In Memory of Don Tyrrell

Don was a wonderful hooman.  So is his beloved wife, Libby.  They first heard of Rikki’s Refuge many years ago when they read in the Freelance Star about the terrible snow storm of December 2005 that collapsed the roofs of our Cat Runs.  They wanted to help.  They came to visit to see first hand what a mess it all was.  And they made a very generous donation to help us buy the materials so things could be repaired.  Don and Libby have been avid supporters of Rikki’s Refuge ever since! 

We are very saddened to hear of Don’s passing.  68 is far too young to loose a kind and loving person.  Our heartfelt sympathies are with you Libby, as we can only imagine how much you miss Don. 

You can make a donation in memory of Don http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php to help the animals he so loved at Rikki’s Refuge.  Add a note in the comments and I’ll include it here.


Thank you for remembering Don
Laura Koval :  In Memory of Donald A Tyrrell Jr. You will be truly missed. From: Grease Monkey of Fredericksburg

Lois Hamaker             

Marc and Susan Hamaker

Don was a free spirit and a wonderful uncle who inspired us to live life by our own rules. His love of animals proves how big his heart was, and we were especially touched to learn about his support of Rikki's Refuge. We're happy to donate to an organization that he cared so much about, and we're proud to do this in his honor.

Sandy Wynant

Susanne Mullins 

Mary-Gena T Kunz

Vincent and Candy's Tree of Hope and Life

April 27^th Vincent and Candy Memorial

This Saturday we celebrate the lives of two souls who were so very special to Rikki’s Refuge.  Two souls, who without them, Rikki’s Refuge would not be what it is today. 

Our Beloved Spokes Kitty Vincent D. Cat and Catnip Candy Erhard. 

http://rikkisrefuge.blogspot.com/2013/04/april-27-2013-saturday-candy-erhard-and.html

Paul Erhard will dedicate the Tree of Hope and Life in memory of his beloved wife, Candy, and his dear friend, Vincent. 

Paul requests that friends honor Candy’s and Vincent’s memories by bringing gifts to Rikki’s that remind us of them.

Fancy Feast or canned cat food in memory of Vincent, the cat who could never get enough Fancy Feast.

Black trash bags, paper towels, laundry detergent, dish soap and bleach in memory of Candy, Rikki’s Super Shopper.  Candy could never pass up a sale when it concerned her Rikki’s Refuge!

All gifts will be placed under the Tree of Hope and Life to celebrate their lives.

If you can't come to the celebration but would like to honor Candy and/or Vincent, you can make a donation in their memory and we'll put your name under the Tree of Hope and Life. 
http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php 


This is a Ticket Holder's event ONLY and not open for general admission.  If you're interested in tickets,  you'll find the details here http://rikkisrefuge.blogspot.com/2013/04/april-27-2013-saturday-candy-erhard-and.html    It's past Ticket deadline and we're very close to capacity, get in touch immediately if you want to come and we'll do our best to squeeze you in -- information in the previous link.

Good Morning Good News !!!! April 24, 2013

Kitty, the night she was on death row, before coming to Rikki’s Refuge

Mom was 15 minutes late getting where she was supposed to git this morning.  Kitty's been with us about a year and a half.  She was 13 when her hooman mom died and she got tossed out and then hauled into a kill shelter.  

 She was scared and angry and she growled and snarled.  Not exactly the kitty many people are going to adopt.  Thank goodness she got out and came to Rikki's where we don't think you have to love hoomans to be allowed to love life.   

Kitty has found it hard to love and trust again.  Mom has lots of scars to show for that !!!!  

Well today, for the first time ever, Kitty came up to her ..... and mom just happened to have been doing a quick stop in litterbox before running out the door .... and jumped up on her lap and reached up and nose kissed her and then snuggled in and looked up at mom saying, "I might be able to love you after all, will you love me?"  

And what could mom do?  No way could she say, "oh sorry, not now!"  And so she sat there and she snuggled Kitty.  When Kitty got down, then mom got off to where she was supposed to be.   

In a year ... or even tomorrow ... will anybody remember mom was late?  But Kitty will always remember that moment when she first began to love and trust again!  Thank YOU for helping Kitty get to Rikki's Refuge!

Kitty, now happily at home at Rikki’s Refuge

Thank you for supporting kitties, doggies, rabbits, guinea pigs, horses and others like Kitty and giving them that second chance .....  cuz sometimes three days just isn’t enough.

Your click and donation saves lives http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php

Mmmmmm

I can taste it all ready

Mmmmm the Fancy Feast I can eat

when YOU help me win $1,000

Please CLICK here and help me WIN

Every Day !!

It's real easy .... click on Vincent above or go here http://animalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/shelterchallenge.faces?siteId=3

and enter Rikkis Refuge, Orange, VA, USA and follow the directions ...

Contest ends April 28^th -- we need your daily votes !!  

April 27^th Vincent and Candy Memorial

This Saturday we celebrate the lives of two souls who were so very special to Rikki’s Refuge.  Two souls, who without them, Rikki’s Refuge would not be what it is today. 

Our Beloved Spokes Kitty Vincent D. Cat and Catnip Candy Erhard. 

http://rikkisrefuge.blogspot.com/2013/04/april-27-2013-saturday-candy-erhard-and.html

Paul Erhard will dedicate the Tree of Hope and Life in memory of his beloved wife, Candy, and his dear friend, Vincent. 

Paul requests that friends honor Candy’s and Vincent’s memories by bringing gifts to Rikki’s that remind us of them.

Fancy Feast or canned cat food in memory of Vincent, the cat who could never get enough Fancy Feast.

Black trash bags, paper towels, laundry detergent, dish soap and bleach in memory of Candy, Rikki’s Super Shopper.  Candy could never pass up a sale when it concerned her Rikki’s Refuge!

All gifts will be placed under the Tree of Hope and Life to celebrate their lives.

If you can't come to the celebration but would like to honor Candy and/or Vincent, you can make a donation in their memory and we'll put your name under the Tree of Hope and Life. 
http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php 

Love you bunches,

           Opie

2013 is the Year of the Purr ....

Join the movement ... we’re adding purr to planet earth !

 Look! It's a great car magnet with the world's most loved cat -- Vincent Cat!!!!

"What Would Vincent Do?"

He'd "Purr More, Hiss Less".

Magnet is $5 each, plus shipping (65-cents for 1 magnet, $1.05 for 2 for U.S. addresses). For other shipping costs (international, or for more than 2 magnets) contact Melissa Felts dogslife24@comcast.net  with your zip code and how many you want.     Purchase your magnet TODAY right here http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php

Don't be the LAST person on your block

to have a PURR MORE HISS LESS magnet on your car!

Order YOURS today !!

Good Morning Good News !!!! April 23, 2013

Meet Taco - our tail-less Havana Brown - he ended up being picked in up Georgia as a stray after being injured, probably a car accident.  Winging Cat Rescue got him out and got medical care, including surgery to amputate the injured tail.  Well all seemed well as Taco was healing.  Taco got happy and healthy and purred .... but he still had one problem.  Spinal injuries let him incontinent.  And that made him rather un-adoptable!

And so soon Taco was on the road to Rikki’s !!!!!

Taco and his un-adoptable friends want to thank you for supporting Rikki’s Refuge so they have a place to call HOME!!

Mmmmmm

I can taste it all ready

Mmmmm the Fancy Feast I can eat

when YOU help me win $1,000

Please CLICK here and help me WIN

Every Day !!

It's real easy .... click on Vincent above or go here http://animalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/shelterchallenge.faces?siteId=3

and enter Rikkis Refuge, Orange, VA, USA and follow the directions ...

Contest ends April 28^th -- we need your daily votes !!  

So many Volunteers !!!

Busy busy weekend!!  Individuals, scouts, Osburn Park High Key Club and back for a visit Jessica a former Osburn Park High Key Club Girl with a group from Longwood University !!!  We love it when “our” kids volunteer and grow up with us, and bring more friends and later their kids to volunteer too!!!! 

Watch how hard these kids work !!!!

Love you bunches,

           Opie

2013 is the Year of the Purr ....

Join the movement ... we’re adding purr to planet earth !

 Look! It's a great car magnet with the world's most loved cat -- Vincent Cat!!!!

"What Would Vincent Do?"

He'd "Purr More, Hiss Less".

Magnet is $5 each, plus shipping (65-cents for 1 magnet, $1.05 for 2 for U.S. addresses). For other shipping costs (international, or for more than 2 magnets) contact Melissa Felts dogslife24@comcast.net  with your zip code and how many you want.     Purchase your magnet TODAY right here http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php

Don't be the LAST person on your block

to have a PURR MORE HISS LESS magnet on your car!

Order YOURS today !!

Good Morning Good News !!!! April 22, 2013

Greetings from Lake Michigan !!!  Can you see me, Vincent, sitting there on this great big sign!!!  I’m visiting my friend Deb Forrest and she’s taking me around to all the sights.  Rainbow Bridge is a great place, sunshiny all the time.  Though I like to spend time on my favorite planet, visiting my favorite friends !!! 

Earth Day --- what a purrfect day to reflect on how wonderful it is to be here together!  Look at the sun shine, the flowers blossom, the leave turn green.  No matter what hoomans can do to try and mess things up and make us unhappy ... our Earth, our very own Earth, is always here to give us beauty and joy.  If you’re feeling down ... take a walk with nature .. it can’t help but make you happy and hopeful!

Let’s start off with something important -- only a week left in the Shelter Challenge Contest --- VOTE !!!

Mmmmmm

I can taste it all ready

Mmmmm the Fancy Feast I can eat

when YOU help me win $1,000

Please CLICK here and help me WIN

Every Day !!

It's real easy .... click on Vincent above or go here http://animalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/shelterchallenge.faces?siteId=3

and enter Rikkis Refuge, Orange, VA, USA and follow the directions ...

Contest ends April 28^th -- we need your daily votes !!  

Happy Birthday EARTH

 -- my FAVORITE planet ever !!!! Do something nice for our Earth today ... pick up some trash, plant a tree, feed the wildlife, go outside and look around and really see this wonderful planet we're allowed to live on, the sky, the trees, the rivers, the oceans, take a look around and be thankful for this wonderful planet and all year long help me keep it clean and healthy.

Working together to make the world, the planet, the earth a better place is something we’ve been doing together for years.  We work to help the animals, we work to help the people.  And let’s never forget to work to help our Earth!! 

Recycling is one way to help.  And you can feed two cats with one bowl (cuz you know, at a no kill sanctuary we don’t use that saying about birds) by recycling.   Here’s how you can recycle for Rikki’s http://rikkisrefuge.blogspot.com/2011/07/recycle-for-rikkis.html 

And no matter where you are, you can recycle and help your favorite animal rescue.  Yes you can !!!!    Well if you live in Antarctica I don’t know if they have recycling places, but in the USA they sure do and I bet in lots of other places too!!  

And this is what you can do.  Collect your own recycling, metal especially, but glass and paper and cardboard .... take it to the recyclers.  Now that’s one good thing right there.  Good for our planet.  Take the money you’re paid for turning in your recycling and donate it to Rikki’s, or your home town shelter!!  See !!!  Now you’re fed two cats from one bowl!!!!   How cool is that!!

If you live where you can do it, this is an idea I’ve seen lots of folks doing.  Set a trailer out near the road -- obviously this doesn’t work for my city mice friends -- and put a sign up FREE METAL DUMP.  Your neighbors who don’t want to travel all the way to the recyclers will load up old junk, appliances that don’t work and the like.  When it’s full, hitch up and haul it to the recycler -- you’ll make more for your efforts AND you can donate that !!!! 

What Does Rikki’s Do for the Earth?

That’s a good question!  And the answer is LOTS!!  Rikki’s is now 450 acres big ... and 350 of that is woods and wetlands and shall be preserved forever.  Yes, that’s really an itty bitty part of the planet.  But it’s a great big home for tens of thousands of wildlife to live in peace.  Natural space, natural fauna, natural wildlife is getting scarcer and scarcer on our planet, all we can preserve, we should.

We’ve had some experts out lately studying the diversity of species in the woods here at Rikki’s.  They’ve found that we have a very nice healthy bear population!!!  Is that cool??  And do these bear bother us?  No way!!  With 350 acres, they’ve got lots of room to roam.  LOTS .... and so they are happy. 

Wildlife  usually does their own thing in their own place ... unless they are displaced by da hoomans, then they gotz no place to go but your trash for nums ....  and how can you blame them for that!

In addition to lots of bear evidence ... our experts have found and are very intrigued by evidence of a much larger critter lurking in the woods .... big BIG prints .... claw marks WAY up high on trees ... odd clumps of fur ....  it’s being investigated .... and we’re hoping to welcome a most unusual species into the protection of Rikki’s Refuge !!!

Rikki’s border, encompassing our 450 acres, is over 7 miles long.  To keep the land and animals protected we must keep that entire perimeter posted and we must patrol often.  We maintain special places for wildlife ready to be released by licensed rehabbers.  We are working on trails and observation areas for hoomans to mingle with nature and recharge their batteries.  It really works you know --- a good long walk in the woods and you come back feeling refreshed and ready to tackle another day!!

All this is done on donations designated specifically for our natural area.  If you’d like to be a part of this, just make a note to that effect on your donation:  http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php

Think about saving more land.  Would you be interested in buying land adjoining the refuge so it, too, can be protected forever?  What a wonderful gift to the animals!!  There’s raw land, there’s houses.  Buy up a chunk and donate it to Rikki’s and reserve the right to use it for the remainder of your life, with the peace of mind it will be kept safe for the animals forever.  Just ask us how: Mail@RikkisRefuge.org   Or make a contribution specifically for the purchase of land to be added under Rikki’s Refuge’s Umbrella of Protection.  Just mark you donation as such: http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php or Rikki’s Refuge, PO Box 1357, Orange VA 22960

It’s a good feeling to know you’re saving lives FOREVER !!!!

What I’ve learned at the bridge

is the same that we practiced together at the Refuge.  Love matters.  Kindness matters.  Lending a hand to help matters.  Gandalf has it right here ... it’s all those small ordinary deeds of kindness that matter.  Every day in Every way.  Who did you help today?  Tell me !!!  Where do you live and what did you do?  I know YOU did something good!  Opened a door for somebody, fed a feral kitty, smiled at somebody on the street.  It doesn’t take much to brighten somebody’s day ....  but it means so much to them.  When bad things happen in the world, try not to let it get you down and let it suck your good energy and intentions away ... remember to help make it go away by making the day brighter for someone else .... if we all practice this ... even on days it’s really hard ... sooner or later somebody else is practicing it ... and then somebody else .... and if we all work really hard ... in elebenty oddle years we can make the planet the most happy, the most peaceful in the universe.  Trust me!!  Try it !!!!  

Don’t ever forget ... wez at Rikki’s Refuge IS your good friends !!!!  Spend a day with the animals, or in the woods or with other volunteers and you’ll find your smile, your hope, your courage!!!

Love you bunches,

           Vincent

2013 is the Year of the Purr ....

Join the movement ... we’re adding purr to planet earth !

 Look! It's a great car magnet with the world's most loved cat -- Vincent Cat!!!!

"What Would Vincent Do?"

He'd "Purr More, Hiss Less".

Magnet is $5 each, plus shipping (65-cents for 1 magnet, $1.05 for 2 for U.S. addresses). For other shipping costs (international, or for more than 2 magnets) contact Melissa Felts dogslife24@comcast.net  with your zip code and how many you want.     Purchase your magnet TODAY right here http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php

Don't be the LAST person on your block

to have a PURR MORE HISS LESS magnet on your car!

Order YOURS today !!

Good Morning Good News !!!! April 21, 2013

Mmmmmm

I can taste it all ready

Mmmmm the Fancy Feast I can eat

when YOU help me win $1,000

Please CLICK here and help me WIN

Every Day !!

It's real easy .... click on Vincent above or go here http://animalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/shelterchallenge.faces?siteId=3

and enter Rikkis Refuge, Orange, VA, USA and follow the directions ...

Contest ends April 28^th -- we need your daily votes !!  

Rainbow Bridge

Ron Herfurth and Paul Erhard worked hard four weekends in a row to build the all new and improved Rainbow Bridge to our multi species cemetery where our animals make their final journey after a fulfilling long and natural life and where our volunteers have private areas to bury their beloved pets.  If you'd like to help support out animals living on the this side of the bridge we'd greatly appreciate your help.  $1 feeds an animal today ... Thank you, http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php

Read what others are saying

about Rikki's Refuge (Life Unlimited of Virginia) and write your review !!!  Organizations with the most number of reviews during April could win up to $20,000 !!!!  Thank you !!!

http://greatnonprofits.org/reviews/life-unlimited-of-virginia-inc/page:1/

“I've been a volunteer, fan & lover of Rikki's for over 10 years! Not only do they help so many cats, they help every walk of life that they possibly can! Anything the animals may need, they get. Whether it's medical help, food or love, these animals get everything they need! The dedicated staff works day & night to ensure the health & safety of all the Rikki's animals, sometimes staying 2-3 days in a row to make sure things are going as needed. The founder of this organization works tirelessly to submit grants & tax forms, obtain donations, doing anything & everything to help these animals. You will not find another individual who cares as much for the animals! Every donation received is used for the sole purpose of the animals in need - a rare quality to find now a days! As a whole, this organization is the tops!” --- Amy

“I became friends with Vincent Cat on Facebook and found at the other end a wonderful, caring and hard working refuge. Not only do they do help cats and dogs, but all manner of animals that other places would be turned away. And the help doesn't end with animals. As an artist I found inspiration in the many photos of the great critters who call Rikki's home. I hope one day to complete a book of cartoons inspired by these critters. To sound cliche a vote for Vinny and crew is a vote for a better future.” --Elizabeth

“Any one family, supporting the amount and diversified animals that this family has is simply incredible! I stay friends with 'Vincent Cat' on Facebook because he's a true inspiration of helping those in need that can't speak for themselves with people words. The consistent updates and photos for the last few years that I've known him has brought joy to my life when all I really needed was a reason to smile. As long as he'll keep me as a friend, I do believe we'll be distant friends for life!” --Dana

“Rikki's Refuge is unlike any other place I've ever heard of. they go far beyond just saving cats and dogs. Twenty two species of animals call Rikki's home. The volunteers are amazing...they never say "we can't". They somehow make great things happen and overcome problems where other rescues would say no, we can't help. Differently abled animals that would be killed anywhere else live and thrive there. Throw away animals with no place to call home now have wonderful lives because of Rikki's. I have been a supporter for quite some time and my first vacation in 15 years will be this year and I'm going to Rikki's!!” --Lia

Add YOUR very own review here !!!  http://greatnonprofits.org/reviews/life-unlimited-of-virginia-inc/page:1/

Love you bunches,

           Opie

2013 is the Year of the Purr ....

Join the movement ... we’re adding purr to planet earth !

 Look! It's a great car magnet with the world's most loved cat -- Vincent Cat!!!!

"What Would Vincent Do?"

He'd "Purr More, Hiss Less".

Magnet is $5 each, plus shipping (65-cents for 1 magnet, $1.05 for 2 for U.S. addresses). For other shipping costs (international, or for more than 2 magnets) contact Melissa Felts dogslife24@comcast.net  with your zip code and how many you want.     Purchase your magnet TODAY right here http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php

Don't be the LAST person on your block

to have a PURR MORE HISS LESS magnet on your car!

Order YOURS today !!

Good Morning Good News !!!! April 20, 2013

Mmmmmm

I can taste it all ready

Mmmmm the Fancy Feast I can eat

when YOU help me win $1,000

Please CLICK here and help me WIN

Every Day !!

It's real easy .... click on Vincent above or go here http://animalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/shelterchallenge.faces?siteId=3

and enter Rikkis Refuge, Orange, VA, USA and follow the directions ...

Contest ends April 28^th -- we need your daily votes !!  

Hi my bestest friends !!!

What you been up to?  Don’t forget to keep me up on your news!!  Drop me a note anytime.  I love to include your Good News and Exciting Adventures here -- but I can’t if I don’t know bout ‘em !!!  Vincent@RikkisRefuge.org   I love to say Happy Birthday and to let everybody know it’s your birthday -- but YOU have to let me know !!!  I can’t remember all these things and everybody’s birthday in my little head !!!  So tell me and we can all be happy together !!!

Breaking News: Toyota is smarter than Mom

MY Toyota is smarter than she who thinks she knows it all cuz she can open cans !!!!

Mmmm Hmmmm she pulls up to gas pump ... has phone on one ear ... lady at next pump starts talking to her ... guy comes out a sheetz and says OH Hey Rikki (they all think that's her name round here) youz just the lady Iz been wanting to see (that means he's got another litter of barn kittens cuz spaying is unnatural) and she pops the gas door to open and then pushes the button to lock the door

.... and a second later the locks pop back open.

She does this over and over ... staring at it in disbelief ..... till she realized the keys was still plugged in ....

purrty smart car, huh????

Lucky has gone to Rainbow Bridge.

Lucky was a very old police doggy. Many many years ago he was injured in the line of duty. He was retired and his officer took him home and Lucky lived happily with the family.

A few years later Lucky's officer died. Lucky still lived with the family and was their beloved friend ... and reminder of the husband and father of the family.

Time moved on. The officer's wife re-married. Lucky became an unwanted reminder of a time past.

Lucky ended up tied on a short lead and ignored. He got older and he got arthritis and his lead was so short he had no room to walk, never to run. His old hips and hind knees froze in place. He began to not even get up and was pooping and peeing on himself. Now he was a really unwanted doggy and he went to a high kill pound.

An officer who'd known him and his man saw him there and wanted to take him home, but she had her police dog who wouldn't tolerate another dog in the house, she called and asked if he could come to Rikki's, even if it was just to die in dignity.

And so he came. He had no light in his eyes, no wag in his tail, he couldn't stand up and he didn't want to eat. After a few days of love and patting and coaxing to eat to became ravenous.

Next the tail began to wag. Then the light came back into his eyes. We knew maybe, there'd be more good life for him. Arthritis meds were added and physical therapy. After a couple weeks he could sit up well.

After a month he was able to walk, though very stiff legged on the back and not far. He practiced his walking no matter how hard it was - he was truly a doggy with a mission.

Though he remained very thin the few years he lived with us, he was otherwise very healthy. He loved to do morning and evening rounds of the farm. When all animals are checked for the day. He followed the hooman doing rounds and helped them at every single animal neighborhood.

His gait was always a bit stiff on the rear and if he'd been laying down for a long time on one side it could take some good massaging to get a knee going sometimes. But he always made rounds. And the hooman round maker would always be patient and massage and work his knee till he could comfortably keep up.

Sunday was no different. Lucky loved laying in the sun. He hated being indoors and at night loved his post by the driveway so he could greet folks coming in in the morning. The last couple years we forced him inside when it was really cold out. He hated it, we felt bad, but he was so thin, it just seemed he needed that protection. He'd eat doorknobs, tear up doors, rip up vinyl, he really hated being enclosed even in a house!!

He spent his last day Sunday just as he did most days, lots of sun laying time, shifting around the farm to follow the sun all day. We had lots of volunteers and he checked progress on all their projects and kept an eye on everything and got lots of pats and hugs and love.

Just before evening rounds, he'd always get an extra meal. Lena went out to the field he was dozing in and told him what time it was. He popped up and followed her back towards the 9th Life Center, most of the way there he stumbled and collapsed. He was never really aware again, though he'd life his head or wag his tail a little here and there.

He'd had a stroke. He was comfortable and pain free. That first day or two is so important .. sometimes they recoup. Lena made a nice comfy bed up for Lucky and lots of kitty and doggy friends snuggled up with him. He was sleeping peacefully Sunday night when his spirit left. His body just wasn't up to fighting any more.

We'll miss you Lucky and we're thankful that you got every last drop of happy our of your life and that your passing was gentle and clam amongst your friends. Now you can play with Vincent and Nanny and Jack and so many.

YOUR support is what makes it possible for dogs like Lucky to have wonderful retirement homes where they can enjoy life to the fullest -- thank you for your support -- we appreciate even the smallest donation to help us care for our other dogs like Lucky http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php

Love you bunches,

           Opie and Timmy

2013 is the Year of the Purr ....

Join the movement ... we’re adding purr to planet earth !

 Look! It's a great car magnet with the world's most loved cat -- Vincent Cat!!!!

"What Would Vincent Do?"

He'd "Purr More, Hiss Less".

Magnet is $5 each, plus shipping (65-cents for 1 magnet, $1.05 for 2 for U.S. addresses). For other shipping costs (international, or for more than 2 magnets) contact Melissa Felts dogslife24@comcast.net  with your zip code and how many you want.     Purchase your magnet TODAY right here http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php

Don't be the LAST person on your block

to have a PURR MORE HISS LESS magnet on your car!

Order YOURS today !!

Cats vs Dogs 2013

It's April and do you know what that means?

April showers ... check.

Spring flowers... check.

And ...

Time to plant tomatoes and veggies and especially catnip .... check.

And last but not least, that means its time for...drum roll please!:

Cats vs Dogs at Rikki's!

 (Do YOU have the smarts of a cat?  Be the first reader to comment on this blog entry with what you really see in this cartoon ... HOW has Opie the Cat just demonstrated that he’s smarter than Duke the Dog?  Be the first one to tell me the right answer and you’ll win your choice of a Rikki’s Tshirt or Car Magnet !)

And hey, you know Cats are Number One right? I mean, there's lotsa reasons to vote for us:

-Cats are neater than dogs. I mean, we're self-cleaning like an oven!

     vote CAT: http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php?purpose=I%20Vote%20for%20CATS

-Cats are smarter, duh. We're above chasing balls and stuff!

     vote CAT: http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php?purpose=I%20Vote%20for%20CATS

-Cats always land on their feet!

     vote CAT: http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php?purpose=I%20Vote%20for%20CATS

-Cats are...well, what more reasons do you need?

     vote CAT: http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php?purpose=I%20Vote%20for%20CATS

Of course PLEASE don’t tell Duke I said ANY of that!

Cats vs Dogs is our annual fundraiser for the Refuge that lets YOU help determine who's better...cats (like cutie-pie ME!) or you know, those slobbering, driveling dogs.

Throughout April you can vote by donating a dollar for each vote and help determine the winner.

CATS: http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php?purpose=I%20Vote%20for%20CATS  

                                   HERE HERE CLICK HERE !!!!

or

DOGS: http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php?purpose=I%20Vote%20for%20DOGS

The proceeds go to buy nums and medicine YOUR furry friends at Rikki’s Refuge.

Sooooo....go vote!

Good Morning Good News !!!! April 10, 2013

Voting ???? 

Is it really worth my time ???

YES !!!

A few clicks every day can earn $1,000

or Rikki’s Refuge !!!

Please CLICK here

Every Day !!

It's real easy .... click on Vincent above or go here http://animalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/shelterchallenge.faces?siteId=3

and enter Rikkis Refuge, Orange, VA, USA and follow the directions ...

Spring is here !!!!!

For sure this time !!  The windows are open, the birds are here, it’s beautiful !!!!

Every season has it’s work cut out for it.  Spring is time to muck out and change from winter style bedding to summer bedding.  Some lovely Girl Scouts joined us last weekend to kick off Spring Bedding !!!  Thank you !!  All the cat runs got changed out ... and nesting boxes scrubbed down and fresh soft bedding put in.  Straw is warm for winter ... but too hot for nice spring nights !!!

Spring is also Mud Control time ... yup, that means a LOT of hard work.  Some of it can be done with the tractor .... like the driveway.  We’ve gotten our first load of gravel.  It’s up to $400 a load now ....  YIKES .... and we’ll need at least 7 more load. 

If you’d like to help us fix problems like this that were cuased by the wet and freezing winter

You can donate a truck - or part of a truck if that’s better for your budget - full of gravel.  It’s easy ... just click:  http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php    You don't even have to drive the truck -- they'll deliver it for you !!!

If you’d like to help in a more up close and purrsonal way .....  Lots of areas that the tractor can’t get to need gravel ... and the only way to get it there is to scoop it up in buckets and carry it in to the right place and dump it.  We’re working hard to raise the level of Rabbit Rotunda now so it won’t stay wet on the south side for days after a rain and we can prevent flooding during the next rainy season. 

If you can help lift and carry a few bucketfuls of gravel ... please let me know !!!  Just drop us an email mail@RikkisRefuge.org with the subject of “I’ll Move Gravel”.  It’s a great work out and it really helps the animals.

Pictures

I’ve got so many pictures I want to share ... soon soon ... I’ll get the computer time to get them formatted and out to you ....  so many animals ... so little time ...

The Easter Service was really beautiful.  Thank you Theresa for such a lovely day.  Amidst prayers for the animals we did a guided meditation.  Theresa had us sitting in a field visualizing the animals coming out of the wood to talk to us  .... when we opened our eyes ..... cus Jon yelped when Sunshing jumped to his lap and dug her claws in .... there were birds ... I mean BIRDS ...  thousands of birds and dozens of species all around ....  It was really something.

April 13, Saturday, Gravel Life and Tour

I have room on the April 13^th Gravel Lift and Tour for anyone interested --- tickets in advance $25 per person for this spring tour.  We’ll start at the Gravel Pile, load up a bucket full, and you’re lucky here, it’ll get loaded into a truck that will then meet us at the dump site, that saves us from walking ½ a mile with a 40 or 50 pound bucket !!!!    When we reach Rabbit Rotunda on the tour, everyone will dump their bucket of gravel into place !!!!  

If you come out early - must RSVP volunteer time in advance so someone can meet you at the gate - and you move 25 buckets of gravel before the noon tour --- I’ll refund your $25 ticket price !!!!

Tickets?  email mail@RikkisRefuge.org with the subject of “April 13, Saturday, Gravel Life and Tour” and we’ll send you information and how to buy your tickets on line.

Great way to start your summer weight loss program !!!!

Speaking of weight loss

I’m on a diet ... cuz my doc said I was fat ...  I had mom convinced I was fluffy till I started having trouble walking .... then she put me on a diet.  So far I’ve lost 2 ½ pounds!!!  Are you proud of me?

Volunteering and working out at Rikki’s is great exercise.  Breathe the fresh country air while mowing grass, mucking out barns, scooping poop and MOVING GRAVEL !!!! 

I guarantee a summer of 8 hour workouts at Rikki’s every weekend will have you in better shape by fall or .... hmmm or ... well ... Oh I know .... Or I’ll waive the adoption fee on your favorite critter !!!!

Memorial Service

Vincent D. Cat and Candy Erhard Memorial Day

April 27, 2013 - Saturday

It’s a special day, with a Graveside Service and headstone placement for Vincent, Celebration of Life for Candy, special memorial tour and spaghetti dinner.   Limited space, RSVP and advance tickets a must.  Here’s the details about the day, lots of photos and a memorial story of Candy and Vincent.

http://rikkisrefuge.blogspot.com/2013/04/april-27-2013-saturday-candy-erhard-and.html

If you haven’t received your ticket - they will be e-mailed - be sure to sign up today -- follow instructions in the above link.  Everyone needs a ticket ---- even if you’re volunteering for the event!!!  We need an accurate head count as facilities are limited. 

I hope you can join us for smiles and tears on April 27^th.

This Message

is brought to you by Candy and Vincent --- they both had the best - smile, be happy, and make your future - attitude !!!! 

Next - a wedding !

May 4, Saturday, Rikki’s Refuge will be hosting our first wedding !!!   Wayne Morris - the world famous artist who designed our Vincent Ts and Vicki Gielen from Australia -- yes, the lovebirds who were visiting in February - will be tying the knot at a ceremony at Rikki’s

Stay tuned for details !!

Sampson needs serious help

Sampson was born with a birth defect affecting both knees.  He couldn’t walk, but instead crouched and hopped along.  He was getting along ok, but soon the bone rubbing on bone would cause problems .... and he couldn’t keep up with his friends ... he couldn’t jump ... he couldn’t run.

Early one morning at o’ dark thirty Valerie found Sampson sitting in the driveway in front of our gate looking very lost, alone and frightened.  Thank goodness he came to her instead of running off into the woods to a fate I don’t want to think about.

We called the shelter and reported a “lost” kitty ... though we knew he wasn’t lost --- see that beautiful long fur ... so much white fur .... on a cold drizzling morning you sure wouldn’t be that white if you’d been limping down the driveway ....   No doubt Sampson was dumped by misguided hoomans.

Three weeks ago Sampson had surgery on the first knee.  Though terribly expensive, he’s able to use it now and is feeling ... well half way better ....  Yesterday he had surgery on the second knee.  He’ll come home this afternoon for a long period of convalescing and physical therapy.

And then he’s got a huge bill to pay off - dual serious knee surgery -- yikes !!!  Can you give this little guy a boost and help him pay his vet bills?

http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php   Please?

Thank you !!!!

Love you bunches,

           Opie and Timmy

2013 is the Year of the Purr ....

Join the movement ... we’re adding purr to planet earth !

 Look! It's a great car magnet with the world's most loved cat -- Vincent Cat!!!!

"What Would Vincent Do?"

He'd "Purr More, Hiss Less".

Magnet is $5 each, plus shipping (65-cents for 1 magnet, $1.05 for 2 for U.S. addresses). For other shipping costs (international, or for more than 2 magnets) contact Melissa Felts dogslife24@comcast.net  with your zip code and how many you want.     Purchase your magnet TODAY right here http://rikkisrefuge.org/donate.php

Don't be the LAST person on your block

to have a PURR MORE HISS LESS magnet on your car!

Order YOURS today !!