Scratching Pad

Hello Scratching Pad people. After two years of working in freelance marketing and a few startup jobs I had this nagging thought in the back of my mind to restart the Scratching Pad, but to do it in a way that focuses on what I’m good at - digital content - and avoiding what I’m bad at - juggling 20 cats while dealing with the landlord.

In all seriousness, I found someone who’s equally passionate but more experienced in running a non-profit.

I’m very excited about what we have planned and I think it will have a huge impact on reducing euthanization rates in NYC and building sustainable partnerships between shelters and local businesses.

http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/Linda-B-Rosenthal/story/60797

Big thanks to Jennifer Conrad of Paw Project for her work in pushing this legislation forward. Please take a few minutes out to support the cause.

For the people using mobile. The quintessential NYC kitten t-shirt 

About a month ago I was lucky enough to foster Ginsburg, one of the friendliest little kittens ever. Unfortunately Ginsburg has a problem with his GA tract and was unable to poop properly. This caused a perforated anal gland to develop and sparked my nightmare scenario - a kitten with two butts. 

I was stumped and had to send him back to the vet. He’s been there for almost a month now.

The vet decided that Ginsburg needs emergency surgery and because the staff there loves him he was personally going to cover half of the cost. Caitlin - the original foster for the kitten - started a GoFundMe campaign to try to cover the other half. 

And we’re back. 

2015 has me in the bushes working on a proper version of Scratching Pad both the foster home and as a platform to help shelters raise money and provide better feline education.

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A few days ago I received an email from Caitlin asking if I can do an emergency foster for a slightly constipated gray kitten. I met Caitlin at the Cooper Square Veterinary Hospital. (Hey Doc! if you’re looking at this right now) When the kitten came out to see us he was a little purr ball and I quickly remembered why fostering animals is one of the most awesomely rewarding things you can do in your spare time. (Seriously, it’s kitten season - register with your local rescue group). 

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A few notes about Ginsburg the kitten.

1. Was one of the tiny stars on the Rachel Comey cat rescue live stream. 

2. Took an antibiotic shot to the neck without flinching - boss kitten status.

3. If you nap anywhere there’s a 200% chance he’s curled up 1 feet away when you wake up. 

!!

When I made the declawing infographic I thought if I could stop one cat from getting declawed it would be worth it. Epic win. 

Thanks to everyone who liked and shared.

http://www.scratchingpad.org/post/66308064489/why-declawing-is-a-bad-idea-an-1-minute-guide

My friend Casey sent me a photo of Ophelia for my birthday.

Hello friend.

Yes I always interview people and get a feel for their level of familiarity with cat care-taking. So far it's been a lot of couples with cool jobs and personal friends and once in a while they still send me photos.

I also think to some extent my blog selects against the dog-fighting type, but it definitely crossed my mind.

Sunkist eating some Blue Buffalo cat cereal

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Pardon the infrequent uploads. I'm currently on route to Beijing to see family but have potentially hit a snag traveling through Prague.

For all the cat foster parents out there, please use the submit button on top if you want to publicize the adoption status of any of your cats. Please try to submit high resolution photos with good lighting for the sake of quality control.