KitttyKind Newsletter Response: Who Responded?

 

kk newsletter- response

——————————————————————————–

I do not believe my response was nasty. I simply told you to write an email to KK if you have questions prior to donating. And if you are not satisfied with the response, do not send money. I do not believe that is a nasty response.

 

If you think their newsletter is not clearly written perhaps you should volunteer to help them with editing.

 

I do believe that the intent of your posting was not to get information but instead to imply dishonesty on the part of this organization. That is against the TOC of CL as best as I am aware. If you have questions about their newsletter, how can you reasonably expect a response here.

 

As I said – rational people send emails to get information. Irrational people rant and rave in public spaces. It is not rational to expect answers on a CL pet board regarding specific programs a rescue may have. This board is for posting animals who need homes. It is easy to send an email. but that is not your intention. Clearly.

 

If you feel a charity of anykind is not providing sufficient answers do not donate to them. That is your perogative. You are not the attorney general and you are not in charge of policing non=profits unless you electing yourself to that position. Non profits need to be transparent. that is a given. So what is your point then. I would write to the non profit and ask for information.

 

And I would appreciate it if you would stop asking me questions about a rescue I am not affilitated with. You also can write to me directly as I have provided a CL email response. But of course that is not your way of interacting with people.

 

KittyKind’s Newsletter: I have Questions

Questions about KittyKind’s newletter set off a nasty response. KK originally wrote: “The TNR (trap, neuter, release) initiative has allowed feral cats to remain in a familiar environment without multiplying, but a resolution for rescued cats with behavior issues is more problematic.”

Question: Are you implying that kittykind is active in TNR?

Someone Answered: HERE IS NO SUCH IMPLICATION – They are saying that TNR intitiatives go so far. There also needs to be a way to handle cats that cannot be released who have behavior issues.

Response: Then If TNR is not what they’re writing about, perhaps it shouldn’t be included in their prelude to their article. Perhaps they needed to be clear that “it is an issue as to how to help rescued cats with behaviour issues that likely are not adoptable or cannot easliy find homes”. . . this is more clearly talking about KittyKind’s topic of “a way to handle cats that cannot be released who have behavior issues.” TNR has nothing to do with the programs referred to in this non specific way.

Question: are you saying that kittykind has a problem with rescued cats with behavior issues in general?

Someone Answered:  WHERE ON EARTH DO YOU GET THIS FROM. They are saying that it is an issue as to how to help rescued cats with behaviour issues that likely are not adoptable or cannot easliy find homes.

Response: That’s not what they posted: “a resolution for rescued cats with behavior issues is more problematic.”

2. There are limited quality homes and sanctuaries and most are at capacity.

Question: What is capacity?

Answer: ARE YOU A REALLY THAT CLUELESS AS TO THINK THAT THERE IS LOTS OF ROOM IN SANCTUARIES AT THE MOMENT> — they are saying that there is no room in sanctuaries and good foster homes are maxed out. Do you know of openings in sanctuaries at the moment — please share that with us oh wise one. Capacity meaning the sanctuaries say they cannot accept anymore cats. Capacity in a foster home depends on the amount of room and number of cats in residence. No pat answer to this as any fool would knowl.

Response: The question was really about how much is considered capacity in foster homes. So your answer that it depends on the amount of room and number of cats in residence is not a definitive answer. However, any fool would know that it is unreasonable to expect a foster home to take in more than a certain amount of cats especially when there are other cats in residence. So, it appears from your answer that there’s no policy on how many cats can be fostered in one home?

3. Nevertheless, KK has responded to this dilemma by developing a permanent, long-term care program for our unadoptable cats.

Question: What is that program? Can you be more specific? This sounds very vague.

Response: So ask for specifics about the program if you want to donate money. Most people with common sense do not just hand over money if they have questions. You are implying they are being deliberately vague. If you want to know, just ask..

Answer: You have said that I lack comprehension of English – What you said is definite and your feelings are clearly projected. I just asked for specifics about a program that is not defined. Perhaps you would prefer to my rephrasing my thought to be more comprehensible you: “Saying that they have a program seems to be very general – can you be more specific about the elements in that program?”

4. Your contribution is most needed this year as the cost of maintaining this program rose dramatically due to the escalation of commodity prices such as food and fuel.

Question: How long has this “program” been in effect?

Response: Reasonable questionl at last a reasonable question.

Answer: And what is the answer to this reasonable question?

5. We greatly appreciate contributions made specifically to this program.”

Question: To what specific program should donations be addressed?

Response: TO THE PROGRAM THEY HAVE JUST DESCRIBED. Can you not read English.

Answer: The program was never described. No answer was given, again no clarity.

Question: Will people making donations receive answers to these questions?

Response: NOT EVERYONE READING THIS HAS AS MANY PROBLEMS WITH SIMPLE COMPREHENSION AS YOU OBVIOUSLY DO.

Finally I Questioned: Is this KittyKind’s response? In NYS there are guidelines about transparency according to the Attorney General’s office and the Charities Bureau. Holding a donation over your heads should not be a reason for answering clearly – These policies and procedures should be available for everyone. Maybe to date no one has asked these questions but they’re being asked now. Do you have no answers? There is no danger in honestly answering these questions, these are specifics that everyone would appreciate knowing. The more transparency, the more trust – it is something Public Charities are encouraged to do.

Their response was:  if you want to find fault at least ask reasonable questions that are not addressed… you are just looking for stuff. The only real question you may have is can you let me know how this programs works and how long has it been around. Simple question. Now cut and paste and sent them an email like a good girl. Have you asked these questions or are you posting them hoping someone will respond… Easier to just send them an email. That is what normal people would do.

“if you want to find fault”?!! “ask reasonable questions”?!!

I’m looking for answers to these already reasonable questions! Maybe others are interested too but now you include what questions I may ask and what is reasonable and how it is easier to send them an email? Easier for who?

Are you a representative of KittyKind? Did they give you permission to answer for them?

Your response is a great disservice to them.

 

Former KittyKind Adoption Rep Made these Adoption/Foster Forms

These forms are a Community Service.  I created them to protect the General Public from being fleeced and overburdened  with sick cats as I was.   Before adopting or fostering pets get these forms and the screening questions I’ve prepared after going to court and having my case dismissed only because I didn’t have this paperwork.

 

http://www.scribd.com/doc/12929649/KittyKind-Former-Adoption-Rep-creates-AdoptionFoster-Forms-for-Public-to-Use

 

Adopting or Fostering Pets: Free Take Alongs

Screen Before Fostering or Adopting

 

You’re screened for adopting and fostering aren’t you?  You have a right to ask questions too – PRINT OUT these FORMS and use them.  There is no charge for this service.  My reasons for making these forms available are made public on http://mysite.verizon.net/vzeyfg4f/kittycatfosterpitfalls

 

Paper trails prevent “misunderstandings” or denying that a promise was made.  Signed paper holds up better than words that fade into the very air moments after being spoken.  Promises are made to be broken.   A picture is worth a thousand words – yes, keep pictures too!

 

1. Please do your homework before fostering (especially from KittyKind & Marlene Kess who was convicted of animal abuse in NJ and is now adopting out kittens in Park Slope, Brooklyn)
2. Read these forms and ask the questions that I’ve designed to protect you – policies are not something that should change depending on who is being recruited to foster or adopt..
3. Be sure to get everything in writing and signed – oral promises do not hold up in court and are easily denied by the unscrupulous.

 

BE SURE TO GET THESE ANSWERS IN WRITING WITH A SIGNATURE FROM THE AGENCY’S FOSTER CARE COORDINATOR

 

1. Length of foster care

 

                        FROM:_______________________________________

  

                        TO:__________________________________________                                                        

 

1. Do they put a maximum on number pets per house hold
2. If so, how many pets are too many?   
3. How recently vaccinated and tested (get dates)

 

VACCINATED (and dates):  
            Rabies
            Upper Resp Vacc
            Other

 

            TESTED (and dates):

            FELK/FIV
            Other

 

            TEST RESULTS: (get dates)

                     

1. Who is responsible for food & litter: 

 

 

Remember that you are doing this agency a FAVOR by providing a place for the cat to stay; by providing the necessary care and feeding the pet; monitoring for behavior and health issues and giving LOVE to the animal.  In some cases you are socializing the animal for this group who will adopt it out and collect an adoption fee plus grant money for “expenses” that they save on by fostering the pet out.         

You should not be obligated to pay for Food, Litter or Medical Costs.  They will also claim expenses to preserve their tax free status – if you spend money on the fostered animal get a letter from them for YOUR tax records.  Be sure it is dated and has the amount of money you are claiming – this line should not be left blank – it should be filled in with the correct amount.

 

 

1. What kind of follow up will be done during the foster care period?

  

1. Will someone deliver or pick up pet/provide carrier

  

1. Will someone be in touch with me on a regular basis

  

1. What vet do they use

 

EMERGENCY VET FEES

  

10.   What do they consider an emergency? Is this in agreement with what you consider an emergency?

  

11.   Who do I contact in case of an emergency (name)

  

12.   Is there a cell phone number to call in an emergency?

  

13.   What is the name/telephone number of your foster care coordinator?

 

14.   If there is an emergency and I cannot reach the contact listed above or the foster care coordinator are you prepared to reimburse me for emergency care?

 

 

15.   Does this pet currently have any contagious parasites (Fleas, Coccidia, worms, skin fungus or upper respiratory condition)

 

16.   Are there any other Medical conditions present with regard to this foster pet: (you’re giving them the opportunity to come clean with you about any other medical issues you don’t know about raising.)

 

TAKE HOME a copy of this cat’s medical files for the duration of the foster period (YOU MUST HAVE THIS IN CASE YOU HAVE TO TAKE THE CAT TO THE VET – THE VET WILL WANT TO KNOW THE CAT’S MEDICAL HISTORY)

 

Please protect yourselves and your household – incoming diseases and infections passed to you (ringworm) and your pets (upper respiratory etc) are usually not addressed by rescue groups.  In fact, see if their forms contain a clause protecting them from just this situation and decide if you really want to put yourself and your pets in this situation.

 

If they balk at answering your questions, signing forms or respecting your boundaries take it as a warning and RUN – don’t walk AWAY from this group.

Foster Care Form  INFORMATION NEEDED ABOUT PET IN EVENT OF EMERGENCY CARE A lot of this is YOUR Direct Observation at time of Foster/Adoption (Take a Picture and attach it to this file)   NAME OF PET AGE OF PET AT TIME OF FOSTER CHECK UP DONE BY:  (AGENCY/CLINIC)       FOOD PREFERENCES       CURRENTLY ON ANY MEDICATION       OTHER INSTRUCTIONS OR COMMENTS NECESSARY FOR CAT CARE                   GENERAL APPEARANCE OF CAT AT INTAKE COAT BONEY COUGHING OTHER           Name of Agency Signature and Title of Responsible Representative

 

For your records

1.      KEEP COPIES OF BILLS IN A NOTEBOOK – Never leave yourself without a copy:

2.      ANY Original BILLS HANDED OVER CAN BE “LOST”

4.      SUBMIT BILLS REGULARLY AND REPEATEDLY – This is important in case you need to go to Court

 

Name:  ______________________________________________________

Address:  ____________________________________________________

                ____________________________________________________

Telephone number:  ___________________________________________

 

 

Name of pet:

Date of veterinary visit OR OF MEDICAL CARE GIVEN

 

Attending vet

 

Reason for visit

 

Comments

Total cost of visit

 

Agency for whom fostering

Signature of Person who authorized vet visit:

 

 

KittyKind Flags these on Craigslist

Misrepresentation

How sad when KittyKind uses such poor people skills with the public they rely on for donations.

Recently, I received emails about how people are still being pressured to adopt specific cats and not the ones they wanted from KittyKind.

How sad when a child is told the kitten they held for over half and hour and hoped to take home is adopted out from under them to someone who just walked in and never spent time with the kitten.

How sad when children have to cry because mom can’t afford 2 cats. How sad when mom is pressured to adopt 2 to keep her child from crying.

How sad when after making the adoption the original kittens they wanted weren’t adopted anyway because at the last moment, a critical question was asked and the second set of people walked out empty handed also with a crying child.

HOW MUCH GOOD ARE YOU DOING IF PEOPLE WHO FOSTER KITTYKIND CATS CAN’T REACH YOU FOR MEDICATION THAT IS NOT VET PRESCRIBED (and cat not vet checked) and arrive to pick them up only to find NO ONE KNOWS ANYTHING ABOUT THE MEDS, the foster or the cat?

KittyKind is still trying to get their sick cats into the hands of good people and Seniors. Can’t believe they consider diabetic cats who also have cancer as not so hard to take care of, why don’t they keep them if it’s so manageable?

I was with KK for over 6 miserable years and they deserve to be exposed for what they have done to me; to other foster people who also had all the cats they could handle; and to vet techs who were overwhelmed and then not allowed to bring back cats for the same reasons I was given. These are all good people who should have just brought all the cats back to the store and walked away from KittyKind but probably felt doing so was an abandonment of an already miserable animal. When I tried to return all their cats to them they called me “hateful”. All of us I’m sure believed KittyKind’s story that they “just don’t have the money” that this is ultimately all about the cats.

By the way. Are they going to admit liability when they adopt out a cat as shy when it is really feral and when that feral cat attacks and seriously hurts the guileless adopter? A cat bite merits medical care because of infection that is generated by the cat’s saliva. This is a serious medical situation. I understand 2 people have already posted cat bite situations. So many more just don’t post.

KittyKind still thinks they are cat savers when they move an animal onto a home that they will then forget about.

 

 

Breach of Contract

KittyKind actually sent an email promising me vet care for the cat and 3 mos later the VET received a letter saying they would no longer pay for his vet care. The Board of Directors of KittyKind was changed and no one knew anything about the cat. The cat has one kidney and a compromised bladder.

Go to http://mysite.verizon.net/vzeyfg4f/kittycatfosterpitfalls

and see what happened when I fostered an Extra Special Cat that still needs a special diet and meds etc.

Is this any way to run a rescue?

 

 

A Promise by KittyKind is just a Bunch of Words

If KittyKind promises to give you medical care and follow up after adopting Special Needs cats from them BE SURE TO GET IT ALL ON Their Letterhead AND SIGNED TOO.

I fostered a cat that needed meds etc. actually received an email promising me vet care for the cat and 3 mos later the vet received a letter saying they would no longer pay for his vet care. The cat has one kidney and a compromised bladder.

See: http://mysite.verizon.net/vzeyfg4f/kittycatfosterpitfalls

 

 

KittyKind “Fact” Filled Article on Diabetic Cats

KittyKind minimizes diabeties: I’ve had plenty of hands on experience with diabetic cats and I’ve got to tell you, it’s not as simple as giving the cat a shot. Before adopting a diabetic cat read the website posted below it is comprehensive and written by people who know what they’re talking about. It is important to know what to expect in the long run with a diabetic cat. It is important to know that the road will be rough. If after knowing what to really expect you feel you can and want to do this type of adoption then full steam ahead and God bless you!
Will the diabetes go away?

KittyKind makes it sound as if most of the time it does. The following insert was taken from a very informative website found in Google: Keyword: Pet Diabetics (Note: This website is worth finding.)

“This is a complicated question that depends on a lot of factors. Secondary diabetes means that the diabetes is the result of a primary condition. Primary conditions that may result in diabetes include acute pancreatitis, acromegaly, or a tumor of the pancreas. Secondary diabetes can also be the result of a side effect of drugs such as steroids. If the diabetes is secondary, it might go away after the primary condition is under control. If the diabetes is the primary disease and it is the result of obesity, the diabetes will most likely improve a great deal, or completely resolve once the pet’s weight is under control. If the diabetes is the primary disease and obesity is not a factor, most likely the diabetes will not go away. But it can be successfully managed. Some cats experience transient diabetes.

What does “Honeymoon” and Transient Diabetes” mean?

Transient diabetes is not a new concept for all our cats out there in diabetes land. It is the proper term for most people to use when their pet intermittently requires no insulin. Most cats who are termed “on a honeymoon” are actually a transient diabetic. Insulin needs will wax and wane in about 20% of diabetic cats. One theory about transient diabetes in cats is that the diabetes is subclinical (you don’t see physical signs) until the pancreas is stressed by inflammation, a systemic illness, or an insulin-antagonistic drug (insulin secretion becomes reversibly suppressed). Hyperglycemia itself can also impair insulin secretion. This effect of glucose toxicity is reversible by correcting the hyperglycemic state. So with insulin given to correct the high glucose state and then also the correction of the condition or drug which caused the increased glucose in the first place, the diabetes resolves and the pet does not need insulin. Future requirements for insulin depends on the function of the beta cells and the presence of any other conditions or drugs that may again cause hyperglycemia. Honeymoon is actually a different concept altogether and often gets misused. It is just a popular — just like all facial tissues get called kleenex.

Honeymoon is an event which can occur in both cats and dogs, as opposed to transient diabetes which rarely occurs in dogs. It is called “honeymoon” because it occurs at the *beginning* of the diabetes diagnosis, usually within the first weeks to months after diagnosis. With honeymoons, there is a temporary reduction in insulin requirement but rarely a permanent or semi-permanent discontinuation of insulin. This probably has more to do with fluctuations in beta cell function than anything else. In a Type I diabetic, the beta cells usually die off and hence the end of the honeymoon.”
Again from the website:

“However, symptomatic hypoglycemic events require more intense treatment. It is important to get the glucose up quickly. Something quickly absorbed should be used such as corn syrup (Karo syrup) which is applied to the gums and oral mucosa (inside lining of the mouth). This should always be followed with regular food as the action of the syrup is often not long lasting and the hypoglycemia will recur. Therefore, close monitoring of the pet is required even when everything seems OK. The vet should be alerted of this and depending on the severity of the symptoms and your ability to monitor blood glucoses, the pet may need to be seen in the vet clinic for closer monitoring. If the hypoglycemic event is severe, hospitalization and treatment with IV glucose maybe required. Hypoglycemic events severe enough to cause serious symptoms such as extreme lethargy or seizure should be cause for admission in most cases—for blood glucose monitoring and the ability to administer IV glucose due to the very high likelihood of recurrent hypoglycemic events after initial treatment. Severe hypoglycemia can result in brain damage or death.”

The site itself explains much more about diabetic care and experiences likely to occur to a diabetic cat. From my experience: you need to have a bottle of Karo syrup readily available in case the cat goes into seizures. Monitoring on a monthly basis by a vet is very important: A fructosamine test is taken to see how “management” is going. Urine samples must be test in the morning and a blood glucose monitor is needed just like for people. The cat may need a special diet and its food and water intake monitored. Some cats respond well and some have an ongoing battle with insulin correction. If your cat has a hypoglycemic seizure and despite Karo syrup seems to be stiff and dead take it to the vet – this is something that might happen and the cat needs to be stabilized by the vet.

 

 

Maddie’s Fund Award to Extra Special Needs Cats

Shame on you KittyKind!  See: http://mysite.verizon.net/vzeyfg4f/kittycatfosterpitfalls.

In their 2006 form 990s KittyKind’s income was declared to be about $210,000. Maddie’s Fund awarded KittyKind, a Mayor’s Alliance APO, $49,000 in grant money for 2007 and in the Spring of 2008 an additional $25,000 which was for special needs cat adoptions.

Although at a trial in 2007 the Judge said to KittyKind’s attorney (from the law firm of Vernon & Ginsburg) “I advise your client to give this woman some kind of compensation because we have just been to trial and she can do whatever she wants to with this information.”

Despite the Vernon & Ginsburg’s protestations about how wonderful the group was (they are another Mayor’s Alliance protege) the Judge also told the attorney, “I don’t know how other groups operate but from what I have heard, this group has taken advantage of this kind hearted woman for over $25,000”. Referring to a lawsuit in which “this woman”, a World Trade Center survivor, who lives on disability and who because of continued promises for reimbursement, paid for many KittyKind vet bills for fostered cats the year 2004.

Isn’t it coincidental that KittyKind received $25,000 from Maddie’s Fund, according to the Maddies Fund Jan/Feb 2008 newsletter, and that this amount would satisfy the claims of this woman yet, KittyKind has failed to respond in any way to the Judge’s recommendation that some kind of compensation be made to her? At this point it is beyond illogical for KittyKind to claim that they “just don’t have the money.” KittyKind also claimed that these cats were not KittyKind rescues.

Because these fosters were taken in good faith with repeated verbal promises that these expenses would be reimbursed, this woman – as was the case with many regular KittyKind adoption representatives and volunteers, was never given Foster Forms by KittyKind to fill out – even though other Individual foster people were required to fill out foster forms. The Judge made his decision based on lack of paperwork although KittyKind also claimed lack paperwork for the Five cats they admitted were theirs.

 

Incredible Opportunity!

The year 2000. How could you see all these cats in carriers with runny noses and miserable looking and not extend a hand to help? By 2001, I wanted to stop going to Petco but I already had too many cats from 1999 to return to KittyKind. If I stopped going to their adoption site, KittyKind would forget about the cats I had. I would have been stuck with all the cats from 1999. I didn’t seem to realize that I was digging a deeper hole for myself in the year 2000.

Was told to help diabetic cat with 9U of insulin!!! Lucky the vet was there and I insisted that the dosage was too high. It would have killed the cat, who only needed 1U. Told by Director, “If he goes home with me, he’ll die for sure.”

Leo bit me through the palm of my hand tonight, I almost passed out from the pain. Cat is very upset. Marlene said to bring him back that they would euthanize him. I was shocked and later she laughed and said she was kidding – that she was not going to euthanize him.

Eventually Leo became a lovely cat but too sick with ear polyps and mouth cancer to just adopt out. KK Director said, “He’s your cat now.”

Bailey 1/15/00 My rescues Pay Intake fee
Mikey 1/29/00 My rescues Pay Intake fee
2/12/00 Given $80 by KK Director to bring Raskol home with me. He cannot eat dry food. Later found out she had received an intake fee of $250 for this cat, she had him for all of 2 minutes.
2/12/00: Returned Sadie to (Volunteer). Georgi still had upper respiratory.
2/13/00: Bring Mikey home if not adopted? – That’s what I’m told even though I paid an intake fee for him.
2/05/00 Jedi Pay Intake fee
2/12/00 Roman/ Raskol intake KK given $250 intake fee for Raskol
KK Director gave me $85 for initial food etc. He needs a special diet $30.50 for 24 cans.
2/12/00 Georgi ((Volunteer)) Bad Upper Resp
2/13/00 Ruthie Intake: Help her get over eye infection & Bad Upper Resp. Once better get Vet files; spay and return to KittyKind
2/13/00 Mikey Adopted
2/19/00 Georgi Return to (Volunteer)
2/19/00 Jedi to Petco
2/26/00 Georgi Returned to (Volunteer)
2/27/00 Jedi to New Home
3/1/00 Sadie & Georgi Until 3/11/00
3/6/00 Ruthie Spayed: Pyrometria: She’s not a young cat.
3/6/00 Baby Spayed: My rescue
3/11/00 Ozzie Foster for 1 week. 6 mos old and “shy”
3/11/00 Ruthie Pick up from Vet
3/18/00 Ozzie, Georgi, Sadie Return to Petco. Ozzie not ready per KittyKind
3/25/00 Ruthie Return to Petco
5/1/00 Adoption Package Drop off to KittyKind
5/6/00 No cage room for Kissy or Ruthie
5/13/00 Ozzie & 2 Kittens Return to Petco
7/00/00 Cats have scabs around ears & backs Call Vet re Leo & Chatzi
No cage space per Marlene
7/18/00 Gemma My rescue
No Cage Space
7/18/00 Ariel
7/18/00 Gnut Dermatitis
7/18/00 Rumble Kitten/Hold

8/26/00 Update
Passover; Sportshoes; Mushy; Gnut; Ariel; Rusty; Raskol; Hamlet; Honey; Echo; Blackie; Raven; Baby; Leo; Roman(a); Chatzi; Tracey; Gemma; Kittens (to Petco); Angelina / Rumble; Little Guy (Adopted); Ozzie; Kissy; Thomas; Ruthie; Willy; Luciano; Placido; Zoe;
8/27/00 Petco Give KittyKind Director Document for website. P/U bag of Iams? One bag?!!
9/1/00 P/U Kittens
9/2/00 Momma & Tiny Foster; Return Kittens
2 had eye infections
Bring back next week with red kitten
9/4/00 Director for KittyKind says I’m not a volunteer anymore I’m an adoption representative now
See xerox attachment for meds update
9/23/00 Bambi and 2 male kittens (Linus/Mel) Discarded at Petco
Upper Respiratory
10/25/00 Roman Senior Cat with diahhrea – turned out to be a very senior female
10/25/00 Mel Kitten: Test/vacc
11/25/00 Bambi / Mel Vaccinated
Took to Petco
Must bring home if not adopted per KittyKind
11/27/00 Frenchie Adopted
12/17/00 Bambi
Tsunami
Linus Return to Petco.
12/24/00 Buster Adopted
*****12/29/00 Sweetie
1. Told cat had seizures on 12/28/00
2. Was dehydrated
3. Vet gave fluids?
4. Cat is female
5. Cat is wobbly
6. No name given for cat
7. No age or other information given for cat
Told by KittyKind Director that she was a housecat surrendered by owner. Intake fee given to KK? Has vaccs & is spayed. Told to isolate her. I called KK Director and told her I have no place to isolate the cat. She said to “put her in your closet.” I argued that the cat is meowing repetitively and I would not do that, I said I didn’t want her to die in my closet. Finally, was told to “take her to your vet, we’ll reimburse you.”
Per my Vet cat has encephalitis and fever. It explains why she kept pressing her face into a towel: Pain. KittyKind Director, told my vet to “just give cat supportive care” because she could not locate (Board Member) who was the cat’s official caretaker. Awful event, my vet very angry over KittyKind’s protestations that cat should only be put on fluids and antibiotics.
A Blizzard was expected later that night. KittyKind Director claimed he just wanted to clear out his waiting room. I was with the cat and saw the time they gave her. This was definitely not the case. Very disappointed with KittyKind. She was euthanized at 7:15 pm on my authority. No reimbursement. With exception of veterinarian everyone acting as if I did something wrong.

This was just a portion of my volunteer days at KittyKind. Aren’t you supposed to feel good as a result of volunteering?

What an incredible opportunity!

 

 

What Everyone Else Has to Say

See who people have warnings out about. Did someone misrepresent, lie outright, treat you poorly? Express your situation (can be anonymous)
Read what everyone else has to say about everyone else. You’ll see you’re not the only one its been done to. Look out and see what’s out there. Put your own experience out there. Do your homework before dealing with certain groups.

 

 

 

I Want to Adopt a Cat.  What Should I Know?

First off, Judge for yourself. Someone who tells you the pet is healthy is not the way to go. One rescue group in Manhattan actually expects you to take the cat to the vet following adoption. Don’t let the adoption group minimize what you obviously see as a health problem. Don’t let THEM pick out the cat YOU want to adopt.

If you’re not careful you’ll end up having to take your newly adopted pet to the vet only to find out it has ear mites, intestinal parasites, skin fungus or even an upper respiratory infection.

Do your own inspection and be sure you take home medical files upon adoption.

If you’re looking at a cat or kitten and it’s **sneezing,** it’s time to check the nose. Is there mucous on the nose? This cat/kitten has an upper respiratory infection. A vet will recommend an antibiotic depending on what type of bacteria is causing the infection. Giving antibiotics without a vet exam is not the way to “treat” a cat.

Look at the **gums** too. If they are pale it means the cat is not getting enough oxygen or is anemic. If the gums are blue – this cat needs a vet ASAP because it is really low on oxygen and may have heart or other complications.

Look at the **ears**. Are they dirty? Does the cat shake its head alot? See if the swabbed ear comes up with gritty, black stuff that looks like coffee grinds. That is ear mites. It is treated for 2 weeks with a product by the vet and for 30 days with mineral oil.

Does the cat have **diahhrea**? It is not always due to change in diet. Diahhrea can be caused by parasites and must be diagnosed by a veterinarian. Diahhrea that smells extremely awful can be attributed to Coccidia a parasite that can kill a kitten within days. Another extremely awful smelling diahhrea is caused by Giardia. The cat loses weight and has projectile diahhrea everytime it eats. Cats with Diahhrea usually are also somewhat **dehydrated** because of the fluids they keep losing with the diahhrea. The vet may want to give the cat subcutaneous fluids. Some people recommend raw meat diets or tells you to give the cat rice. While you’re doing this the cat is just getting worse.

Look at the **eyes** and see if they are clear without mucous. Look at the **teeth** to see what condition they’re in. A cat with dirty teeth that are not cleaned by a vet can develope mouth infections that cannot be cured but need regular care for the rest of its life.

Be sure the cat has been checked for **fleas**. VERY important, and finally be sure to receive paperwork showing dates of deworming and vaccination. Be sure to get all medical files on your newly adopted pet. Be aware that some of the above conditions can be easily treated by a vet. However, if you adopt a cat and think it is healthy the vet visit never happens and the cat only suffers in silence until it’s health becomes seriously compromised.

Beware of Ringworm adopting a cat. If you are adopting a cat and it has lots of round, rough looking bald spots around the ears, eyes, neck and paws. Stop a minute. This could be due to a liver/kidney problem or it could be Ringworm. Ringworm can be treated. It is actually a fungus that attacks the cats hair and can spread over a good portion of the cats body. It is contagious to other cats and people can get it too. It can be treated with Athlete’s Food Cream or a lotion called Fungisan. I recently used an ointment of goldenseal and myrrh and the results were FAST. A vet can give the cat a pill and a skin ointment to help get rid of the problem. Ringworm is itchy and looks like hives on a person. Always wash your hands after handling a kitten or cat with RingWorm.

Always get medical records to take home with you, promises of getting them in the mail are not going to happen. Promises are made to be broken and repeated calls to get them can be ignored. Take the Medical Files home with you.

How Good is Your Word?  KittyKind’s is Not Reliable

 

If KittyKind promises medical care and follow for adopted Special Needs cats from them BE SURE TO GET IT ALL ON THEIR LETTERHEAD AND SIGNED TOO – getting it notarzied would not be a bad idea.

I fostered a cat that needed meds etc. actually received an email promising me vet care for the cat and 3 mos later the vet received a letter saying they would no longer pay for his vet care. The cat has one kidney and a compromised bladder.

See: http://mysite.verizon.net/vzeyfg4f/kittycatfosterpitfalls

 

 

Foster Homes Needed – Adoptions Treated the Same Way

Are you a big hearted person with a soft spot for the underdog?  In this case the under”dog” is the cat that needs a temporary home until a permanent one can be found. 

 

You really need to know all the facts about KittyKind in Manhattan.  They appear to care for these poor animals and will charm you (if you let them) into letting them use your home as a sanctuary.  Can you hold a cat for one week?  Can you extend your hospitality and hold the cat for two or more weeks?  Can you pay for the cat food and cat litter yourself?  If we pay, can you take them to your vet?

 

I bit the bait and ended up with a cat sanctuary and a huge vet bill over the course of 3 years.  Always told that I would be reimbursed in December of 2004, I ended up spending my benefit funds from the WTC disaster and a lot of my disability money on Vet bills for sick and dying KittyKind cats.  I was told what a wonderful person I was to volunteer cleaning cages, transport cats and medicate and hold them until “a cage opens up.” Once I attempted to return all the fosters to them and I was called “hateful”.  KittyKind claims to have given me “write off” letters.  What good is a write off letter if I don’t file taxes?  Hello?  I’m on disability since 9/11/01?! 

 

When Marlene Kess, previous Director,  was convicted of animal abuse and 200 or so dead carcasses were found on her property I realized that I was doing their rescues and they were doing what?  Under both Marlene Kess and Hilary Harris, Intake fees are charged for cats being surrendered to KittyKind, but if I was buying cat food and litter, they were already getting revenue for cats that they did not have to pay anything for.  They receive donations for cats in foster care but they don’t pay for food and litter.  The only people getting money for food and litter were the KittyKind Director and a few in her close circle.  After finding out that KittyKind has a six figure income though they claim to be broke, I finally began to take legal action and some support was provided.  Finally, I returned the cats to them 2 at a time.  These cats were supposed to be unadoptable but were quickly adopted when I stood my ground and returned them to Petco.  I was accused of abandoning cats at Petco.  What a joke! 

 

They wanted me to pay them in order to keep the last 5 cats that were feral and one has one kidney and special medical needs.  The Judge presiding over the trial nixed that idea and I ended up keeping the cats who I continue to care for and whose medical supplies I continue to buy without “Government Funding”. 

 

I point out the Government Funding part because as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization no one expects government funding.  KittyKind gets free food from manufacturers, free litter from Petco, an annual Petco Grant, Money from Intake fees, adoption fees, Maddie’s Fund via the Mayor’s Alliance, and other sources that they do not want the public to know about.

 

In Denial

How sad when KittyKind uses such poor people skills with the public they rely on for donations.

Recently, I received emails about how people are still being pressured to adopt specific cats and not the ones they wanted from KittyKind.

How sad when a child is told the kitten they held for over half and hour and hoped to take home is adopted out from under them to someone who just walked in and never spent time with the kitten.

How sad when children have to cry because mom can’t afford 2 cats. How sad when mom is pressured to adopt 2 to keep her child from crying.

How sad when after making the adoption the original kittens they wanted weren’t adopted anyway because at the last moment, a critical question was asked and the second set of people walked out empty handed also with a crying child.

HOW MUCH GOOD ARE YOU DOING IF PEOPLE WHO FOSTER KITTYKIND CATS CAN’T REACH YOU FOR MEDICATION THAT IS NOT VET PRESCRIBED (and cat not vet checked) and arrive to pick them up only to find NO ONE KNOWS ANYTHING ABOUT THE MEDS, the foster or the cat?

KittyKind is still trying to get their sick cats into the hands of good people and Seniors. Can’t believe they consider diabetic cats who also have cancer as not so hard to take care of, why don’t they keep them if it’s so manageable?

I was with KK for over 6 miserable years and they deserve to be exposed for what they have done to me; to other foster people who also had all the cats they could handle; and to vet techs who were overwhelmed and then not allowed to bring back cats for the same reasons I was given. These are all good people who should have just brought all the cats back to the store and walked away from KittyKind but probably felt doing so was an abandonment of an already miserable animal. When I tried to return all their cats to them they called me “hateful”. All of us I’m sure believed KittyKind’s story that they “just don’t have the money” that this is ultimately all about the cats.

By the way. Are they going to admit liability when they adopt out a cat as shy when it is really feral and when that feral cat attacks and seriously hurts the guileless adopter? A cat bite merits medical care because of infection that is generated by the cat’s saliva. This is a serious medical situation. I understand 2 people have already posted cat bite situations. So many more just don’t post.

KittyKind still thinks they are cat savers when they move an animal onto a home that they will then forget about

 

PERMANENT FOSTER CARE? OR FREE TO GOOD HOME?

How is one different from the other? Cats in renal failure and with other medical conditions have been abandoned in my home through to 2006 when I finally filed a lawsuit. Having never signed paperwork (trust – how stupid) I was not able to prove they were KK’s cats. Don’t do as I did – get everything in writing and signed don’t take verbal promises; they are made to be broken.

Originally I posted about:

Tiger is a cat that I fostered for KittyKind. They never had cage space for him. He is declawed and afraid of the other KittyKind cats that I have. The stress is not good for him, but there was never any place to put him. Tiger was taken in by KittyKind and an Intake fee was paid to KittyKind.

He was described as a “Special Needs Cat”. He was labeled Unadoptable. Tiger suddenly got crystals that blocked his bladder. I could not take him to the emergency room in Brooklyn, they only take cash or credit cards. They referred me to the Animal Medical Center. I made a few calls and could not reach anyone at KittyKind. I called a vet tech in Brooklyn who said he needed help ASAP or he could die within 24 hours. It could not be left for the next day when KittyKind’s vet opened.

Tiger went to the Animal Medical Center. He was in such bad shape they kept him for a day or two. He needed around the clock monitoring of antibiotics and intravenous fluids.

After much debate KittyKind started paying the bill and I continued receiving late notices from the Animal Medical Center until almost 7 months later it was paid in full.

KittyKind promised to pay for his vet costs, fluids and special diet if I would keep him and 3 months later sent a letter to my vet saying they would no longer pay for his meds etc. They never notified me – the letter was sent to my vet

 

Notice: Marlene Kess injects her poison into another rescue with KK in their name

---

Let’s not forget that Marlene Kess busted in 2005 for animal abuse moved from New Jersey into Brooklyn and set up shop again.

For someone who let so many cats die and decay in her back yard can anyone say there is any love in that act? She claims she did nothing wrong.

see:  http://ahscares.org/showarchive.asp?=129    She calls them liars too.

She is a criminal and like a criminal has no conscience, she just picks up and continues business as usual. She never lost a drop of sleep over the cats that were euthanized or were decaying in her own back yard in garbage bags!

She’s someone to look out for and not let time fade away the reality of her actions in 2005. How many times does she need to repeat her fiasco before she finally goes to jail? How many other rescue groups does she need to damage with her actions?  Does she think she’s above the law?  YES!

 

Get this information out!  If it’s flagged on Craiglist repost it!  It must stay up to warn the people who just want to adopt a cat of their choosing who is healthy.  These people deserve to be treated with respect and to be given the truth so that they can take proper care of the cat they adopt or foster.

 

 

911 Survivor Served Baloney on Lie

 

I’m a 911 Survivor. I used to do volunteer work with KittyKind to help me get through Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as soon as I was able to leave my apartment in October. 

 

I stopped doing that because they took advantage of me by sending me home with lots of sick cats, making promises to pay me back for vet bills and then denying that they ever made those promises or that I ever fostered for them!  

 

I need to get the word out to others who have been taken advantage of by this group and to inform people about fostering animals, the pitfalls of taking home anmals without written medical information, and to this end, I’m making available to them proper forms for fostering (clear written agreements) that will protect them so that they don’t end up losing their savings to corrupt “rescue” groups like I did. 

 

First and Most Importantly:  Don’t let anyone coerce you into taking any animals home until you get this form filled out by the rescue agency with their proper signatures.  Oral promises do not hold up in court. 

Get these forms at http://mysite.verizon.net/vzeyfg4f/kittycatfosterpitfalls

you can also read step by step what happened to me and tell me what your experiences were so that I can post them here.

Any messages left on Craigslist get flagged off by recruits of KittyKind.  This site will get your story out.

Be Well,

Josie

 

Hello world!

Welcome to my site.  I have another website that talks about my experience with KittyKind in a timeline kind of fashion.

I’d also like to update you with what other people write to me about their experiences.  You can see the way this group consistently mis treats people and that they do so in a consistent pattern.

See “the adoption of leo” on Google.

See http://mysite.verizon.net/vzeyfg4f/kittycatfosterpitfalls

see the similarities