Tag Archives: Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic

Cat of the week: Billy

Billy has turned over a new leaf

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).

 


This big, bold, beautiful boy with the sultry, slight pout initially came to us back in the summer of 2011, a stray that had been wandering around Eastown sowing his wild oats. He tested positive for FIV, so he was transferred to us from Focus on Ferals and headed on down to our sanctuary. He turned out to be such a lovable lug that it was no surprise when one of our volunteers and her husband took a shine to the terrific tabby—and took him home. Billy, Allison and David lived happily together in a home full of love and many other cats, all of whom Billy got along famously well with; even though he was quite large at 15 pounds, he didn’t try to be in charge, instead allowing the little ladies in the household to run the show.


Over the years, Billy (born in late summer of 2008) made a few trips to the clinic to be treated for a common inflammatory condition known as plasma cell stomatitis, something FIV cats are unfortunately prone too. We were able to manage his illness by extracting all of his teeth except his canines, and periodically with steroids . But in late 2016, it was quite apparent that not only was this physical problem starting to really affect his behavior negatively, but the birth of a human baby had also set him off-kilter. Sadly, Billy started lashing out at the others in the home, and misdirected his aggression towards the baby; his folks had no choice but to relinquish custody back to us at Big Sid’s.


When he arrived at the clinic on Dec. 1, he and Dr. Jen had a good, long heart-to-heart and she issued an ultimatum: he had to behave at Sid’s because we were his last chance. We encouraged him to embrace his return with open arms (er, paws) and to make the best of the situation, because if he did, he would experience comfort and camaraderie that would hopefully take the place of the only family he had probably ever known.


We’re not sure exactly how much Billy actually understood, but we’d would like to think that he turned over a new leaf because from the get-go; he has been nothing but a purr-fect gentleman in every sense of the word! When our cat care director learned of his return and got to spend some time with him, she had this to say:


“This cat reminds me of the bar he was initially named for—Eastown Billy’s—as he should be singing the blues, having been returned to the shelter, but NO—he is rocking it! He fit right back in like he had never left the premises, and has been so incredibly sweet to the volunteers and the other cats alike!”

More about Billy


NOTE: A $825 grant from Lil BUB’s Big Fund for the ASPCA will enable Crash’s Landing & Big Sid’s Sanctuary, to fund comprehensive exams for five Big Sid’s Sanctuary cats before going to their new home. Each exam would include a full blood panel, dental care, radiographs, urinalysis, antibiotics and pain medication, if needed. Big Sid’s caters exclusively to cats who test positive for FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) or FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus). FIV and FeLV are viruses that can, if they flare up, suppress a cat’s immune system. The shelter takes cats with FIV or FeLV from all over Michigan.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Butters

Who could possibly resist that face?

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).

 

In October of 2017, volunteer and one-woman-rescue-machine Sandi D. came out to the clinic with her latest charge, although it was literally two years in the making—so the trip was quite the momentous occasion! Born in the spring of 2014, Butters was hard-pressed to become domesticated and really didn’t care for the company of other cats whatsoever, which made Sandi’s job of rehabbing and rehoming him all the more difficult. In fact, she wasn’t able to gain his trust enough to have him neutered until this fall, so by the time we were able to take him into our program in November, he was sporting some pretty chubby cheeks.

 

It took several weeks for Butters to be, well, buttered up into fully immersing himself in the Crash’s experience, however, once he figured out that indoor life was pretty darn awesome, he simply melted into the warm and comforting arms of the volunteers—and we discovered how much this big boy likes being carried around like a baby. He morphed from a shy guy to an attention-grabbing, affection-hogging hunk o’cat! When people aren’t around he is more than content to just chill on the windowsill and watch the birds, but his real passion is anything and everything HUMAN!

 

He would do very well in a home with others of the feline kind, but honestly, as long as there is at least one person to offer him a lap to lay on and a shoulder to rest his head on whilst being cradled in enveloping arms, he will think he is in heaven! Really, his wish list is pretty basic and minimal, so it shouldn’t be difficult to grant him what he desires.

More about Butters


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Adoptable cat of the week: Beverly Leslie

Beverly Leslie will absolutely thrive in a place where cuddles and snuggles are plentiful — and who wouldn’t want to cuddle that adorable face?

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).

 

Here are the Cliff notes version of Beverly Leslie’s tale of woe and wonder. The frail but fabulous four-year-old (born in late 2013) was found hanging around the Wyoming condo of two of our volunteers in late October, but they weren’t able to wrangle her until two weeks later. Beverly Leslie’s initial laundry list of issues included being bloated due to a presumed pregnancy, a flea infestation, severe gingivitis and a rip-roaring bilateral ear infection secondary to untreated ear mites that ended up rupturing both eardrums.

 

A week later she was healthy enough to take to surgery to spay her where Dr. Jen discovered that the kitty was suffering from a uterine infection (no babies thankfully). At that time Dr. Jen also flushed out Beverly Leslie’s infected ear canals which unfortunately led to a complicated upper respiratory infection involving her nasal passages; this caused excessive post-nasal drip and literally weeks of batting fevers, drainage and a helluva roller-coaster ride of recuperation.

 

When Dr. Jen took her back to surgery on Nov. 27 to again address kitty’s aural issues, yet another problem presented itself: Beverly Leslie had developed nasopharyngeal polyps in both middle ears, further complicating her recovery; removal was a success but her white blood cell count was astronomically high due to the chronic nature of her conditions.

 

Thankfully with Christmas came the return of her health, and Dr. Jen was able to allow Beverly Leslie to take her hard-won spot on our adoption list!

 

In spite of everything, this darling little lady never squawked or complained, taking her nose wiping and temperature taking like the fierce warrior princess she is! Small yet feisty, she got her name from that quirky yet beloved character on the TV show Will & Grace, and let me tell you, she is a force to be reckoned with, as nothing keeps her down for long! She loves, loves, LOVES people and simply cannot get enough of their attention! It took her quite some time to adjust and accept the other kitties as her roomies, but once she did, she made a few furry friends.

 

Beverly Leslie will absolutely thrive in a place where cuddles and snuggles are plentiful and would most definitely do great with kids. We can tell you that she will receive a marvelous send off, once it is finally time for her to pack her bags and go home; if anyone deserves it, it is our magnificent marmalade Bev Les!

More about Beverly Leslie


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Adoptable cat of the week: Captain Kidd

Captain Kidd has 21 toes!

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).

 

On Oct. 2, 2017, this totally adorable, 21-toed, intact male was unceremoniously dumped on the doorstep of our shelter, in a filthy travel carrier with a note attached. Evidently he was thought to be suffering from a urinary blockage and his owners couldn’t afford to have him treated, so instead of asking for help, they left him behind in the hopes that we would: 1) be able to care for him and 2) have the space to accommodate him once his medical issues were addressed.

 

As luck would have it, even though the unexpected addition of 2-1/2 year old Captain Kidd (Dr. Jen’s name for the handsome bloke who was born in the spring of 2015) put us up over our acceptable head count, he wasn’t afflicted by a urinary tract blockage but rather a non-infectious, inflammatory condition of his bladder.

 

Dr. Jen suspects that Kiddo was showing symptoms of discomfort and either straining to pee, producing bloody urine or going outside of the box. His issues have been simply remedied by neutering him, making sure his daily water intake is increased by feeding him canned food, and inexpensive medical management in the form of twice weekly anti-inflammatory tablets that he takes like a champ. And his litter box manners are something to behold, as he is a proud piddler and uses those massive mitts to cover his business when all is said and done.

 

Captain Kidd is not only drop-dead gorgeous but he is HILARIOUS! He is always in the thick of things, sticking his nose (and those toes) into anything and everything he isn’t supposed to! He is like our very own Energizer Bunny and he cracks us up with his playful antics and his zany, kitten-like behavior.

 

He gets along famously well with the other kitties at Crash’s but in all honesty he wouldn’t have to go into a multi-cat household; as long as he is the center of attention and has plenty to keep him occupied (think rambunctious children or perhaps even a boisterous canine companion), he is absolutely going to make a fabulously fun addition to any family that is fortunate enough to end up with him! And c’mon, those tootsies alone are simply stupendous!

More about Captain Kidd


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Adoptable cat of the week: Nessarose

Nessarose

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


On October 27th, 2016, we got a call at the clinic from a Meals On Wheels worker who was out and about and came across this hungry, flea-ridden little lady who was hungry for human contact even more than she was craving food. A kindhearted volunteer scooped her up and took her home, offered her some tasty treats and then tried to figure out what exactly to do with her. The cat appeared to have an injured rear leg and her paws looked odd, so the volunteer thought it best to seek help from Dr. Jen.


Although we really didn’t have any extra room at our facility, turning away a cat in need of medical care just isn’t anything Dr. Jen is comfortable with, so she said to bring the kitty on in. Thankfully, the injury sustained to kitty’s left rear leg was minor, and the pododermatitis (or ‘pillow foot’ as it is commonly called) affecting all four foot/toe pads is easily treatable if actively inflamed or painful. Since her tootsies weren’t bothering her, the condition was noted and would be monitored.


Dr. Jen set about treating the kitty for fleas and a mild case of flea allergy dermatitis, spayed the 2-1/2 year old (born in the spring of 2015) and got her program-ready.


Once at Crash’s, Nessarose immediately took to the volunteers. In the words of our cat care director: “What a doll! Nessarose just can’t get close enough to people. Whenever you pick her up, she snuggles up and burrows to the point of almost crawling inside of your clothing — and never wants to be put down. She loves everything about shelter life, especially the never-ending supply of volunteers to cuddle with her. She also makes feline friends eagerly. She really doesn’t need to go into a home with other cats though — as long as there are plenty of people to give her attention — but since she thrives on physical contact, another kitty to claim as her BFF would be fabulous”.


You really couldn’t find yourself a nicer cat than Nessarose, so seriously consider doing something wickedly wonderful by welcoming this darling, delightful girl into your heart and home!

More about Nessarose


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Zillah

Meet gorgeous, gray Zillah!

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


In early Jan. 2017, one of our volunteers came across a stunning but profoundly, shy gray girl at a feral feeding station in downtown Grand Rapids. Born in early 2013, this poor soul ended up a shadow dweller, hiding out in the darkness until night fell, then scrambling out for a quick bite before scurrying off to safety.

 

After observing the volunteer diligently at work day after day, supplying all the cats with canned food, the stray finally gained enough courage to crash on through the dishes one day, knocking everything over in order to get to the yummy wet food — and amazingly allowed herself to be petted while she gobbled down with gusto and delight. It took a bit longer until Zillah — whose name means ’shadow’ — could be convinced to come to our clinic. Once she arrived, she was spayed, treated for intestinal parasites, tested (negative–YAY!) and vaccinated. Zillah spent a month at the volunteer’s home getting acclimated to indoor living, then came down to Crash’s to spend a month with us before heading off to another foster home that offered a bit more peace and quiet.

 

Zillah’s foster mom, Sara wrote up a synopsis of her emerging personality, as the longer she is with Sara, the bolder she becomes and the brighter she shines. Here are the sweet things Sara had to say about her timid little lady:

 

“Zillah spent most of her time in the corner of her open cage in Intake while at Crash’s, not wanting a thing to do with anyone — cat or human. In her foster room (with companion Moriarity) she has gone from hiding all of the time to sitting in a cat bed looking out the window. She loves being petted all over, even her sleek belly and, of course, is absolutely wild about wet food, tolerating tummy rubs while chowing down to her heart’s content.

 

Here, Zillah sports a pensive look

“Her favorite toy is a bird on a stick and she will jump extremely high to catch that little bugger! It has been an absolute delight teaching her all about treats, as so many strays are unfamiliar with them and don’t understand quite how to take them from a person’s fingers; she licks away at the hard kibble until she finally takes it in through the side of her mouth and looks up beseechingly for more! She does NOT like being picked up at all and is not, at least at the writing of this bio in April, a lap cat. She will sit close and allow you to stroke her sleek coat, which is one of our favorite pastimes.”

 

We are all so very proud of how far Zillah has come in such a short time! We are looking forward to watching her blossom as spring turns into summer and she finds comfort and security where she is planted.

More about Zillah


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Nigella

Beautiful Nigella

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


On July 11th, 2016, Dr. Jen received this email from a wonderful gal, Kate, who is doing her part to help out the homeless cats in her neighborhood:

“Hi, Dr Jen, I feed a feral colony and end up attracting friendly strays from time to time. I’ve brought some to you in the past and I swear the minute I bring in one, another one appears. I always wait to see if they hang around or seem to have a home, but for the past 6 weeks this grey female has been basically living on my porch. At first she was scared but now she is very friendly; she has been looking more and more sickly with her fur very unkempt, and also she’s getting skinnier … she’s not doing well and she is not comfortable in my house. …”

It took a few weeks before we had an opening, but in the meantime, Kate combed an entire cat’s worth of matted fur off of her 3-year-old rescue (born in the summer of 2013) and managed to fatten her up a bit. Dr. Jen discovered the reason why kitty wasn’t eating or grooming herself that well was because she had two bad teeth that needed to be extracted AND she was also losing weight from having chronic diarrhea. Tests revealed she was internal parasite-free, so Dr. Jen suspected the loose stools were from the fact that kitty was eating more soupy canned food versus dry kibble. In any case, Dr. Jen was able to get the kitty’s medical issues under control, and a few days after her arrival, this incredibly sweet but painfully shy girl made her way down to Crash’s.

Nigella has a soft, gentle purr and is quick to roll over for belly rubs once she feels comfy, but as soon as anything startles her she high-tails it back to her safe place. It goes without saying that Nigella will need a very quiet, stable home environment to flourish in; she will require a person with patience to allow her to come into her own at the pace she sets for herself. She will need a room to herself, at least initially, as Nigella is all about taking baby steps towards her goal of becoming a brave soul.


Nigella, after a good brushing

After a month at the shelter, she still wasn’t ready to leave the cozy confines of our intake suite, so we let her guide us as to when she was ready to roam. The nice thing about our facility is that there are no time limits or constraints, and every single cat can acclimate and adjust according to his or her own comfort level.


We strive to make the Crash’s experience a positive one for everyone, tailoring it to meet individual needs. It doesn’t matter to us how long it takes.

More about Nigella


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Sparky

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


Sparky is a lovely cat, ready and eager for his forever home

When you take a gander at this gorgeous gray-and-white guy’s photo, you would have no idea that upon arrival back in October of 2015, his cheek and jaw were a swollen, infected mess. A victim of a nasty cat bite—a common occurrence in intact males— this 4-year-old (born in the spring of 2013) was suffering from a huge pocket of pus teeming with bacteria that caused a terribly high fever (105.7 degrees).


If it weren’t for the kindhearted Wyoming woman who cared for him for over six months noticing that something was awry, Uncle Fester (as he was named then) would have become even more ill than he was, risking widespread infection and devastating tissue damage. As luck would have it, Dr. Jen was able to surgically drain and flush the abscess and treat with heavy-duty antibiotics and pain medication; within a few hours his body temperature had normalized and Fester was no longer festering but eagerly filling his face with yummy canned food.

Further exam showed a previous injury that caused avulsion of his right thumb and a mild flea infestation, but both of those paled in comparison to that erupting volcano of goo and gore!

After a few days of rinsing, rest and relaxation, our beautiful boy was ready to make his way down to Crash’s, where he settled in nicely, totally digging his new surroundings and being doted on hand and foot. It didn’t take him long to win over the volunteers and roomies alike, and within a few short weeks of his arrival, he was out and about, meeting everyone who came to visit our shelter and charming them with his quiet sophistication and sultry good looks. He proved to be a very busy boy that involves himself in any activity happening around him—he loves being in the middle of the action!

Given his bubbly, outgoing nature, he wasn’t with us for a lengthy time period, and soon resided in a family home where he had tons of fun with the kids and adults alike. However, in late June of of 2017, Sparky (as he was renamed) ended up back with us due to unfortunate circumstances beyond his control; although his humans were so very sad to have to return him to us, rest assured he readjusted to life in our free-roaming facility, getting reacquainted with old friends—and making many new ones!

Sparky is an all-around good guy—adventurous and energetic yet gentle and sweet , all rolled up into one stunning perfect companion style package; we have no doubts that we will be able to send him into a home of his own again soon—and hopefully this time forever!
More about Sparky:

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the Week: Jamie

Gorgeous Jamie wants a home of his own

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


It is typically not an easy task for a pet owner to come to the realization that he or she has to return their beloved Crash Cat to us, especially when the kitty in question has been a family member for years, so when an owner contacts us, we try to get as much information as possible so we can make the transition as smooth as possible for both human and feline alike.

 


We were contacted in mid-August of 2017 because Jamie (formerly known as Phillie) found himself in this unfortunate situation, and in all honesty, we were a bit concerned as to how he would do back at our free-roaming facility, considering he was adopted out over 5-1/2 years prior, and had been the only cat in a household with two adults. But, with his owner becoming a single pet mom and having to travel more than she was home, we all felt it was best to take him back into our furry fold.

Jovial little Jamie, who was born in January of 2008, came in to see Dr. Jen at the clinic before being transferred on down to Crash’s. Dr. Jen did a complete work up on him, since he is now a senior citizen, though quite the spritely one at that. Unfortunately she discovered that he was suffering from early-stage kidney disease and a kidney stones as well; best-case scenario was that infection was causative, but a less likely underlying issue.


At the writing of this biography (early September), he is in the midst of receiving broad-spectrum antibiotics for a total of 6 weeks, just in case bacterial invasion has seeded his unsuspecting kidneys, and he has been put on unlimited canned food to help increase the water content to his diet, flush toxins from building up and also put weight back on his thin frame.


However, don’t fret too much, as he is one helluva happy camper who mingled, meshed and made himself right at home with the other residents almost immediately, which is utterly amazing! Here is what our cat care director had to say about our terrific tuxedo:


“Jamie adjusted so, so well. It only took him a few hours to start exploring, which is pretty good for a cat that had been in a home for so many years. He is very social now and greets everyone who walks in to the shelter. He doesn’t care about the other cats at all, so he could live with or without them. He also talks — a lot!”


And although we fully realize placing an elderly cat with kidney disease in a home is going to be challenging, Jamie is up for it!


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the Week: Heihei

Hey! It’s Heihei!

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


It’s been quite the year of changes for Crash’s Landing, as we had to combine both or our shelters under one roof, though keep the populations separate; one side of our building houses the Crash Cats and the other houses Big Sid’s, our rescue for FIV- and Feline Leukemia-positive kiddos.

Because our space limitations are greater now than they were when we were fortunate enough to have our Sid’s Kids running around a huge two-story building, we had to decrease the amount of residents we could have at any one time; needless to say our intake has drastically reduced, much to our dismay. However, we are always happy to help another local shelter in need and leave spots open for just such instances, so when our friend Amber at the Kent County Animal Shelter contacted us in mid-August with a transfer request, Dr. Jen was more than thrilled to oblige.


On August 7th, this FAB-U-LOUS FIV+ boy was picked up as a homeless wanderer in Kentwood, and after his stray hold was up and no one had claimed him, the employees were hard-pressed to find him a place to go that could accommodate him given his viral status. Although Heihei (pronounced ‘hay-hay’) doesn’t have a single ornery bone in his gorgeous body, the virus is transmitted by deep puncture wounds, so putting him with the general population wasn’t ideal or even an option.


He was already neutered when the animal shelter got him, but sadly he wasn’t kept indoors; intact males tend to fight, no matter how nice they are, so if he had only been safe and sound inside, his story could have been written up just a little bit differently. The good (no, GREAT) news is however that since our sanctuary caters to kiddos with either FIV or FELV (feline leukemia virus), we were the purr-fect spot for him to land—and boy did he ever hit the ground running!


From the second we laid eyes on his handsomeness, we KNEW he was going to be a fast favorite, as not only is he utterly stunning with his dark black tabby markings, but he is such a gentle, sweet soul that you can’t help but fall helplessly in love with him. It also appears that the volunteers and other residents alike echo this sentiment, as he can always be found snuggling up next to another Sid’s Kid, or hanging out next to one of the humans as they do their chores around the shelter (these cats can be quite the task masters). In fact, our cat care director had these glowing words about Heihei:


“We couldn’t have a more wonderful boy! He adjusted immediately when he got to the shelter and was demanding to be let out of the intake room less than 24 hours after he arrived. He is super cuddly, social, and playful and he also talks non- stop, which is absolutely adorable. He will make a great cat for any family, especially one with kids. I doubt we will have him long.”
Want to adopt Heihei? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here. Go here to learn about FIV. Go here to learn about FeLV.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Cuervo

Meet Cuervo!

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).

 

In honor of Cinco de Mayo, 2017, Dr. Jen opted to give all of the ‘newbies’ for the month names of Hispanic origin; we had already had a Cinco (and Dr. Jen is saving Mayo for a white kitty).

 

Cute and cuddly Cuervo (born in the spring of 2013, came to us through volunteer Sandi D’s TNR efforts on the south side of town. Suffering from a full thickness right-sided facial wound, he sported a lop-sided grin for several weeks until his skin healed. Since he was all male before his rescue, it is no wonder that fighting with another cat transmitted the virus to him.

 

He is the type of cat that THRIVES in our free roaming shelter situation and he is enthralled by everything and captivated by everyone! He literally follows the volunteers around and throws himself at their feet, flopping over and begging for belly rubs every chance he gets; however, it is getting brushed that induces an almost catatonic, rapturous state — more than anything, this tickles his fancy to no end! He is going to make paws-itively THE purr-fect companion for the luckiest of families who scoop him up and take him home!

Want to adopt Cuervo? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here. Go here to learn about FIV. Go here to learn about FeLV.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the Week: Tostada

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


In honor of Cinco de Mayo 2017, Dr. Jen opted to give all of the ‘newbies’ for the month names of Hispanic origin; we had already had a Cinco (and Dr. Jen is saving Mayo for a white kitty). So, here’s a little bit about Tostada, one of May’s magnifico kiddos that became a Crash Cat.


Shy Tostada was lurking about behind our shelter when he was live trapped (we were attempting to capture two calicos that had been hanging around for weeks). We think that someone dumped him off and drove away since he hadn’t ever been spotted in the neighborhood before; when he saw an open door and food awaiting, he got himself caught in the hopes of earning a better life for himself.


Dr. Jen guesstimates he was born in the spring of 2012 and was ear-tipped prior to arrival, which means he was a participant in a low-cost spay/neuter program (thankfully). His nails were frayed from being caged (and then deciding he didn’t care for it once the food was gone), his right ear was torn, and he sported a small puncture on his left foreleg.


For the first month at Crash’s, Tostada pretty much spent all of his time hiding inside of a cave-type bed, but he is slowly and surely coming out of his shell at the writing of his bio in July and learning what being brave is all about. He enjoys napping on one of our many toddler beds, but prefers to fly solo, so finding him a home where he can laze the day away in peace and solitude would be best for our handsome orange and white guy.

Want to adopt Tostada? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

 

Cat of the week: Brimley

Look at this guy… just LOOK at him!

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


Dr. Jen had purposely saved this name for when a cat arrived that came in as a diabetic (c’mon, everyone has seen those commercials, haven’t they?). So she was excited when she finally got the chance to use it when this fine, FIV fella came to the sanctuary through Carol’s Ferals on September 4th, 2012. Well, she wasn’t excited he had diabetes, but you have to admit that it is pretty clever naming.

In any case, this poor pussycat found himself in very dire straits when first taken in to CF, and since he had way more medically wrong with him than they felt they could handle (he hadn’t been diagnosed at that point), Dr. Jen offered to take him in and figure out what was going on.


Born in March of 2010, Brimley sure had seen some rough patches while out of the streets of Grand Rapids. This nub-tailed ragamuffin was a filthy, albeit friendly, fella who was starving for food, affection and blood glucose regulation. In fact, his sugar levels were so out of whack that it took a few weeks on a pretty high insulin dosage to knock his sugar levels down to a dull roar.


Brimley is the sweetest kitty

And then, a pleasant surprise: Brimley went into remission! Diabetics can be fickle, so he may very well require insulin in the future, so we are keeping tabs on his status and fattening him up, which he is more than thrilled about (he was less thrilled with his twice daily shots, but he tolerated them alright as he got treats in return).


Being FIV-positive (read about FIV here) will be less of a drawback than being diabetic; cats with dual issues like this are harder to adopt out, as it takes a special person to commit to a lifetime of meds and follow-ups. But, all of us here at Big Sids feel Brimley is more than worth it, and we know once you meet this cutie pie you will see why we feel he deserves every chance at a life in a home of his own!


More about Brimley:

  • FIV-positive
  • House trained
  • Spayed/Neutered
  • Current on vaccinations

Want to adopt Brimley? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

 

Cat of the week: Chrysanthemum

By Sharon Wylie
Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


Volunteer Patti F. and her family are very well versed in this whole stray cat thing, as living out in the country has brought them many a cat over the years; this summer however they found themselves coming across several ill or injured kitties that needed medical attention.

Such was the case with Chrysanthemum, a young mother (born in the spring of 2015) who ended up on their property sickly, swollen and very skittish. Seems that another Saranac stray had taken an extreme dislike to Chryssy, biting her on the right side of her face and causing a major abscess that not only affected her jaw but the inside of her mouth and underneath her tongue as well.

Given her frantic nature when in the presence of strangers at first, we suspect the ONLY way her rescuer was able to catch her and bring her in to safety was simply because she was so ill she didn’t have the energy to put up a fight. But after her spay and wound treatment, coupled with heavy-duty antibiotics and narcotics, Chryssy was rip-roaring mad at Dr. Jen and not afraid to show it (yes, that is the thanks Dr. Jen gets).


Chryssy roomed with another terribly shy guy while she recovered at the clinic in the hopes that his tender timidness would rub off on her, but unfortunately within a day of arrival at Crash’s she turned her fear of the unknown into aggression. It was so rough going at first that she became extremely violent when anyone so much as attempted to approach her.


Over the next few weeks though, as she grew more comfortable in her surroundings and realized that we are not the bad guys, her attitude changed and she was able to finally move past her disdain and hatred of humans. Even though she is far from fond of any of us two-legged creatures, she is smitten with other kittens and is ALWAYS found snuggled up close to one cat or another (or two or three!).


We believe that it is through our kindness towards her kitty companions that Chryssy is learning what it feels like to be loved unconditionally, and we know that patience and kindness will win her over. We are taking baby steps and asking her to toddle on after us towards a more peaceful coexistence; we are confident that her roommates will show her the way—and we are happy with whatever pace she sets for herself. Interested adopters must have a quiet home with no other pets or children.


We have no expectations of her other than to let her guard down and allow us to show her what compassion and tenderness is all about; if it takes weeks, months or even years, that is fine by us—we aren’t going anywhere and she can stay here as long as she pleases!

MORE ABOUT CHRYSANTHEMUM

  • House trained
  • Spayed/Neutered
  • Current on vaccinations
  • Prefers a home without dogs and Young Children
Want to adopt Chryssy? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Bryant

 

Stunning Bryant

By Sharon Wylie

Crash’s Landing

 

Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).

 

A Cutlerville resident came across this stunning — but stinky — intact male on Nov. 18, 2016, and contacted a friend for help; that friend kept the kitty indoors for three days but was unable to house him long-term.

 

When the strapping stud arrived at the clinic on the 21st, he was completely loaded with flea dirt and crawling with live fleas, had significant gingivitis and completely missing an entire toenail from his left rear foot. However, he weighed in at 12.5 pounds — he was well-fed while out roaming the streets — so he did have that going for him, along with being a well-muscled, fine specimen of a cat; we now had quite the hunk in our possession! Dr. Jen’s first order of business was to retest him for FELV/FIV as he had supposedly tested positive for one of the viruses at another clinic; testing at intake (and again a month later) revealed a negative viral status. Once neutered and cleaned up, bold and beguiling Bryant made his way on down to Crash’s.

 

Born in November of 2013, Bryant is a total sweetheart the majority of the time, but has a tendency to get a wee bit nippy when he feels he has had enough attention. He will tolerate the other cats but we think he would ideally prefer to fly solo. He is a very confident guy, so he is not afraid to stand up to some of our more temperamental boys, not backing down and showing them what he is made of.

 

Because of his hot-and-cold attitude, we believe that it would be best that he be placed into a home without small children who might be apt to overlook his cues as to when he needs alone time. That being said, undoubtedly he will make a fabulous addition to someone who wants a cat who will be totally devoted to the human in his life, as long as he is given some space on occasion. He is a stunning boy who is sure to be the confidante and companion someone out there is looking for!

MORE ABOUT BRYANT

  • House trained
  • Spayed/Neutered
  • Current on vaccinations
  • Prefers a home without young children

Want to adopt Bryant? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Flora

Fabulous Flora has special needs, but that shouldn’t stop you from adopting her

By Sharon Wylie

Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


When a Belmont resident stumbled across this bedraggled old girl at the Madison Square Sportsman Club, she did the ONE thing that saved the kitty’s life: she took her home and brought her inside.

 

Weighing in at only 4.7 pounds, this senior citizen whose age can only be estimated at older than 8 (a birthdate of June of 2007 has been given) was in such dire straits, it was painful to look at her. The rescuer took her in to a vet for a quick once-over and testing, then called us to ask if we could help; we welcomed this beyond skinny, scrawny kitty into our program on June 23, 2016.

 

Upon kitty’s arrival, Dr. Jen had her work cut out for her: Flora was emaciated with significant muscle wasting, her gums were pale due to a non-regenerative anemia, had broken canines and dental disease, was ravenously hungry but literally everything she ate ran out of the other end, had a puncture wound on chin that abscessed and caused a significant odor AND was bugged by fleas as well! Needless to say, frail little Flora and Dr. Jen spent a few days at the clinic righting all of the wrongs that we could; by the time she headed down to Crash’s her stools were solidifying, she was up to 5.7 pounds and she was totally loving her new life.

 

For the next four weeks Dr. Jen had Flora on a course of oral antibiotics that would target a blood parasite if that was the cause of her low red blood cell count, but although she continued to gain weight (she was up to 6.9 pounds a month after her arrival), her anemia didn’t improve, meaning it simply is one of chronic illness.

 

In time, as she grows stronger and healthier, this may change, but given all of the problems this abandoned girl was plagued with for so long, it may take quite awhile. We will continue to monitor her closely for symptoms of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) as that chronic condition certainly could be the root of the majority of her presenting issues.

 

It took several weeks of R and R at our facility before Flora had energy to do more than sleep, so now that she is getting three squares a day (ok, in her case it is unlimited snacks and meals) she is making her rounds about the place and is quite happy to see you when you arrive. She learned her name very quickly and will saunter on over to you if you ask her to (if she isn’t contentedly napping), relishing the gentle fur-strokes and face rubs given to her in return.

 

Overall, Flora is a fabulous, mellow, laid-back, even-tempered gal who would adore a home that would provide for her all of the ‘cushy’ things in life she was missing for so long. If you have a warm lap, designated snuggle spots and a bed or two she could claim as her own, then Flora feels she is the right cat for you! Her needs are simple and her gratitude is endless; she will be a loving, loyal companion who will repay your kindness with never-ending devotion.

MORE ABOUT FLORA

  • Anemic
  • House trained
  • Spayed/Neutered
  • Current on vaccinations

Want to adopt Flora? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Hero

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


In June of 2013, Dr. Jen received a very nice email request from an employee at a Michigan shelter in regards to transferring over a Feline Leukemia positive boy who was stuck in a cage—with limited adoption opportunities. Since their shelter did not have a program for cats with FELV (most do not) and he was not able to roam much due to lack of space, he was primarily confined to one spot. The shelter was able to house him temporarily with a positive kitten, so Hero (who was born in late 2013) had a buddy to snuggle and cuddle with.


Since we focus on cats older than six months of age, Dr. Jen gladly accepted this striking, stunning tabby fella into our program at Big Sid’s. So on July 7th we welcomed this long and lanky, MARVELOUS manx into our free-roaming, two level facility after a work-up was performed at the clinic—and Dr. Jen got to bond and fall hopelessly in love with him. I mean those ear tips and tufts alone are enough to knock your socks off, but when you couple that with those piercing green eyes… it’s all over!


Hero is probably one of THE HAPPIEST CATS we currently have at our sanctuary! He could not wait to be released from our intake suite (we had to speed up the process a wee bit to accommodate his eagerness) so he could meet the rest of the residents and hang out with all of the volunteers. Instant-presto nice guy Hero impressed everyone with how cordial and outgoing he was from the moment he padded paw into our place. Our cat care director went so far as to say that he was one of the nicest cats we have EVER had at Sid’s—and that is saying A LOT. She says he thrives on chatting with you and following you around; no matter what you are doing or where you are, jubilant, overjoyed Hero is there with a smile plastered on his face (he sports a very winning grin).


It is a crying shame that our handsome Hero contracted the virus because it does limit his chances realistically of being adopted. He is too social and has formed such a strong kinship with the other cats that he absolutely has to have another kitty to play with, and he needs a bustling household that can energize and entertain him. It can be a tall order to fill when asking someone to take a chance on a Feline Leukemia positive kitty, but Hero has SO MUCH TO OFFER—virus be damned! He is most definitely worth looking into what it requires to take on a positive kitty, so if you are interested in finding out more about Hero and FELV, please contact Dr. Jen directly.

MORE ABOUT HERO

  • Felv+
  • House trained
  • Spayed/Neutered
  • Current on vaccinations

Get the facts about Feline Leukemia here.


Learn about our adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Kate Spayed

By Sharon Wylie
Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).

 

It is infuriating when so-called ‘pet-owners’ move out and leave their cat (or dog behind), but when winter is in full force and they toss their pet outside to fend for themselves, well we find that selfish act unforgiveable. Luckily a rescuer was hot on the trail of a homeless tail attached to a very striking and saucy girl who wanted back indoors in the worst kinda way. She scooped her up, creating a cozy bed for her in the garage for the night (she has over a dozen kitties of her own so it wasn’t feasible to bring her into her actual home) until she could bring her to the clinic on Dec. 6, 2016.

 

At first the red patch tabby (born in the summer of 2013) was none too pleased being temporarily caged at the clinic, so Dr. Jen let her acclimate overnight, which helped adjust her cattitude immensely. Canned food proved to be the gateway to her soul, and by the next morning Dr. Jen was able to work her up to get her program-ready. With the exception of fleas, Kate Spayed, as Dr. Jen dubbed her, was a pretty healthy girl—thank goodness!

 

Once at Crash’s the diva that is Kate surfaced — she grumped, grumbled and groaned when any other inquisitive feline got too close to her personal space. One-on-one with the humans is another story — she is delightful, possessing the charm and manners of a sophisticated lady, but in the presence of those of her own kind, Kate tends to show her less than purrsonable side, getting overwhelmed quite easily and issuing warning bites so everyone knows to leave her alone. For that reason, we feel that our gorgeous gal should go into a home without any other cats or small children who may not understand her cues when she has simply had enough.

 

Don’t get me wrong, as she is a lovely cat who wants nothing more than to be loved—and to love on her person once again; she doesn’t understand why she was tossed out like trash, she doesn’t understand why her people chose not to love her anymore. What Kate DOES understand is that she is currently bunking with over 40 other cats who want to tickle her whiskers, snuggle up beside her and make friends, but she simply doesn’t have that desire in her. Plain and simple, she just wants a person to cherish her and make her feel comfortable and secure again—and we feel that is not too much to ask for at all; after all, Kate deserves to be a valued furry family member!

Want to adopt Kate Spayed? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Heyward

Just look at that handsome mug

By Sharon Wylie

Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


We happen to think that ALL of our Crash Cats are good looking, but this guy right here is one hot commodity, and so flipping handsome we can hardly contain ourselves when we gaze upon his gorgeousness! Hunky Heyward (born in late 2011) ended up homeless and helpless in mid-October, 2016 when a cat lover provided him with the safety and comfort of a really awesome outdoor coop she has set up for the strays she often comes across out in her northeast Grand Rapids neighborhood.


When Dr. Jen had the extreme pleasure of welcoming him into our program on November 14th, he was extremely shy and suffering from severe dental disease; in fact the neutered male had pockets of pus present in his mouth and was missing many teeth that had literally rotted and fallen out sometime before his rescue. He was pretty scruffy and matted, probably from not being willing to groom himself as meticulously due to profound oral pain, so we spruced and fluffed him up while he was under anesthesia for his surgery. He looked and smelled SO much better once he woke up and was able to enthusiastically dive head first into bowl after bowl of yummy soft food.


Once at the shelter, Heyward hunkered down in his two-story cat condo and refused ANY and ALL human contact for two whole weeks, though he delighted in the endless supply of meals and didn’t mind people speaking softly to him. Then, all of a sudden, at exactly the two-week mark, he waltzed on out of his condo and demanded affection, and he hasn’t stopped since that wonderful, glorious day. He prefers to stay tucked away out of the limelight but will seek out attention when all is quiet in the shelter.


Heyward is especially fond of belly rubs and lap snuggles; we suspect that once he feels comfy and cozy in his new, mellow home, he will offer his tummy up for major pets and warm the laps of those who have chosen to take a chance on him, take him home and love him up one side and down the other:) Heyward deserves to be doted on and adored, and he will most certainly reciprocate your kindness with unconditional love.

Want to adopt Heyward? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Clawed LeMew

Meet Clawed LeMew!

By Sharon Wylie

Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


At the tail end of January 2015, Wyoming resident April D. came across this very hot mess of a cat on a bitterly cold winter day; abscessed and oozing, this intact male needed help ASAP. So she contacted us and we got him out to the clinic the very next day, which turned out to be not a minute too soon, as there was way more going on than what met the eye. Not only was this 5-year-old tom cat (born in early 2012) suffering from multiple infected bite wounds on his very swollen and lame left rear leg, but both of his ears were terribly infected , one of his nails had been completely torn off resulting in a nasty infection AND he was anemic from a blood parasite carried by fleas.


Although he looked really rough on the outside, it was the lack of red blood cells that was the bigger threat; he ended up requiring two different types of antibiotics, narcotics and steroids to treat all that ailed him. However, in spite of it all, within three weeks after his arrival, our fabulously fine fella with the frayed ear tips recovered completely. In fact, to look at him now, you would never guess the laundry list of issues he had upon arrival into our program.


It took a bit for Clawed LeMew to fully acclimate to his surroundings, something that we totally understand given his tumultuous history and the fact he came in looking like a furry little punching bag. He is still a bit head shy (who can blame him?) but each and every day he is with us he becomes less leery of the other cats around him. However, Dr. Jen admits being told that he is one to speak his mind and spew kitty profanity if someone gets a wee bit too close for comfort.


Clawed adores human attention and is very willing to engage in sessions of belly rubs and heavy petting (sounds naughty right?) but he isn’t too fond of being picked up. He gets a little spooked if you move too fast around him, so we try to remember to go slow and shower him with his favorite tasty treats, Temptations. He may have been a bit of a bad boy while out on his own, but now that he is part of this new team, Clawed gets to stop being defensive and show his softer side.


It has been remarkable for us to literally watch his transformation occur right before our eyes — not only has he developed into a mature, well-adjusted fella, but he has shown us, and more importantly himself, that he is capable of being gentle and loving. He thoroughly enjoys soaking up the reassurances and tender touches of the volunteers that are spoiling him on a daily basis.


Since life on the streets proved to be aggressive and chaotic for Clawed, we will strive to find him a home that is calm and quiet, one where he can settle in, hunker down and reap the rewards of being a handsome, pampered house cat.

Want to adopt Clawed LeMew? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Elegant Ellie

Meet Elegant Ellie!

By Sharon Wylie

Crash’s Landing

 

Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).

 

Elegant Ellie first arrived at Crash’s via the Veteran’s Home back in the fall of 2005. Because she was so alluring and outgoing, she was quickly adopted by a wonderful gal, who took her home and doted on her for almost nine years. Dr. Jen was fortunate enough to have been her veterinarian for seven of those years, so she got to see her on a regular basis and offer advice when her mom moved, got married and acquired a dog as a house mate.

 

When the furry and human family moved to Allendale in 2012, Dr. Jen lost contact with her, until an email came to us in August of 2014, asking us to take her back into our program. Seems that for some reason that summer, Ellie took to urinating inappropriately, first on the carpet and then on the couch. Her mom mentioned that the basement did flood due to a leaky pipe, and that is where her litter box was located, and they had a person stay in their finished basement which was previously Ellie’s territory.

 

As we all know, sometimes things WE think aren’t significant enough to warrant a behavior change can indeed be terribly upsetting to a cat, who will then act out by urinating where she shouldn’t. As pet owners, it is up to us to dive deeper into the issue at hand, not blame the cat for being ‘bad’ and figure out what can be done to rectify the problem. But, all members of the household have to be on board with this game plan, and sadly, this wasn’t the case with Ellie.

 

It was extremely difficult for her mom to have to make that tearful trip to the vet’s office to relinquish custody of her little girl, one she had been through so much with over the years, but decisions were made and that was that.

 

Ellie, born in early 2005, was as darling and adorable as Dr. Jen recalled, talking up a storm and purring and head-butting her like the long-lost furry friend she was! Dr. Jen promptly collected a urine sample, which did prove to be completely normal. Knowing that stress is a HUGE factor in feline house soiling issues, she gave Ellie a pep talk, told her to mind her manners, and prepped her for her return to Crash’s. She was in need of dental work, as she hadn’t seen a vet since she left our practice, so I took her to surgery and removed a bad tooth. She woke up ready and raring to go, excited for the next chapter in her life, eager and willing to make new friends.

 

In fact, within a day of arriving back at Crash’s, where she spent no more than a few weeks so long ago, this ebullient girl wanted OUT of the intake suite in a major way! She is extremely affectionate to all who cross her path, seems to really enjoy the company of other cats and is far more outgoing and accepting of her surroundings than Dr. Jen anticipated of a senior citizen new on the scene.

 

If Ellie continues to behave and beguile everyone with her winning ways, Dr. Jen has no doubt that she will be able to place her in a home again. She is simply too sweet and stunning to not afford her another chance!

 

Our policy has always been one of acceptance in spite of imperfections, and we are thrilled to be able to offer her that. Plus, it is very easy to become enamored by her beauty and energy, so we are quite happy to be hosting her once again!

MORE ABOUT ELLIE

  • Declawed
  • Spayed/Neutered
  • Current on vaccinations

Want to adopt Ellie? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

 

Cat of the week: Yukio

Tantalizing Siamese/Tabby Yukio takes about two minutes to warm up to new people, then all he wants to do is live on your lap!

By Sharon Wylie

Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).

 

Although Yukio (born in spring of 2014) came in with fellow Siamese Fujiko (born in the spring of 2013) and Yoshimitsu (born in spring of 2014) as a presumed family, they really aren’t that interested in hanging out together, but more so in roaming and running rampant from one end of the building to the other with pure, unadulterated glee.

 

You couldn’t ask for a more stunning sample of Siamese/tabby cat if you tried — Yukio is  THAT drop-dead gorgeous! And not only is he incredibly easy on the eyes, but he has an absolutely amazing personality and has adjusted to indoor shelter life with enthusiasm and eagerness. This guy and his fellows were door-darters from the minute we set them up in the intake suite, awaiting their photo ops and allowing them to acclimate (which they didn’t really need at all)!

 

Siamese cats are popular and we don’t see them here at Crash’s Landing all that often. The trio arrived in December 2016 and already, Fujiko has been adopted, so Yukio just might get snapped up quickly. If you love Siamese cats — or mixtures thereof — don’t wait too long!

MORE ABOUT YUKIO

  • House trained
  • Spayed/Neutered
  • Current on vaccinations

Want to adopt Yukio? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Maury Pawvich

By Sharon Wylie

Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).

 

Here’s what Dr. Jen had to say about Maury Pawvich:

 

Sometimes you cross paths with a cat so flipping adorable and outgoing that you cannot fathom why on earth he was wandering around town, aimless and abandoned. Seriously, this guy right here? Totally AWESOME! You all know my affinity for the fat-heads, but it just isn’t my penchant for pinchable cheeks that drew me in, but rather magnificent Maury’s alluring aura and his gentlemanly nature. Born in late 2010, the marvelous specimen of all things feline somehow ended up homeless and in search of a place to call his own, when a Wyoming resident took it upon herself to take him in temporarily until we were able to.

 

Although upsetting, it was really no big surprise when this studmuffin tested a very strong FIV+, considering he was ‘all boy’ and had been roaming the mean streets for who knows how long. I don’t think Maury was the aggressor in any skirmishes he was involved in, but he did suffer a nasty injury to his left rear foot that tore one of his claws completely off, leaving him with a nasty, smelly infection that needed immediate treatment, lest he lose that toe. After antibiotics, neutering, flea treatment, vaccines and deworming, my handsome tuxedo (former) tomcat was ready, willing and able to head on down to our sanctuary and become an official Big Sid’s Kid.

 

Again, not astonishing that he made fast friends with anyone he came into contact with, charming the other cats and the volunteers alike with his come hither gaze, affability and eagerness to be best buds — forever! Of all of the newbies we had taken in in December of 2014, Maury adapted the easiest, settling in like a champ and quickly learning and engaging in the daily routines and rituals with great enthusiasm.

 

He is SUCH a gracious, gorgeous guy that you can’t help but fall for him, hook, line and sinker, within mere minutes of making his acquaintance. Maury is absolutely delightful and I speak for all of us when I say how thrilled we are to have him as one of our own, that is until we to find him the kind of purr-fect home he deserves!

MORE ABOUT MAURY PAWVICH

  • FIV+
  • House trained
  • Spayed/Neutered
  • Current on vaccinations

Want to adopt Maury Pawvich? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Get info about Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Heyward

By Sharon Wylie

Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


Dr. Jen happens to think that ALL Crash Cats are good looking, but this guy right here is one hot commodity—and so flipping handsome she could hardly contain herself when she gazed upon his gorgeousness!


Hunky Heyward (born in late 2011) ended up homeless and helpless in mid-October 2016, when a cat-lovin’ rescuer provided him with the safety and comfort of a really awesome outdoor coop she has set up for the strays she often comes across out in her northeast Grand Rapids neighborhood. When Dr. Jen had the extreme pleasure of welcoming him into the program on November 14, he was extremely shy and suffering from severe dental disease; in fact, the neutered male had pockets of pus present in his mouth and was missing many teeth that had literally rotted and fallen out sometime before his rescue.


Heyward was pretty scruffy and matted, probably from not being willing to groom himself scrupulously due to profound oral pain, so Dr. Jen spruced and fluffed him up while he was under anesthesia for his surgery. He looked and smelled SO much better once he woke up and was able to enthusiastically dive headfirst into bowl after bowl of yummy, soft food!


Once at the shelter, Heyward hunkered down in his two-story cat condo and refused any and all human contact for two whole weeks, though he delighted in the endless supply of meals and didn’t mind people speaking softly to him. Then, all of a sudden, at exactly the two-week mark, he waltzed on out of his cage and demanded affection—and he hasn’t stopped since!


He prefers to stay tucked away out of the limelight but will seek out attention when all is quiet in the shelter. He is especially fond of belly rubs and lap snuggles; it could be that once he feels comfy and cozy in his new, mellow home, he will offer his tummy up for major pets and warm the laps of those who have chosen to take a chance on him, take him home and love him up one side and down the other.


Heyward deserves to be doted on and adored, and he will most certainly reciprocate your kindness with unconditional love.


Want to adopt Heyward? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Rowdy

Rowdy is adoptable!

By Sharon Wylie

Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


Rowdy’s rescuer has a way with cats — even the most timid of tom cats can’t resist her gentleness and this guy was no exception, although it did take quite a bit of sweet talking to reel him in, after which the rescuer and her cousin carted him off to Focus on Ferals for evaluation and neutering in mid-March 2016.


Although he was none too pleased, in time he did manage to forgive her and allowed her to once again pet him. She bestowed upon him the name of ‘Rowdy’ (born in the fall of 2011), not because he was a hellion at heart but simply because he gave her such a hard time when it came to corralling him into a travel carrier. She chose the name Rowdy after the character Rowdy Yates from the classic Rawhide television show back in the day of Clint Eastwood’s prime.


Rugged and ragged are two words that aptly described this handsome hunk when he arrived at the clinic on March 28 as he was sporting a previously broken tail tip, missing a canine tooth, was filthy and grimy with a stud tail present (from being intact for so long), in dire need of dental cleaning and sporting a nasty bite wound on his chest.


As you can imagine, this guy probably had some harrowing tales to tell, but instead he chose to keep quiet, hunker down in the safety and confines of the cushy cage Dr. Jen set up for him, and rest and recover. Wary and battle-weary, the poor guy needed spiffing up before going down to the sanctuary to be spoiled; he tested positive for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).


Once at Big Sid’s, Rowdy settled in, though at times it appeared as though he was afraid of his own shadow. With not a mean bone in his handsome, hunky bod, it does take him time to warm up, relax under a gentle touch and get to know you. The volunteers are patiently guiding him through daily life at the free-roaming facility, where he is making furry friends and reveling in the fact that he doesn’t have anything to be frightened of; his fighting days are over and his life of luxury has begun.


The dozens of doting caretakers are professionals when it comes to reassuring the shy guys, so in time, Dr. Jen has no doubt that Rowdy will be rolling on the floor, showing off his belly and relishing the attention showered on him.

MORE ABOUT ROWDY

  • FIV-positive
  • House trained
  • Spayed/Neutered
  • Current on vaccinations

Want to adopt Rowdy? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Get info about Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the week: Cinco de Meow

cinco3
Look who’s lounging — it’s Cinco de Meow!

 

By Sharon Wylie

Crash’s Landing

 

Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


The frigid and brutal winter of 2013-2014 was certainly beyond problematic for many a stray in our area. When this beautiful black and white boy showed up in February half-frozen, a kind lady in the community knew it was time to take matters into her own hands and bring him indoors where it was safe and warm. Although a nice neighbor had been feeding him, with temps plummeting and no end to the ice and snow in sight, she knew this guy was in trouble. Not only was he an intact male, he had been beaten up and bullied and his immune system was so compromised he was terribly ill with a nasty respiratory infection.

Want to adopt Cinco? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Cat of the Week: Gorgeous Galen

galen_021446
Meet gorgeous Galen!

Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).

 

By Sharon Wylie

 

This fabulous Feline Leukemia-Positive boy had been none too healthy when he first arrived at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic on Aug. 29, 2016, as a transfer from Montcalm County. Born in the summer of 2012, it’s a mystery as to how he ended up homeless and in need of help as he is absolutely one of the most laid-back, lovable lugs to saunter on into the sanctuary.

 

Although he was intact, filthy, flea-ridden, loaded with internal parasites and sporting a nasty bilateral ear infection that caused his eardrums to rupture, he was extremely affectionate, trusting and wanting nothing more than to snuggle.

 

It didn’t take too much to get him spiffed up and sent on down to Big Sid’s, but after about 10 days there, he developed a rip-roaring temperature of 106.8 degrees and was rushed back out to the clinic. Lab work revealed a profound inflammatory condition but unfortunately, antibiotics were not enough to control the fever; Dr. Jen had to go big and hit him hard with steroids and that worked.

 

A few days later, she was able to discharge this happy camper and get him back where he belonged, where he coerced all of the volunteers into giving him belly rubs and head pats overtime they turned around. He made his gentle, sweet presence known.

 

galen_021447
Get ready to fall in love…

Galen made himself right at home, meshing with the resident population as if he had always lived amongst them. He is such an easy-going, easy-on-the-eyes guy that you are immediately drawn to him, and cats and humans alike find themselves enjoying his company immensely.

 

Galen’s middle ear infection is resolving nicely and he is doing exceptionally well at Big Sid’s. Stress can exacerbate underlying medical conditions so the fact that he acclimated with ease really helped speed up his recovery process. He is handsome, happy and now so much healthier than when he first came on board.

 

Galen is adoptable! Go here to read about the adoption process and then fill out an application form here. Get info about Feline Leukemia here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

 

See Galen’s Petfinder bio here.

MORE ABOUT GALEN

  • FELV+
  • House trained
  • Spayed/Neutered
  • Current on vaccinations

Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.