Coffee, Ricotta and Romano

Coffee found her home today after a long stay at Valley Humane.

And, Ricotta and Romano found their forever homes after a long six month stay.

Check back soon for their stories! :]

Ant, Doc, and Smokey

Ant and Doc were adopted together today!

Ant and Doc came to us with about 12 other cats from a home that just had too many animals. They were very young. We had named them after "The Insects", "The Winnie the Poohs" and "The Seven Dwarves". Ant was from the "Insects", while Doc was from the "Dwarves". We watched as most of these cats were adopted early May and June, and we had a few linger behind, such as Pooh and Happy. These two were adopted by one of our volunteers, Sharon. See posts further down for information on this. But, nobody ever seemed anxious to take Ant and Doc home, which was sad, because they were two of the sweetest from those two dozen cats. We even think they were part Siamese because of their long skinny faces and lanky tails. Well, long story short, they are in a great home now, and we could not be more happy for them! Congratulations to these two great cats.

And, Smokey found his forever home. Smokey was not with us long, as he was a Siamese. But, boy, did he have a lot of character...quite the mischievous one he was. Many people saw his beauty but wasn't ready for his active personality. We are so glad he found a good home, and many will miss him.

Christmas Day at Valley Humane Society

Christmas Day is truly magical at Valley Humane Society- that may sound silly, but I will explain why I say this. First, we are closed on Christmas and their is a sense of serenity between the cats and their feline counterparts when things are quiet around the shelter. They all play together peacefully and nobody ever seems to be in a bad mood. I think that when we are closed, they relax in preparation to "show themselves off" to the public when we are open.

Asides from that, Christmas Day is when all of the "Parcels for Pets" presents are opened and distributed to our homeless animals. In case you are wondering what parcels for pets is.....Parcels for Pets is modeled after Toys for Tots. Community members, volunteers, and staff could come pick up an ornament off our tree that had a homeless animals Christmas wish on it. They could then go out purchase the gift the animal wanted, wrap it up, and bring it back. We had the tree out for over a month, and collected a plethora of gifts! Today, I opened all of them and distributed them to cats. What a blast! I made a video with more information that I am hoping to post on our new VHS Youtube channel later. Keep your eye out!

In another sense, it has been pouring rain all day! I'm hoping our old modular doesn't float away into the arroyo anytime soon, ha ha!

Happy holidays to everybody out there!

Six adoptions! Yes, really!

The day before Christmas Eve, always a busy day filled with cooking, cleaning, and present wrapping, right? Wrong! Today six families picked out a forever friend here at the Valley Humane Society. Licorice, Catalina, Leo, Rockie, Cupid, and Jack were all officially adopted and here are their stories.

Leo was the first one to find a home today. Leo was one of the 13 kittens dropped on our back door step on Friday, August 13. We typically cannot take this many kittens in at once, let alone any animal dropped off on our back step, but there was something special about these 13 kittens. We had to take them in. We split them into 3 different litters according to their weight- one litter being "The Signs". Leo was one of them, of course. We quickly got them spayed and neutered and made them available for adoption. Slowly, they all found their forever homes. Soon enough, we got down to two- Leo and Virgo. A family came in yesterday looking for a new addition. Unsure of what they wanted, a staff member handed them Leo. It was truly love at first sight. They left for the night to pick up the supplies they needed, and came back at 10:55AM this morning to pick up their new feline friend. It was a great match, and we are all so happy for Leo. Congratulations! Here is a picture of Leo back from August.

Immediately after, Rockie was officially adopted by his foster family. This family had adopted Blue Jay (his sister) two weeks before, and could tell she was lonely. They came in one day just to visit, and could not leave little Rockie behind. They swooped him up and fostered him for a couple weeks. While Rockie was at the shelter he had sprained his ankle after jumping over a cage- that is why the family fostered him for a couple weeks- to make sure it healed properly, and it most certainly did! They were thrilled to take him home, and love him very much.

As we finished the paperwork for Rockie's adoption, a man came in looking for our most recent "Pet of the Week" Licorice. Gleefully, we brought both him and Licorice into our work room, where they both fell in love with each other. It did not take long for this man to decide this was the cat for him. He had another cat at home which he was slightly concerned about, but with patience, anything is possible and Licorice never seemed to mind one other cat. Licorice came to us from Fairmont Animal Shelter back in May before they closed. He was saved by one of their staff members who had noticed he had been there too long and not having any luck finding a home. We went and picked him up and he stayed here for 7 months. Licorice never did adjust to shelter life, having thirty plus roommates was very stressful for him, and all he wanted was a sunny window to lay in. Everybody here is so happy to see him adopted and finally in his forever home. He even served a short time as Kitty City Mayor where he tried to lead his fellow feline companions- he wasn't the best mayor we have had- but I definitely think it helped him get adopted. :) Here is a picture of Licorice days before finding his forever home.

After a short lunch break we enjoyed, our last three homeless animals of the day found homes. Catalina was the first to go of the three. A nice woman who had been emailing me about her for a few days came to meet her. Catalina curled up in the woman's lap and began to snuggle. Both the lady and our beautiful Catalina seemed to be in heaven. It was no longer than 20 minutes after meeting, that the papers were being signed and Catalina was on her way home.

Cupid was our last cat adoption of the day. A nice family who had been previously interested in Catalina came in for another visit. After discovering that she had been adopted, they spent a long time in Kitty City searching for a better fit. The woman was looking for an older cat that would spend the days relaxing in her lap and keeping her company. Cupid seemed to be a great fit for this situation- and the family noticed this. Poor Cupid had a rough life before being adopted. He was left behind when his family moved away, so the neighbor next door took care of him while waiting for a kennel to open up here at VHS. Cupid was fully declawed and over ten years old, so he needed a home fast, as he could not defend himself outside. The neighbor truly wanted to keep him, but his son was highly allergic to cats, and it would have threatened his family's health and safety. He fed Cupid and watched after him for almost three months until a kennel opened up. Once a kennel opened here, it did not take long for Cupid to find a home. He was a very handsome, vocal kitty who adored people.

Lastly, the dog we had all grown to love and adore was finally adopted. Jack was rescued back in October from a shelter in Fremont. We knew he would be a very active dog and would need help with some training with kitties and to settle down. He was about a year and a half old and we believe he was part Chihuahua and part Italian Greyhound (what a mix, right?!). The greyhound is what made him so active. His favorite things to do were run, go on hikes, and curl up in laps. After many failed adoption tries, we did not think anybody would ever have the patience this puppy like dog needed. We could tell he was getting sad, so we would let him sit with our office volunteers and answer phones and greet people- he loved it. Finally, a great lady came in last night, and found the dog she was looking for. I talked to her about his active needs and slight training he would need, and she did not mind! It was absolutely delightful. She went home to talk to her family and they all gave her the "thumbs up!". Jack was officially adopted just before 5 and you could tell he knew that he finally found his home.

Happy Holidays to all of these amazing pets and their new families.

We wish you the best, and a happy new year!

New cats!

We rescued 8 new cats today from local rescue organizations. Here are some pictures and background information on these cats.

Carla- 4 Month Old Grey and White DSH

Carla was rescued from Tri City Animal Shelter in Fremont. She is a talkative girl who loves any sort of human interaction.

Casey- 3 Year Old Black And White Tuxedo DLH

Casey was rescued from Tri City Animal Shelter. He is shy still, but definitely purrrrrs and enjoys a good belly rub.

Cameron- 7 Month Old Orange Tabby DSH

Cameron was rescued from Tri City Animal Shelter. He's a bit of a "flirt" and loves giving head butts and kisses.

Carlos- 3 Month Old Brown Tabby DSH

Carlos was rescued from Tri City Animal Shelter. Though he is a small kitten his big voice makes up for it. He's a snuggler and cuddler.

Celina- 8 Month Old Calico with Tortie Markings

Celina was rescued from Tri City Animal Shelter. She is another chatty cat who loves attention and laying upside down showing off her white tummy.

Chatty Cathy- 4 Month Old Hemingway Polydactyl

Cathy was rescued from Tri-City Animal Shelter. She has 6 toes on both her front feet and 5 toes on both her back. Chatty Cathy is a ball fur of energy and loves to be held.

Jayden and Chase- 6 Month Old Brown Tabby DSH's

Both of these sweet kittens were transfered from a local rescue organization. They are still not so sure of a shelter situation but are learning to warm up to people slowly.

Gucci, Pooh and Happy

Today was a great day as well!

Gucci was adopted first today. She went home with the same family who adopted Bert & Ernie three months ago. They were looking for an addition that would fit in perfectly. Gucci was that perfect fit! She could handle playing with the other cat and loved the kids. Nothing phased her. Gucci was one of the "Designer" kittens. We rescued her with her siblings and mom from Contra Costa Animal Shelter back in July. They were just days old. She had a rough life to start out, and it's only gone uphill since then. Why she had a rough life? Her mom was not always the best mom, she occasionally tried to down her babies in their water bowl. Good thing the foster home they were in did a great job of stepping in as mom when needed and helped monitor them to make sure they were safe!

Now, we only have one kitten left of the "Designers", and that is Prada. She looks exactly like Gucci and has a cute paint tipped tail.

Then, Pooh and Happy were officially adopted by our fabulous volunteer Sharon C. Pooh had a rough life to start as well. In his first few months, he consistently was giving false positive reads on his FIV tests. It was a mystery that we could not figure out. We monitored him and tried to make sure this was not true. Thank goodness it was not. Eventually we got negative reads, and it stayed that way. Then, he started acting very strange, and we thought he had contracted a fatal illness, so Sharon took him in to spend his possible last days with her in a home. Fortunately, he overcame whatever he was sick with, and now is a happy, healthy, energetic kitten. Sharon wanted him to have a friend, because kittens love company, and she adopted littermate Happy as well. Now they are a happy family, and it is great news!

Congratulations to Happy, Pooh, and Gucci!

Scooby and Freddie

Scooby and Freddie just found a home!

Scooby and Freddie were two kittens of the "Scooby Doo" litter. Their other two family members are mom, Velma and brother, Shaggy. Shaggy was adopted two weeks ago and mom is still at the shelter.

We rescued these cats when they were babies at ECAS. They went into foster with a great volunteer for about a month while they grew larger. After their spay and neuter surgeries, they were put into Kitty City!

Congratulations to these great kittens!

Saturday, December 18 was a success!

This morning, we started out with a new volunteer orientation, where around 25 people came to learn about the VHS programs and about our history. It was great to see so many people come, especially just a few days before Christmas. I am so thankful for all of these new volunteers we will have!

Shortly after, we had visitors lining up outside before 11 to see three small Siamese kittens we rescued from East County Animal Shelter. Siamese cats are always a big hit here at VHS, understandably. All at once, crowds of people came to see them, as well as other cats and kittens we had. It was great!

By 11:30, Glam and Glitter were getting adopted and....Sphynx and Thumbelina were getting adopted together! The folks that adopted Glam and Glitter were absolutely ecstatic to be taking such great kittens home. Both cats got along together very well and will be living with a 13 year old cat. As for Sphynx and Thumbelina, they are going to a great home! I already heard from their new family that their new names are Buster and Lily. Sphynx came to us back in May as a 5 day old kitten with his siblings and mom. We sent them into foster for a while so that they could grow and nurse off of mom. Once they were all big enough, they were spayed and neutered and brought into the shelter to be adopted. Since Day 1, we knew Sphynx's mom was feral, so we released her out back of VHS where she is now happy. We all see her daily and love her; her name is Egypt, and she is a DLH Tuxedo cat.

Things did not slow down any after these four were adopted. Shortly after, adoption paperwork was in the works for Glitz, one of the three Siamese from ECAS. The lady who adopted her was thrilled to have met her and could not wait to finish the paperwork to take her home. Glitz and her new owner were a perfect match, and I am so happy for both of them.

After a short break in chaos, a family came in looking to adopt a pair of kittens. We helped them by naming off all of the pairs we have currently...which is a lot (Scooby & Freddie; Prada & Gucci; Leo & Virgo; Decaf & Latte; Boq & Elphaba; Ant & Doc; Bruschetta & Tiramisu; Laverne & Shirley). They spent a couple hours with us choosing the best fit, and after much thought, they knew Boq and Elphaba were chosen! These were our sixth and seventh adoptions of the day!

And lastly, we finished the busy day with Tiramisu's adoption. A nice mom and daughter came in looking to adopt, but not sure what they were interested in. They were also the family who came to us and adopted Sweetie this time last year! Tiramisu's purrs and playfulness stuck out right away. This adoption again was a perfect match, and I am so happy for them.

Throughout all of the adoptions today, we also held a small "Volunteer Appreciation Get-Together" for our volunteers. We brought in some holiday goodies, and had treat bags as a thank you to our volunteers. Thank you to all of the volunteers who made it out today. And, of course, thank you to ALL of our volunteers who work so hard every day for us.

Below are some photos of our adopted animals from today:

Tiramisu

Thumbelina- now Lily

Sphynx- now Buster

Elphaba

Boq

Glam

Glitter

Glitz

Patch Article: The Divine Nine

Below is the link for the Pet Corner article of the week. This week it is about Valley Humane Society's 9 longest residents.

Happy reading!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/meet-the-many-felines-ruling-kitty-city

Muffin

Muffin went home tonight!

Two roommates came in last Thursday looking for an older cat who had been here a while longer than most. This is always great news when people are interested in an older cat. Muffin instantly caught their eye as she is a beautiful brown tabby. After thinking about it for a few minutes, they knew it was a perfect match. Over the weekend, they set their home up for a new cat and bought what they needed. After they got off work on Tuesday afternoon, the man came in and filled out the necessary paperwork and took her home!

Muffin was rescued from Contra Costa Animal Shelter in late April, along with several of her kittens (Bran, Oat, Flax, Cranberry, and Blueberry). We put her into foster right away as her babies were very young. After over a month in foster, they were all fixed and put up for adoption. The first weekend they were here was our huge "Adoptathon" weekend back in June. We had put mom and babies in a dog-sized kennel on the ground in Kitty City. These babies were of the first to be swooped up. Of course, kittens never take long.

All of the volunteers waited patiently for mom to find a home after that weekend. And, now that she has been adopted, everyone is thrilled!

Congratulations Muffin!

Gift Certificates!

Do you know somebody close to you who is looking to adopt a pet? And, are you looking for a gift to buy them for the holidays?

If so, consider purchasing a Valley Humane Society gift certificate! They are on sale now!

Shaggy, Monet, and Count Dracula

Shaggy was the first homeless shelter pet to find a home today. A lady who had visited previously brought her daughter in to find a family pet. Her daughter was immediately drawn to the "Scooby Doos"and after visiting for a short time, she knew Shaggy was the perfect fit. They also expressed a lot of interest in Scooby, so maybe they will be back! It's always great to see siblings go home together.

Next, Monet found her forever home. The great family who adopted "Angel" the dog a few weeks ago, met Monet their first visit here. Since then, Monet was lingering in their minds; when they saw Monet in the Independent they knew it was a sign sent to them. The family understood Monet's "crazy" self and could not wait to bring her home. Monet will be living with many other animals and will hopefully be much happier! As Monet was Mayor, we are looking to elect a new Mayor, as well as Co-Mayor! So far, it's looking like Licorice and Oceania have the most votes. What do you think? Leave any suggestions in the comments. And, vote in the poll! On the right hand side of the page. The poll will close on 12/15.

Lastly, Count Dracula found a home! A family who had traveled all over today looking for a dog thought they were out of luck. Our afternoon office volunteer handed them Dracula, and they fell in love. After family deliberation and a long walk with the lucky pup, they made their decision to complete the adoption.

I am thrilled for these three animals...especially Monet and Count Dracula, as they had been with us too long- in cat and dog terms, respectively.

Patch Article: Taking Care of Sick Cats...Information on Feline URI

Below is the link for the Pet Corner article of the week. This week it is about feline upper respiratory infections.

Happy reading!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/taking-care-of-sick-cats

Chanel

Chanel was adopted today! Chanel was a mom who we took in from Contra Costa Animal Shelter near the end of July. At that time, she had tons of itty-bitty kittens, just days old. They needed to be rescued from a county shelter situation immediately.

Luckily, we were able to take them in as we had an open foster home. Mom was so elegant, and her babies were a variety of colors, including torties, grey tabbies, buff tabbies, and brown tabbies. Seeing as they were so special and unique, we named them "The Designers". Mom was Chanel, while her babies included: Vera, Versace, Gucci, Prada, Armani and Gabbana.

After their spay and neuter surgeries, they all moved into Kitty City. These cats all were so much fun to play with and watch. Each one had their own personality that really shined, including Mom. I enjoyed watching them grow and slowly, some of them were adopted.

To this day, we still have Gucci and Prada, two brown tabbies. They are the best of friends, and I would love to see them go together...the funny thing is, they look so alike, they could be twins! The only difference is that one of them has a tan splotch on her tail that looks like she dipped it in a paint can!

Seeing our "momma" cats get adopted is one of my favorites. Seeing all that they have been through, and how hard they worked is very special.

Congratulations Chanel, I hope you are happy in your new home!

Pet of the Week: Monet

Monet is as pretty as a picture and is looking for her forever home. She arrived here last February as a shy kitty and has grown into an outgoing cat. She’s not a big fan of the shelter atmosphere and really needs a space to call her own. If you adopted Monet, you would be very lucky to own such a spirited and extraordinary kitty. Monet also holds the coveted honor of ‘Mayor of Kitty City’. To learn more about our adoptable animals, call 925-426-8656 or visit the website www.valleyhumane.org. Valley Humane Society is located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton and is open Tues- Sat from 11AM to 5PM.”

Iris, Gabbana, Vera, Blue Jay and Ranger

We had three kittens and two puppies find homes today!

Iris, Gabbana, and Vera were the kittens. Blue Jay and Ranger were the puppies!

We still have a plethora of kittens, and the last puppy, Rockie, available for adoption!

Patch Article: Introducing a Baby into the Family

Below is the link for the Pet Corner article of the week. This week it is about introducing a baby into a home with a pet.

Happy reading!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/introducing-a-baby-into-the-family-with-a-pet

Tootsie and Huey

Tootsie found her home early this morning! A nice lady who lives on her own saw Tootsie in the paper and just fell in love. Tootsie even sat in the lady's lap. What a perfect match.

Huey was also adopted! Huey had been with us for over a year, so t

his was a huge adoption. The family he went home with had been coming to visit him for about a month before they made the big decision.

Congratulations to both of these amazing cats.

**UPDATE 12/11/2010

I received a phone call from the woman who adopted Tootsie on Friday. She exclaimed to me how great Tootsie was doing. I was ecstatic. Tootsie was a cat who I had seriously contemplating rescuing if she had stayed with us much longer. Tootsie had a rough life. Back when she was around 2, she was brought to VHS, and immediately adopted.

Her name those eight long years ago was Socks. After being in a home about seven years, it stopped working out between her owners and her. They just were not getting along anymore. So, they brought her back to us. Tootsie was such a shy cat and did not trust anybody. To the day she was adopted, she was still untrusting, not letting anybody hold her. As a senior cat, shelter situations are never easy either. The older the cat, the harder it is to adjust, no matter how hard we try to make everything perfect.

Regardless, after a long 11 month stay with us, she finally found her forever home. The nice woman saw her picture in the Independent newspaper and knew she had to be an angel to this sweet cat. Congratulations Tootsie. I miss you everyday.

As for Huey, his new family could not be any happier with him. They let us know how happy he seems to be, and how he is inquisitive and curious in his new home. They absolutely adore him, and are so happy at how great of a cat he turned out to be. Huey came to us in November of 2009. He was a young kitten at the time, that our vet tech had been feeding in her neighborhood. After she realized how shy and scared he was, she took him in to VHS's adoption program. Long story short, he never did adjust to a shelter life. He preferred to spend the day laying in his litter box, napping. All of our staff and volunteers hoped and wished for him everyday that he would find a home. Thank goodness he finally found one, and with the best family anybody could have ever wished for him!

Pet of the Week: Velma, Scooby, Shaggy, and Freddie

"Scooby Dooby Doo, where are you? That’s an easy question! Scooby Doo, along with his feline family, Freddie, Velma, and Shaggy are here at Valley Humane Society. Velma is a stunning young Calico that enjoys chatting and lounging in the sun. Shaggy and Freddie are orange and white kittens, while Scooby is grey and white. Along with these feline friends, we have an abundance of other cats and dogs available for adoptions. To learn more about our adoptable animals, call 925-426-8656 or visit the website www.valleyhumane.org for more information. Valley Humane Society is located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton and is open Tues- Sat from 11AM to 5PM.”

Patch Article: Finding a Good Boarding Kennel

Below is the link for the Pet Corner article of the week. This week it is about finding a good boarding kennel for the holiday traveling season.

Happy reading!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/finding-a-good-boarding-kennel-for-the-holidays

Lilly and Phillie

Last Saturday was a success for puppy Phillie. Phillie found a home with a great couple who had recently lost their Shiitzu. Phillie filled that hole in their hearts immediately!

And this past Tuesday, Lilly, the french bulldog, found her forever home!

I am so happy for Lilly. Lilly came into our adoption program 4 years ago as a young dog. She was adopted out to a loving mom who was ecstatic to take in a rescue dog with so much heart. Unfortunately for both the mom and Lilly, her owner was diagnosed with a medical condition that made her unable to care for Lilly anymore. We took Lilly back in, promising to her we would find her the best home possible. And, we did. Her new family is amazing, and absolutely adores her. Congratulations Lilly.

Pet of the Week: Tootsie

“November is Adopt-A-Senior-Pet Month. Do you have a place in your home and heart for one of our homeless, senior pets? Nobody wants to spend the holidays alone, especially the senior citizens of Kitty City. Pictured, Tootsie was surrendered to us in January of 2010 and is still searching for her forever home. Tootsie is around ten years old and is very lonely here in her kennel. We also have Cupid, a ten year old declawed Siamese. To learn more about how heart-warming it is to adopt an older animal, call 925-426-8656 or visit the websitewww.valleyhumane.org for more information on our adoptable pets. Valley Humane Society is located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton and is open Tues- Sat from 11AM to 5PM.”

Patch Article: Handling Grief

Below is the link for the Pet Corner article of the week. This week it is about helping a pet handle grief.

Happy reading!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/pet-corner-dealing-with-grief

Puppies!

This Saturday from 11AM to 1PM we will have four terrier mix puppies here at the shelter. The puppies are "The Baseball Litter".

We also have Lilly- a 5 year old french bulldog, Jac

k- a 1 year old chihuahua/whippet mix, and Count Dracula- a 2 year old Dachsund mix.

To adopt a dog from Valley Humane Society, it is $200. This includes vaccinations (up to date), the micro chip, the spay or neuter, flea control, and parasite control.

Since we are so small, we do take in applications for our dogs and puppies before choosing a home. Our Dog Adoption Committee reviews all applicants very carefully before choosing. The Committee takes into account what will best for not only the family, but also the pet.

We will be taking applications from 11AM to 1PM on Saturday, November 20. Then, that afternoon we will be informing applicants of our decision.

Please contact us with any questions.

Pet of the Week: Ranger, Rockie, Blue Jay, and Phillie

“Are you a baseball fan that is sad the season has ended? If so, we have four adoptable puppies named after famous Baseball teams, so that the sport can live on in your home! Blue Jay, Ranger, Phillie, and Rockie are four terrier mixes about ten weeks of age. Each puppy has their own unique personality and would love to meet you! We also have 2 adult dogs-Lilly and Count Dracula- up for adoption! To learn more about these seven special dogs, call 925-426-8656 or visit the website www.valleyhumane.org for more information on our adoptable pets. Valley Humane Society is located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton and is o pen Tues- Sat from 11AM to 5PM.

Patch Article:Keeping Warm

Below is the link for the Pet Corner article of the week. This week it is about keeping your pet warm in the winter weather.

Happy reading!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/pet-corner-keeping-warm

Movin' and Shakin'

Hi everybody,

The building was moving and shaking again today! All day long, it seemed like we were having mini earthquakes! The construction crew is working very hard next door to help our building along.

It is such an exciting time! We are gearing up for all of the change, and cannot wait.

This morning, Phillip was adopted, too! This is great news. Phillip was adorable, and every volunteer loved him. We still have Jack, Lilly, and Count Dracula that are looking for homes.

And, of course, around 40 cats that need homes....especially for the Holidays.

Nobody wants to be alone during this time of year. Come adopt a pet!

Pet of the Week: Oceania

“Oceania is an affectionate cat who would love to join your family for the holiday season. She loves greeting new people and has an adorable cow lick on the back of her neck that sets her apart from the crowd. Oceania does not even realize how adorable she is the way she cocks her head and licks your hand as you pet her. You would be very lucky to have such a great cat in your home. If you are interested in head butts and purrs, come on down to Valley Humane Society located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton. Open Tues- Sat from 11AM to 5PM. Call 925-426-8656 or visit the website www.valleyhumane.org for more information on our adoptable pets.”

Aries

It has been a very quiet week here at VHS. I think everybody is starting to gear up for the holiday season already!

We still have Jack and Phillip, who are waiting to find their forever home. And, we took in a French Bulldog, Lilly, who is available as well.

And, Aries was adopted this morning! Aries was a sweet tuxedo kitten who was dumped on our back step back on August 13. She was dumped with 12 others, and almost all of them have found homes thus far. But, we still have Leo, Virgo, Scorpio, and Buddah.

The building is coming along faster than we had imagined! There were even workers out there at 9 this morning pouring cement along the outside of the building! How cool!

Patch Article: Cat Scratch Fever

Below is the link for the Pet Corner article of the week. This week it is about cats having the need to scratch everything in sight, and how to help!

Happy reading!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/cat-scratch-fever

Pet of the Week: Phillip and Jack

“Meet Phillip and Jack, two of the friendliest dogs you will ever meet! Both are aged around a year old and love to be walked and snuggled with. Phillip is a Pomeranian and Pekingese mix, while Jack is likely an assortment of small dog breeds! These two are the best of friends and would fit into any family. To learn more about these two handsome dogs, come on down to Valley Humane Society located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton. Open Tues- Sat from 11AM to 5PM. Call 925-426-8656 or visit the website www.valleyhumane.org for more information on our adoptable pets.”

Jack and Phillip

We do have two dogs available at the shelter!

Jack and Phillip are truly anxious to meet you and hope you come on down to see them!

Patch Article: Halloween is Scary for Pets Too!

Below is the link for the Pet Corner article of the week. This week it is about how to make your pet feel more comfortable during a time of "Trick or Treat".

Happy reading!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/pet-corner-halloween-is-scary-for-pets-too

Tips for your pets fearful of noises on Halloween

Do you have pets that are afraid all of the noises and strange sights of Halloween?

If so, take a look at this week's Pleasanton Patch article!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/pet-corner-halloween-is-scary-for-pets-too

Building Update

The building is up and coming!

The construction crew is there almost every day working.

We have all of the exterior walls, interior beams, and windows! They have the framing up for all of the dog kennels, and seperate rooms.

They have been working on the heating and electricity for the past week which is incredible!

We are all so excited over here and cannot wait for the finished product.

“Are you looking for a perfect kitten that will light up your world? If so, come on down to meet Aries. Aries is an extroverted, playful kitten who was left behind in the cold and the rain with twelve other small kittens in August. If you are a horoscope addict, we also have Scorpio, Leo, and Virgo. To meet these kittens and plenty others, come on down to Valley Humane Society's Kitty City, located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton. Open Tues- Sat from 11AM to 5PM. Call 925-426-8656 or visit the website www.valleyhumane.org for more information on our adoptable pets.”

Posh

Posh Spice was adopted today!

She was featured as the pet of the week, and so many people seemed to fall in love!

After a long day of visitors, she went home to her new family.

Congratulations Posh!

Patch Article: Rabies Vaccines

Below is the link for the Pet Corner article of the week. This week it is about the importance of the rabies vaccine.

Happy reading!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/pet-corner-the-importance-of-rabies-vaccines

Gelato

Gelato, of the Italians, was adopted tonight to a great home!

Congratulations Gelato.

Her new owner is more than ecstatic to take such a beautiful kitty home.

Pet of the Week: Posh

Don’t be suspicious of this black cat! She is a sweet girl looking for a home before Halloween comes. Posh Spice has been a resident here since last November and is really anxious for her forever family. Shelter life gets a little bland when you’ve been here so long! If you are interested in adding zest to your family, come on down to Valley Humane Society's Kitty City, located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton. Open Tues- Sat from 11AM to 5PM. Call 925-426-8656 or visit the website www.valleyhumane.org for more information on our adoptable pets.

Juliet

Juliet was just adopted too!

Aquarius, Tully, Peet, Starbuck, and Dunkin'

Aquarius was the first to get adopted today. She was adopted to a family with no other pets, and they were thrilled to have this new energy in their home. The parents hadn't had a pet in a while, so they were really looking forward to it.

Then all of the Coffee Shop Pups found great homes! We got tons of applications, and sending them home was very exciting!

Patch Article: Hiking with Your Pet

Below is the link for the Pet Corner article of the week. This week it is about hiking with your pet.

Happy reading!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/pet-corner-hiking-with-your-pets

Dog Adoption Day

Tomorrow is a Dog Adoption Day. We will have four puppies at the shelter from 11AM to 1PM.

At this time, the public will be able to meet the puppies and fill out applications.

After 1PM, our Dog Adoption Committee will meet to decide who is the best home for the puppy and the family.

It is a very exciting.

And, as always, we have tons of cats and kittens waiting for their forever homes!

Pleasanton Patch

The second Pleasanton Patch article was published today.

Here is the link:

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/pet-corner-hiking-with-your-pets

Romeo

Romeo was adopted this morning!

His sister Juliet, a beautiful Calico, is still available for adoption.

Pet of the Week: Tully

Meet Tully of the Coffee Shop Puppy Litter. Tully is a female mixed breed with three brothers, Starbuck, Dunkin’, and Peet. These puppies are cuddlesome, delectable, and tempting. They would love a home of their own, so come on down to meet them at our next Dog Adoption Day, October 16, at Valley Humane Society located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton. Open Tues- Sat from 11AM to 5PM. Call 925-426-8656 or visit the website www.valleyhumane.org for more information on our adoptable pets.

Optic

Optic, of the Eyeballs litter, was just adopted to a very loving and energetic family!

The only Eyeball left is Iris!

Patch Article: Microchips

Below is the link for the Pet Corner article of the week. This week it is about microchips!

Happy reading!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/the-facts-about-micro-chipping

Pleasanton Patch

Hi everyone!

Are you interested in learning more about responsible pet ownership?

If so, check out the brand new column, Pet Corner, on the Pleasanton Patch website (www.pleasanton.patch.com).

All the articles are written by me, Melissa!

I am very excited and look forward to providing everyone some more information.

Here is the link to this week's article!

http://pleasanton.patch.com/articles/the-facts-about-micro-chipping

Pet of the Week: Sunshine

“You are my Sunshine, my only Sunshine; you make me happy, when skies are grey! Meet Sunshine, a shy kitty with a joyous spirit. Her favorite activities include being pet, and lying in the sun! She is an infallible addition to these scorching hot autumn days we have had. To add some radiance to your home, come on down to Valley Humane Society's Kitty City, located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton. Open Tues- Sat from 11AM to 5PM. Call 925-426-8656 or visit the website www.valleyhumane.org for more information on our adoptable pets.

New Facebook Community Page!

Hello readers!

We have a brand new Valley Humane Society Facebook Community page.

Please "like" this brand new, updated version, for the best VHS news around!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pleasanton-CA/Valley-Humane-Society/159428990747935

If you are a twitter person, Please "Follow" us here!

http://twitter.com/ValleyHumaneSoc

Pisces and Libra

Pisces and Libra were adopted today to a great family!!

We still have Aries, Leo, Virgo, Aquarius, and Scorpio of the Signs Litter to be adopted.

Come visit us!

Versace

Versace just went home with a very nice lady who has no other pets!

Congratulations to this sweet little kitten.

Building Update

Our building is really coming along.

They poured the cement a little over a month ago, and since then the workers have been out there every day working to help us build our new adoption facility.

Right now the external walls are up, and the majority of the interior walls seem to be as well!

I have many pictures I intend on posting to share, very soon!

Thank you everybody!

Papaya and Lynx

Miss Papaya got adopted today to a great couple who were so excited when they met such a lovey-dovey kitten. They were more than enthusiastic to walk out the door with her!

Then, Lynx was adopted to the same great family who adopted Pupil a couple weeks ago. Congratulations to this family and their new kittens!

Gemini

Gemini went home today!

I absolutely adored Gemini- her favorite thing to do was to sit on my shoulders and watch me work. I'm so glad she got adopted, because I was getting a bit too attached!

Temple

Temple was adopted today by a great lady who just bought her own house and couldn't wait to adopt a pet of her own!

His new name is Franklin.

Pet of the Week: Optic

"Did this cutie catch your eye? If so, meet Optic! As his name implies, he is just looking for love. Optic, along with his siblings Lash and Iris are adorable kittens awaiting their forever homes. Playful, captivating, and eye-catching describe these kittens perfectly. If you think you can see yourself with this handsome cat, come down to Valley Humane Society's Kitty City , located at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton. Open Tues- Sat from 11AM to 5PM. Call 925-426-8656 or visit the web itewww.valleyhumane.org for more information.”

Glinda

Glinda was adopted today!

She had only been in Kitty City a day or two, so it was great to see her go so fast!

The family who adopted her, were a VHS foster family about 7 years ago. How fabulous!

Lyric

Lyric, of the Musics, was officially adopted today!

Barney

Barney, one of our beloved senior kitty, was adopted today to a great lady!

He was about 10 years old and was not very happy in a shelter setting.

It's great to see our senior kitties get adopted.

Pupil

Pupil, of the "Eyeballs" was adopted this afternoon to a really great family.

I'm so happy for them and him.

The family is even considering coming back for another one soon!

Penny Lane, Buddy, Bert & Ernie

Penny Lane was the first to be adopted this afternoon to a great family. I'm sure she will fit in perfectly!

Then, Buddy (my favorite dog) was adopted! Hehe!

And, lastly Bert and Ernie were adopted together and are doing great!

Arnie

Arnie, our beloved Chihuahua mix was finally adopted today.

It is so exciting that this sweet dog finally found his forever home.

Adoption Follow Up: Butch

"Melissa, All is well with Butch. He seems to have adjusted nicely to his new life. I know that he lost 3lbs while he was with you guys and has since put on 1lb since moving here. We will keep an eye on him and try to keep his weight in check. We decided to keep his name which seems to fit him but he answers to my wifes variation of Butchy Boy. He is always with one of us and could'nt be more affectionate. He sleeps at the foot of our bed by my wifes feet and never bothers us the entire night. I think all involved are extemely lucky to have gotten together and thanks to you guys for making it possible. He is a great cat! We could'nt be happier. Thanks, Barry"

Adoption Follow Up: Watson

Melissa~

Watson is now Tajha or Taj Meow. She is doing great. She is a little piggy and she is definitely the dominant one here. I will send pictures of here coloring coming in. She sleeps with my 2 male cats on top of the Guinea Pig cage in front of the window. One of the male cats (Tripper) thinks he is her dad or mom and cleans her all the time. She still doesn't understand that when I am cooking she can't be in the pots. lol! She is extremely nosey! Thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to giving her a great home. I will take pictures and send you guys some.

~Bev

Jello

Jell-o was adopted today!

He is living with Calendar Contest winner, Jordie and his family!

Congratulations Jell-o!

Skunk and Hallie

Skunk and Hallie were adopted together today!

Wasp

Wasp was adopted today after only being in Kitty City for thirty minutes!

This is so great! She was a little bit shy, so it's nice to see her adopted so soon!

Daphne

Daphne was adopted today! She is so happy in her new home.

Calendar Contest Results

TOP 13 PHOTOS:
1. Photo 47 Sweetpea-1312 votes
2. Photo 7 Cookie- 1300 votes
3. Photo 40 Jordie- 1173 votes
4. Photo 45 Buddy- 1162 votes
5. Photo 14 Mac- 1122 votes
6. Photo 6 Socrates- 900 votes
7. Photo 3 Mo- 862 votes
8. Photo 37 Chesney- 825 votes
9. Photo 35 Daisey- 802 votes
10. Photo 22 Roxy- 742 votes
11. Photo 36 Dante- 705 votes
12. Photo 23 Wanda- 646 votes
13. Photo 26 Izzy- 636 votes

Honorable Mention:
14. Photo 29 Huey with 550 votes
15. Photo 13 Tigger Atop Potekke with 541 votes
16. Photo 21 Kris with 500 votes


Congratulations Everyone!!


The final voting tally will be posted tomorrow, but we raised over 16,000 dollars!

Cinderella and Melody

Cinderella was adopted today!

And Melody also went home!

This is so great and I am so excited.

Don't forget that voting ends tonight at midnight. That's in just under an hour!

Calendar Contest Update Day 14!

Hello everyone!

Tomorrow is the last and final day of the contest voting. Keep it up!!

Here are our current standings:

#1. Photo 47 Sweetpea with 703 votes

#2. Photo 14 Mac with 679 votes

#3. Photo 35 Daisey with 651 votes

#4. Photo 40 Jordie with 577 votes

#5. Photo 45 Buddy with 567 votes

#6. Photo 6 Socrates with 525 votes

#7. Photo 7 Cookie with 506 votes

#8. Photo 36 Dante with 505 votes

#9. Photo 46 Huntley with 420 votes

#10. Photo 18 Zoe with 355 votes

#11. Photo 3 Mo with 300 votes

#12. Photo 26 Izzy with 285 votes

#13. Photo 37 Chesney with 276 votes

Here are our totals for tonight:

8,922

Calendar Contest Update Day 13

Hello everyone!

Welcome to the 13th day of voting. It gets more and more thrilling everyday.

Here are our top 13 for today.

#1. Photo 47 Sweetpea with 703 votes

#2. Photo 14 Mac with 629 votes

#3. Photo 40 Jordie with 577 votes

#4. Photo 45 Buddy with 556 votes

#5. Photo 35 Daisey with 531 votes

#6. Photo 6 Socrates with 475 votes

#8. Photo 7 Cookie with 420 votes

#8. Photo 46 Huntley with 420 votes

#9. Photo 36 Dante with 405 votes

#10. Photo 18 Zoe with 355 votes

#11. Photo 26 Izzy with 285 votes

#12. Photo 3 Mo with 280 votes

#13. Photo 37 Chesney with 276 votes

Check out how close those last 3 spots are! Wow!

Here is our total for today:

8,449

Miss Piggy

Miss Piggy was adopted today!

Also Melody will be going home on Tuesday afternoon! Yahoo!

It's lovely when we have adoptions :)

Calendar Contest Update Day 12

Hello everyone!

Here is the update for today, Day 12!

#1. Photo 47 Sweetpea with 678 votes

#2. Photo 14 Mac with 629 votes

#3. Photo 40 Jordie with 577 votes

#4. Photo 45 Buddy with 556 votes

#5. Photo 35 Daisey with 506 votes

#6. Photo 6 with 465 votes

#7. Photo 46 Huntley with 420 votes

#8. Photo 36 Dante with 405 votes

#9. Photo 7 Cookie with 365 votes

#10. Photo 18 Zoe with 330 votes

#11. Photo 26 Izzy with 285 votes

#12. Photo 3 Mo with 280 votes

#13. Photo 29 Huey with 242 votes

Our total votes are 8,227.

Isis and Cairo

Isis and Cairo were adopted together today to a great family. They're going to have a lot of fun together!

Calendar Contest Update Day 11

Here are the current standings for Day 11:

#1. Photo 47 Sweetpea with 678 votes

#2. Photo 14 Mac with 628 votes

#3. Photo 40 Jordie with 512 votes

#5. Photo 35 Daisey with 506 votes

#5. Photo 45 Buddy with 506 votes

#6. Photo 6 Socrates with 402 votes

#7. Photo 36 Dante with 400 votes

#8. Photo 46 Huntley with 395 votes

#9. Photo 3 Mo with 275 votes

#10. Photo 29 Huey with 236 votes

#11. Photo 25 Izzy with 225 votes

#12. Photo 7 Cookie with 220 votes

#13. Photo 37 Chesney with 206 votes

And, our total vote count is 7565.

Verizon and Biscotti

Verizon and Biscotti were just adopted together!

It is so great to see kittens get out of the shelter, especially two together!

Calendar Contest Update Day 10

Here are the current top photos:

#1. Photo 47 Sweetpea with 558 votes

#2. Photo 35 Daisey with 506 votes

#3. Photo 45 Buddy with 486 votes

#4. Photo 40 Jordie with 472 votes

#5. Photo 6 Socrates with 402 votes

#6. Photo 36 Dante with 400 votes

#7. Photo 46 Huntley with 395 votes

#8. Photo 14 Mac with 368 votes

#9. Photo 3 Mo with 275 votes

#10. Photo 26 Izzy with 225 votes

#11. Photo 29 Huey with 211 votes

#13. Photo 18 Zoe with 203 votes

#13. Photo 31 Fresco with 203 votes

The total for today is: 6,841

Dragon

Dragon was adopted by his foster family today. Congratulations Dragon!

Beetle

Beetle was just adopted! That's so great. I am so excited!

Calendar Contest Update Day 9

Here are our current rankings!

Keep voting everyone, we are doing great!

#1. Photo 47 Sweetpea with 548 votes

#2. Photo 45 Buddy with 486 votes

#3. Photo 35 Daisey with 481 votes

#4. Photo 46 Huntley with 395 votes

#5. Photo 14 Mac with 368 votes

#6. Photo 6 Socrates with 350 votes

#7. Photo 40 Jordie with 337 votes

#8. Photo 36 Dante with 330 votes

#9. Photo 26 Izzy with 225 votes

#10. Photo 29 Huey with 211 votes

#11. Photo 31 Fresco with 203 votes

#12. Photo 18 Zoe with 201 votes

#13. Photo 37 Chesney with 181 votes

Total votes for this morning is: 6,211.

Calendar Contest Update Day 8

Here is our update for today:

#1. Photo 47 Sweetpea with 586 votes

#2. Photo 45 Buddy with 486 votes

#3. Photo 14 Mac with 368 votes

#4. Photo 35 Daisey with 356 votes

#5. Photo 6 Socrates with 350 votes

#6. Photo 36 Dante with 330 votes

#7. Photo 40 Jordie with 317 votes

#8. Photo 26 Izzy with 225 votes

#9. Photo 29 Huey with 211 votes

#10. Photo 18 Zoe with 181 votes

#11. Photo 44 Sunnie with 157 votes

#13. Photo 23 Wanda with 136 votes

#13. Photo 37 Chesney with 136 votes

Our total vote count for this afternoon is : 5,286

Calendar Contest Update Day 7

#1. Photo 44 Buddy with 486 votes

#2. Photo 35 Daisey with 356 votes

#3. Photo 47 Sweetpea with 348 votes

#4. Photo 14 Mac with 342 votes

#6. Photo 6 Socrates with 330 votes

#6. Photo 36 Dante with 330 votes

#7. Photo 40 Jordie with 277 votes

#8. Photo 26 Izzy with 225 votes

#9. Photo 29 Huey with 211 votes

#10. Photo 18 Zoe with 181 votes

#11. Photo 44 Sunnie with 157 votes

#13. Photo 23 Wanda with 136 votes

#13. Photo 37 Chesney with 136 votes

The total amount we have in votes right now is: 4,911

Calendar Contest Update Day #6

Don't forget to "BARK THE VOTE" now!

Here are our current rankings:

#1. Photo 44 Buddy with 431 votes

#2. Photo 35 Daisey with 356 votes

#3. Photo 47 Sweetpea with 348 votes

#5. Photo 6 Socrates with 330 votes

#5. Photo 36 Dante with 330 votes

#6. Photo 14 Mac with 292 votes

#7. Photo 40 Jordie with 277 votes

#8. Photo 26 Izzy with 225 votes

#9. Photo 29 Huey with 211 votes

#10. Photo 18 Zoe with 181 votes

#11. Photo 44 Sunnie with 157 votes

#13. Photo 23 Wanda with 136 votes

#13. Photo 37 Chesney with 136 votes

Here are 14th, 15th, and 16th too....

#14. Photo 7 Cookie with 130 votes

#16. Photo 3 Mo with 105 votes

#16. Photo 21 Kris with 105 votes

Total for votes today is:

4,800

Italy

Italy was adopted today to the same family who has former VHS kitty Jet. Jet's new name is Apollo, and they are thinking of naming Italy..Athena!

Apollo and Athena are about the same age, so they could be "long lost siblings." Hehe!

Congratulations Italy!

Calendar Contest Update Day #5

Here is today's update for the calendar contest:

#1. Photo 45 Buddy with 406 votes

#2. Photo 35 Daisey with 356 votes

#3. Photo 47 Sweetpea with 348 votes

#5. Photo 6 Socrates with 330 votes

#5. Photo 36 Dante with 330 votes

#6. Photo 14 Mac with 292 votes

#7. Photo 40 Jordie with 277 votes

#8. Photo 26 Izzy with 225 votes

#9. Photo 29 Huey with 211 votes

#10. Photo 18 Zoe with 171 votes

#11. Photo 37 Chesney with 135 votes

#12. Photo 44 Sunnie with 127 votes

#13. Photo 23 Wanda with 116 votes

The total votes are at 4,570.

Calendar Contest Update Day #4

Here are today's results!

#1. Photo 45 Buddy with 406 votes

#2. Photo 35 Daisey with 356 votes

#3. Photo 47 Sweetpea with 338 votes

#4. Photo 6 Socrates with 262 votes

#5. Photo 40 Jordie with 257 votes

#6. Photo 36 Dante with 230 votes

#7. Photo 14 Mac with 212 votes

#8. Photo 18 Zoe with 171 votes

#9. Photo 29 Huey with 160 votes

#10. Photo 44 Sunnie with 117 votes

#11. Photo 37 Chesney with 110 votes

#12. Photo 3 Mo with 105 votes

#14. Photo 2 Josie with 100 votes

#14. Photo 26 Izzy with 100 votes

Our total vote count for this morning is 3,736.