom, a breeding facility that was shut down by officials in 2006. The two have become quite comfortable in their new surroundings at Big Cat Rescue and spend their days resting under the shade of an oak tree or splashing in the fresh water pool in their Cat.a.tat. Since their arrival both cats have warmed up considerably to keepers and greet everyone with an enthusiastic chuff.
Modnic recently had a severe surgery. Everyone at Big Cat Rescue and all of her fans are hoping the best for her and wait with worry.

Here is the story from the BCR news letter......
"Modnic the tigress went in for surgery because it looked like her uterus was falling out. Having been bred, nearly to death at Savage Kingdom, and the fact that she was diagnosed with mammary cancer, we weren't sure there was much hope of saving her. We didn't want to do the very extensive and invasive surgery required to spay her if the cancer had already spread to her lungs. Only an X-ray of her chest could tell us if it had. We do not have that kind of equipment in our onsite cat hospital and the portable X-ray we have borrowed in the past can have a hard time producing clear images through larger areas of the body.
We called our friend Dr. Hay of Veterinary Surgical Services who agreed to let us bring Modnic to his clinic. This trip was a big deal and the first of its kind for Big Cat Rescuers. Preparations were made in advance, with the assistance of Big Cat Rescue's primary veterinarian Dr. Wynn, to have Mondic loaded into a transport the day before so that she would be ready to go to see Dr. Hay the next morning. A convoy of three cars including the transport trailer hit the road for the 15 minute drive. Founder and CEO Carole Baskin and President Jamie Veronica were joined by Dr. Wynn, Operations Manager Gale Ingham and Media Producer Chris Poole.
Shortly after arriving Modnic was sedated and X-ray were taken of her chest. The first X-ray showed a cloudy area on her lung and we were devastated. Even though we were fully prepared for this to be the case, it was still an awful moment. We all just stared at the screen...silent. Then one of the vets said, "Sometimes, in a big animal, if they are laying on their side for a while, it can squish the lung on that side a bit and make the area look cloudy because it isn't fully inflated. How about we prop her up, let her take a big breath and try to get a shot that way?" This time the cloudy area was gone and Modnic was whisked into the surgery room."

The tissue that was falling out of her vagina wasn't a collapsing uterus, but rather a huge, fist sized tumor. Dr. Hay snipped it off and cauterized the bleeding before turning to the two lowest teats with cancerous bulges, each about the size of an orange. Usually, in cats, if one teat is affected they all are, which would mean cutting her open down both sides from chest to abdomen, but they couldn't detect any masses other than these two. Four hours and two surgeons later, Modnic's tumors were removed, she was stitched up and heading back to Big Cat Rescue. She will spend a couple of weeks recovering before she is moved back out into her enclosure."
Big Cat Rescue is an amazing sanctuary for big cats and also members of the Project. You can donate to help care for Modnic and the other cats at the BCR Donations page. OrYou can purchase BCR cards and more in the Project shop. Choose from many BCR cats including Modnic herself. CLICK HERE
Please keep Modnic in your thoughts. THe first half of her life was horrible and she deserves a bit more time enjoying the life she should have had all along.
Thank you.

LINDSAY & ERIN JOIN THE QUEST!

2011-09-05T11:39:00.000-07:00

I am very happy to introduce new members Erin and Lindsay.

Erin Rea joins us from Playa Del Rey, California, where she runs her two ETSY shops Modern Pet Portraits and Erin Rea Design. She brought 3 fantastic pieces with her like this white kitty portrait shown above.

"I'm a professional graphic designer who LOVES animals (especially my kitty Harlow). I'm so excited that I can combine that passion with my career, and create modern, custom pet portraits that make their owners smile every time they see them. I also want my shop to help animals: 10% of all sales will be donated to Much Love Animal Rescue. They're an organization dedicated to rescuing abused, neglected and homeless animals from the streets and shelters of Los Angeles and placing them in loving homes.

You can learn more about Erin and see more of her work at these links:

MODERN PET PORTRAITS
ERIN REA DESIGN ETSY SHOP
FACEBOOK

Wynnie (right-black and tan)

Lindsay has been a great supporter of the Project and a devoted reader of the blog. Now she joins us with some wonderful photographs of her dog Wynnie (shown above), her cat Catriana, and one of her cat patients.

"My name is Lindsay Wagner (yeah seriously that is my name!) and I'm 26 years old living in FL with my boyfriend and our menagerie of pets. I'm a full time veterinary technician and in my free time I enjoy hanging out with my boyfriend, friends and pets as well as doing a bit of photography, crafts, blogging, and general nerdiness. I like to make jewelry to sell on etsy and sew sometimes. I plan to begin donating $1 from every sale to an animal rescue fund (I've only sold one item so far, woo!)

Animal rescue is very important to me, I fully support No Kill Nation and any non profit rescue/shelter groups. I do a little bit of my own rescue/fostering as the animals find me (they tend to show up at my vet clinic, one was under my car!) with the help of the clinic and money from my own pocket.

I have 6 pets: two husky mixes Wynnie and River, two cats Catriana and EV, and two bearded dragons Ebeneezer and Kylie. Peace, Love, and Pawprints!"

You can learn more about Lindsay and see her jewelry at these links:

HER BLOG THE CRAFTIAFARIAN

(its how I see my life/how I want my life to be. I'm kind of a hippie, animal lover, nerd,

slightly introverted and sometimes eccentric.)

HER ETSY SHOP THE CRAFTIAFARIAN

TWITTER

FACEBOOK

Welcome Erin and Lindsay and thank you so much for sharing your talent with us to help animals in need. You both rock!

You can purchase Lindsay's card HERE and Erin's cards HERE.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER CHARITY

2011-08-31T19:51:00.000-07:00

Together we raised an amazing $407.10 for the House Rabbit Society Of Missouri! Round of applause everyone!!!
Thank you to all our artists, our supporters, and everyone who has helped spread the word about the Project and about the wonderful work of the rescuers at HRS!

The chosen charity for September/October is RescueCats, Inc. RescueCats is truly a no-kill facility and very proud of their accomplishments. Celebrating twelve years and 5239+ adoptions!

Crystal
RescueCats, Inc. located in Fayetteville, Georgia, is a nonprofit, state-licensed, no-kill group dedicated to rescuing owner released and homeless kittens and cats. They strive to prevent pet overpopulation through education and spay and neutering. They provide a safe and loving shelter until stable, the cats forever homes can be found.

Jill
RescueCats, Inc. is entirely volunteer run. Their rescued cats come from a wide variety of sources, including found strays, owner surrenders,but most are rescued from kill shelters. It has been said that "RescueCats cares for the animals like they are all their personal pets."

Spunky
You can learn more about them at these links:
WEBSITEFACEBOOK PETFINDER PAGE
We are excited to support the wonderful rescuers of RescueCats, Inc. and their fabulous felines.
To start shopping CLICK HERE

PROJECT TEES!

2011-08-28T12:37:00.000-07:00

We are very happy to announce the first Project Tees! HURRAH!

We have been working with Toni and Mark of RCTees to create the first of what we hope will be many t-shirts for the Project. And with the logo contest going on now, we expect to have some more totally awesome designs to choose from.

We selected RCTees because not only do they hand print each shirt, make a quality and very comfortable shirt, are really really nice people, but they also help animal causes! You can read more about them at these links...
THEIR ETSY SHOP & FACEBOOK.

We hope you like the design which was created just for the Project. We thought it was an inspiring message but still looks super cool! The shirts come in navy blue with a white logo and olive green with a black logo.

The Tees are only available at the blog store. The blog store is brand new and will be place you can buy Project logo gear.
There is a bear button to the right just under our ETSY shop button. Or you can just click HERE.

WILD WEST CATS FAVORITE WATERING HOLE

2011-08-27T14:23:00.000-07:00

I am very happy to introduce our new member Feline Rescue Of Northern Nevada.

Marmy

Susan of Feline Rescue Of Northern Nevada joins us with her cats from out West. FRONN is located in Verdi, Nevada just a skip away from Reno. There Susan and Gary have built an oasis for the cats of their community. The FRONN sanctuary is a limited admissions private facility for elderly, disabled & special needs cats. They do NOT euthanize to make room for new arrivals. The sanctuary provides a warm, loving, and safe haven for cats awaiting their adoption and for those who may never find their forever home.

Feline Rescue Of Northern Nevada is a non-profit organization striving to make their community a better place for cats. Their mission is to end euthanasia by providing quality of life for elderly, injured, special needs and otherwise unwanted cats. They also helps with Spay/Neuter assistance and helping feed the community's feral cats.

Kiwi (cancer survivor and now one cute tripod kitty)

I have worked with Susan and Gary in the past and have to say that they are completely devoted to their cause and are wonderful people to work with. The Project is happy to have them join our community of amazing rescuers and artists.

You can read more about FRONN at these links:

WEB SITE
FACEBOOK

You can purchase the FRONN cards HERE

THE TEAL CAT PROJECT

2011-08-26T13:43:00.000-07:00

I was visiting new member Em & Sprout's blog and enjoying myself with all the great reads. Then I read about The Teal Cat Project. How fabulous is this!

For $25 (plus shipping) you will get a unique and stylish teal cat. That money goes directly towards their affiliated kitty cat rescue programs. Each cat is upcycled with teal paint, and outfitted with a numbered tag for authenticity.

Teal cats are only available during certain times of the year. Each campaign lasts until the cats are all sold, and after that you’ll have to wait a few months for the next campaign, and our new batch of cats. Each campaign will support a new TNR group, in a whole new city!

If you can't wait for the next campaign you can always buy a groovy tee. I ordered mine today!

It is a fantastic project and so fun! You can learn more about them on their WEBSITE.

EM & SPROUT BRING KITTEN MAGIC

2011-08-26T13:13:00.001-07:00

Please welcome new member Lindsay.

Magical Kitten Paws

Lindsay joins us from Southern California where she runs Em & Sprout, her ETSY shop. She shares with us two fantastical feline illustrations.

"I LOVE CATS. I love cats so much sometimes I feel like I'll burst in their presence! Right now I have two kitties named Em & Sprout and they are the loves of my life! The majority of my art is inspired by animals because they are magical and I can't imagine life without them. I enjoy creating art, reading, eating, and enjoying all the silly things that life has to offer. "

Be sure to visit the Em & Sprout shop where you will find Kawaii art, tees, shoes, and more.

Also be sure to visit these links:
FACEBOOK
BLOG

Thank you so much Lindsay, Em, and Sprout, for joining our global community and for helping animals in need. You all rock!

You can purchase the Em & Sprout cards in the Project shop HERE.

WILD HORSES COULDN'T KEEP WAUTUCKQUES AWAY

2011-08-26T12:26:00.000-07:00

I am happy to introduce new member Wautuckques Sochepo.

ESCAPE

Wautuckques joins us with 4 fantastic drawings of horses and a groovy block print of a zebra. Wautuckques lives in Monponsett, Massachusetts.

"I am a Native American from the Narragansett and Mashpee Tribes. I enjoy bead work, cross-stitch, as well as painting and drawing."

Visit the SnowRabbitmck ETSY shop to see some amazing bead work and more.

Thank you so much Wautuckques for joining us in our quest to help animals in need. You rock!

You can purchase Wautuckques's cards in the Project shop HERE.

THE GANGS ALL HERE

2011-08-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

Introducing new member Brittany.

Iggy

"Dear FARP, Hello - I found you on etsy first and love the project."
That is how we met Brittany and are very excited to have her join us!

Brittany lives in Englewood, Florida, where she runs her ETSY shop called Calamity Crow Studio. Sharing her home is Iggy the chinchilla, Fritter the rabbit, and two Corgis names Kirby and Zelda.

"Iggy, is a rescue. He was dropped off at a shelter that had never had a chinchilla before and he got fleas on his ears while there. That rescue was only about an hour from us. A chinchilla rescue almost five hours away on the opposite coast of FL eventually picked him up and he had to have a hole cut out of his ear deu to an infection caused by one of the flea bites. When we found him and fell in love, that rescue was nice enough to drive him all the way back to our coast for us. He has been with us almost two years now and I cannot praise the work of rescues enough. Without the hard work of both the rescues who cared for him, we wouldn't have such a lovely little boy to amuse us everyday."

Iggy is one lucky little guy as well as the rest of the gang to have found a loving home with Brittany. And we are lucky to have them join us here at the Project.

Be sure to check out Calamity Crow Studio for Brittany's unique paper crafts.
CLICK HERE

You can purchase Iggy, Fritter, Kirby, and Zelda's cards in the Project shop HERE.

MOR-A FROM FUNKY LAURA

2011-08-22T13:49:00.001-07:00

Project member Laura added some new images to her listing in the Project shop like this fun Buddhist monkey above.

Laura is a recycle and spiritual artist from Highsprings, Florida. Laura has been a display artist, a make-up artist, a floral designer, to mention a few hats she has worn. She spends Saturdays hunting garage sales and flea markets for anything she can pull apart and redesign.

You can see more of her creations at her three shops....

Funky Laura
Funky Luke
You And Me Go Green

CLICK HERE to beam over and see more of Laura's groovy work.

WE DO WHAT WE CAN

2011-08-22T08:12:00.000-07:00

Many people who shop at the Project store write to share who much they love what we are doing and how inspired they are by our global community of animal lovers. You can read a lot of their compliments in the feedback left on ETSY.

Recently, Retagene who bought some of our cards, shared some photos of her beloved cats.

"I've attached a picture of 2 of 3 of my own rescue kitties. I have caught 9 very feral cats and had them neutered and released. Once upon a time I was a vet tech."

Abby and Aubrey

"Abby (the white cat shown above) adopted us by running up to me and my husband while we were taking a late night walk in our foothills where coyotes come down regularly. There was no way I was going to leave her there and I carried her home. Aubrey (shown above) was part of a litter that was taken in by a local woman who rescues and finds homes for kitties."

Red Cat

"I also have an older cat who chased off all my ferals and insisted on joining our household. He looks like a Norweigen forest cat...big fluffy orange and white. We call him Red Cat. He spends most of his time here in my cottage/studio."

"We do what we can!" says Retagene. Indeed!

Helping animals is our main focus but one of the greatest perks from doing so is hearing from people like Retagene and many others who "get" what we are doing and support us. We are all doing what we can to make a difference in the lives of animals. Everyone's effort matters!

Thanks to all our customers for shopping with us and for your support. You rock!

Visit Retagene's ETSY shop Neutral.

LOOKING FOR A NEW MAN IN YOUR LIFE?

2011-08-19T15:47:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for love here are a few fantastic guys that will win your heart over and treat you right!

They are currently in the care of the awesome rescue groups who belong to the Project.

Remmy

Labrador Retriever Mix
Precious Paws Rescue
Located in Barrie, ON, Canada
Adult Male

This gorgeous boy is Remmy! Bet you've never seen a dog with such a beautiful colour to him! Remmy is a 9 year old Lab mix who came to Precious Paws from the Timmins Humane Society when they ran out of space at the shelter. He is now awaiting his perfect forever home!

Remmy has excellent house manners and is very well crate trained - he doesn't whine or bark at all in his kennel. He is fully housetrained and LOVES to go for walks. Remmy will keep himself entertained with a bone if you have things to do and when you're ready - he'd love to get out for a good hike! Due to his hound nature - Remmy does like to run and he can climb a fence pretty quickly too, so going out on leash is a must for this boy.

Remmy knows his basic commands and gets along wonderfully with most other dogs too. He would prefer an adult only home or a home with older children as he's in his senior years now and a quieter home would be ideal. Like any Lab/Hound mix - the key to Remmy's heart is through his stomach - he loves treats! We thought about sending him out with a sign "Will work for TREATS!" but luckily we have enough to keep him going until he finds his perfect home.

Remmy is hypothyroid which means that he gets a thyroid pill twice a day, the medication is not very expensive at all and he will go to his new home with a 3 month supply to get you started!

If you think Remmy is the right guy for you CLICK HERE.

Lionel
Kitty Bungalow Charm School For Wayward Cats
Located in Los Angeles, California
Kitten Male

Lionel is a beautiful orange tabby cat. He is a bit shy, but loves to have his chin rubbed and to cuddle up with the baby kittens in the Bungalow. This sweet little boy is looking for a lot of love in his new forever home!

CLICK HERE if you would like Lionel to move in to your heart.

John
Magic Happen Rabbit Rescue
Located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Male

John was found trying to hop into a house and was turned in to the St. John animal control. After his 5 day hold, MHRR took John in to help him start looking for his own home!

John is an outgoing and social guy to just about everybody! He hops right up to you and will stick his nose up in the air to be petted. He's easy-going and already using a litterbox pretty well. He does not like being picked up though, and gets shy at adoption days, but once back at home and in his comfort zone, he's as friendly as the family dog.

If John sounds like your kind of guy CLICK HERE.

Noah
Lucky Dog Rescue
Located in Meridian, Mississippi
Male, Pit Bull Mix

Noah has lived a real hard life. He was used as a “bait dog” in dogfighting. His captors would tape up his mouth and let the other dogs attack him. Then he was dumped in the street to die. Noah was picked up by the pound with little life in him. But lucky for Noah he was saved by Ashley of Lucky Dog Rescue. Now he is happy and looking for someone to love him forever!

He has been neutered, heartworm treated, vaccinated, and dewormed. They also have to do surgery on his nasal cavity, because the bite wounds crushed his nose. But pretty soon he be good as new!

Noah loves to run and play in the yard, but also wants to be right by your side! He is not a huge fan of other pups right now, so it may be best if he is the only dog in the home. That way, he can have all the love to himself!

If you love a guy that has been through the "wars" but would rther snuggle then Noah is waiting for you. CLICK HERE

Osirus
Animal House Rescue
Elko, Nevada
Male

Osirus is a very sweet guy. He is solid white and he can see and hear just fine. He is pretty calm, well behaved. Seems to get along fine with the other dogs and cats. He'll climb into your lap for love and he's quite a talker.

Osirus has a food allergy we're still working on. He gets hot spots from time to time, but they don't seem to bother him.

Is Osirus your knight in "white fur"? CLICK HERE

You can help support these wonderful rescue groups by shopping at the Project shop HERE

HAVE YOURSELF A BADGER CHRISTMAS

2011-08-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to share the newest Holiday card with you all.....

This festive Badger Holiday card was design for The Fabulous Animal Rescue Project by Nicola Rowlands.

Nicola is a designer/illustrator from Manchester, UK. Her work has can be found in shops throughout the UK and the USA. She has had fabulous exhibits and has created pieces for Blanket Magazine, Sideburn Magazine, and more. She recently was asked by ETSY to design a tile for their twitter background.

This is the second design that Nicola has created for the Project. The first is this awesome rescue design below. We adore them both!

You can learn more and see more about Nicola at these links:

WEB SITE
ETSY SHOP
FACEBOOK
SOCIETY6 SHOP
ENVELOPE SHOP

We are building a wonderful collection of holiday cards in the Project shop. Cards that not only give folks warm fuzzy feelings but also give hope to animals in need. CLICK HERE

BUNNIES & A YAK

2011-08-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

I am happy to introduce two new members of the Project.... Nakisha and Margie.

"Helping From The Boat"

Nakisha joins us from Seattle, Washington, with this sweet piece "Helping From The Boat". Nakisha has been making animal art since her earliest memory.

"Born in California and growing up on a tree farm in rural New York State, her childhood was filled with art and animals. “Dog” was her first word and her teen years were spent riding her beloved horse, Fox. Her creative parents encouraged her first two passions, art and nature, which she continues to focus on today.

She attended college in New York's Finger Lakes region on a full scholarship, learning computer animation, sculpture techniques, painting, and writing. She earned a degree in Sculpture. After graduation she worked for a glass blower while creating graphic novels and elaborate ink drawings.

In 1993 she moved to Seattle where she learned web design and worked as the webmaster and artist liaison for a woodworking cooperative. Today she shows her sculptures and paintings at regional galleries, sells her artwork to clients around the world, and lives with an assortment of adopted animals. Ironically, she does not own any rabbits."

You can learn more about Nakisha and see more of her wonderful work at these sites:
WEB SITE
ETSY SHOP
TWITTER
FACEBOOK
CAFEPRESS
FLICKR

Yak

This amazing Yak, which is the Project's first Yak ever, is brought to us by Margie Criner of Red-Belly. Margie and her beloved dog Cassady hail from Chicago, Illinois. Margie has a formal education in textile design, a career education in graphics, and a lifetime of illustration.

"I am an artist in Chicago. I work from the heart with the intention of delivering product that has a spirit of play and strength of character. I feel we are all connected to one another in some way. Animals appearing in my work are given a new narrative. I do this to emphasize similarities between humans and all living things. I want the viewer to relate to the animal, whether through humor, familiarity, or absurdity."

"Cassady is a mutt - german shepherd, border collie, cocker spaniel. She looks a lot like Max from the Grinch. Even after 13 years, her intellect continues to blow my mind. Spending much time in her head, she problem solves, worries, and I swear she rolls her eyes at me. She is always ready to explore the neighborhood streets in Chicago, but loves a visit to the country where she can run freely and herd something."

You can see more work by Margie a.k.a. Red-Belly at these sites:
ETSY SHOP
FACEBOOK

Thank you so much Nakisha and Margie for sharing your fantastic work with us and joining our quest to end the needless suffering of animals.

You can see Margie's card HERE and Nakisha's card HERE.

PET365 DOGS VS HUMANS

2011-08-14T19:23:00.000-07:00

Created by Pet365 - a UK supplier of pet accessories. Click here to view the full post.

CANVAS CRITTERS

2011-08-13T12:15:00.001-07:00

I usually do not post about my own work on this here blog but I am pretty excited about my new paintings and thought you might be too.

SAVE THE RHINO

I have been working on a new series of paintings dedicated to the animal rescue groups I stand with. As an artist I am usually cash poor. I use my art and time to help raise the money I don't have to give. So half the proceeds of each of these paintings will be donated to the group featured in the painting. For example Lucky Dog Rescue below and Save the Rhino above.

LUCKY DOG RESCUE

I have more in the works with some featuring cats of course!

If you want to take a closer look just click HERE.

Ok back to our regular scheduled programming :D

BECKY BRINGS THE SUNSHINE

2011-08-12T15:45:00.000-07:00

Welcome new member Becky WIlliams.

This fantastic design was created for the Project by Becky Williams of The Pink Puppy Paper Company. Becky lives in the Chicagoland area. She designs from home while taking care of her unfurry children Laney and Ryson and her furry child Banks, a Jack/Pit mix.

"I love my family, designing, animals, and the Chicago Cubs."

You can see more of Becky's designs in her two ETSY shops

Pink Puppy Paper Company
and
Plan B Designs

You can purchase this special design in the Project shop HERE.

We are so excited to have Becky and her wonderful design with in the Project. Thank you Becky for joining our cause to help animals in need. You rock!

GINA'S GANG

2011-08-11T19:53:00.001-07:00

Chloe

Gina of Mystical Enchantments added some new images to her listing featuring some more of her lovely brood and the handsome Rocco, her sister in-laws Shepherd.

Cloe above is 13 years old and was a stray before finding her way into Gina's family. You can also see new photos of Peanut,
Rocco, Oreo Cakester, Cookie Dough, and Sheba.

CLICK HERE to beam over to the shop and see them all.

Be sure to visit Gina's ETSY shop Mystical Enchantments for some fantastic Halloween treats!

SUPER GROOVY AND FANTASTICALLY FUN LOGO CONTEST

2011-08-07T11:46:00.000-07:00

Announcing our first ever logo contest! HURRAH!
Mischa

The Project is growing bigger and bigger and so do our plans to expand the selection in the Project shop and for promotion stuff. The more we offer the more we can help animals!
One of our plans for the shop is to sell tote bags and tee shirts. Pretty cool huh? We want the Project to reflect the diversity of talent that makes it so unique. So we thought who else to turn to for some new logos but our brilliant members.
How this will work......
There will be one design selected as the main winner. That person will receive a merriment of prizes and a special promotional post about them and their work on the blog. Plus the fame and glory of winning a contest.
All other entries (with artists permission of course) may be used at a later date. We wish we could give you all prizes for undoubtably you will all deserve them. What we can give you instead is free promotion for your art and of course you will have the gratitude of animals world wide for providing an awesome way to help them.
Here are all the details:

RULES

Your design must be your own.
Your design must include at least one animal in it.
Your design must include these words exactly "The Fabulous Animal Rescue Project".
Your Design must be one color (for printing reasons).
You can have your name in the design if you wish.
You can enter as many designs as you wish.
There are no geographical restrictions, all are invited to join in.
You do not have to be an existing member of the Project but you should join us because the Project is awesome.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW
Entering the contest means you understand that....

You allow your designs to be used for the Project products and for promotion online.
You release any financial claim to your designs.
Proceeds made from any design will be used for raising funds to keep the Project going. For example, supplies, to help pay for tee shirts and totes, promotional supplies, and so on. Nothing will be kept for profit. All money made from logo sales will be put back into the Project.
There will be one winner for this contest but all entries may be used at a later date. If you do not win and wish us not to use your design please be sure to say so.

PRIZES FOR THE WINNER

$50.00 cash prize.
A tote or tee shirt with your design. (as soon as they are printed)
Magnets, buttons, pocket mirrors, and postcards featuring your design.
1 "print" from Alison Fennel's shop (excluding the Moon Bear Prints)
1 "print" from Tammi Creations Shop
Fame & Glory

HOW TO ENTER THE CONTEST

Email your entries HERE

Be sure to:

Tell us who you are.
Where you hail from.
Web site or online shop
Permission or not to use your design no matter the results of the contest
Send your image in a jpg form. (waiting to hear from the artists who will be making our shirts for size and file form they need. Meanwhile a jpg will be great )

The contest will run until the end of October. It may seem like a long time, but we do not want to rush creativity.
If you have question feel free to CONTACT US
We look forward to all the amazing designs you will come up with. Thank you so much for helping us help animals in need!

LIFE IS BETTER RESCUE IS EASY ON THE EYES

2011-08-03T11:31:00.000-07:00

Paisley taken by Jenny Froh

Project member Life Is Better Rescue added some new photographs to their listings like this amazing picture of little Paisley. Paisley is a dane mix puppy that was saved from euthanasia after testing positive for parvo. She was saved with her sister Portia. Their dedicated foster mom nursed both girls through the illness and they have since gone up for adoption. Treating the illness for the entire litter was close to $2,000. Saving their lives was priceless.

This photo was taken by Jenny Froh who was the girls foster mum. Jenny is also a professional photographer and has given the Project permission to use her stunning photographs featuring some of the rescued pets at Life Is Better Rescue. You can see more of Jenny's work on her web site
Jenny Froh Photography.

Butler taken by Christopher Murdock

Butler is one of many Turkish Angora kittens that were released to rescue from a defunct breeding program. At the time, the owner dumped 18 cats of various ages and temperaments at the vet to have them all euthanized. Life is Better Rescue stepped forward, got everyone vetted, sterilized, and eventually adopted.

This photo was taken by Christopher Murdock. Christopher is another amazing photographer that was allowed us to use his work to help the animals of Life Is Better Rescue.

LIB has three listings in the Project shop one that features the photography of Jenny Froh. CLICK HERE.

One that features the photography of Christopher Murdock. CLICK HERE

And one that features a mixture of Photographers. CLICK HERE.

All three benefit the dogs, cats, and even mice of Life Is Better Rescue, a wonderful rescue group located in Lakewood, Colorado, serving those animals most at risk - those in danger of euthanasia, pregnant or nursing animals, and orphans too young or small to be adopted.

THE ADORABLE ANIMAL AWARDS

2011-08-01T12:53:00.001-07:00

Guest blogger Emma

"As a world comprised of animal lovers, we all love to hear of instances where animals and humans interacting together in positive (and especially comedic) ways. This concise collection showcases the very best of such animal stories, and nearly all of them are instantly rewarded with an "aww" by anyone who reads it. The Adorable Animal Awards not only feature a touch of alliteration, but are full to the brim of wonderful and heart-warming stories."

To view the entire list of 8 awards including Most Loyal, Interspecies Love, and more CLICK HERE