VILLAGE PET PAGES
A Year in Review
By Joy & Brian Pape
Banksy enjoyed watching the snow through his window in winter and the birds coming back in spring! He loved Pride Parade revelers passing by to say hi. His favorite was watching the Village transform for Halloween. Banksy dressed as a cowboy and said ‘howdy’ to all. He’s looking forward to the Christmas decorations and lights as the year wraps up. Photo courtesy of Shelby Porter.
Wayland and Ja’mie continue to entertain. Each has his own favorite toy: Ja’mie’s fish taco (scented with catnip) and Wayland’s “I’m kind of a big dill” pickle (loaded with catnip). Ja’mie continues to be the life of the party, greeting — and sitting on the laps of guests. Wayland is more interested in monitoring bird or critter activity out the window. As the colder weather sets in, they’re happiest snuggling on the couch, or curled up next to the heater. Photo courtesy of John.
Mateo, the long-legged, curly-haired maestro is constantly spotted crisscrossing our community, together with his architect-companion, Anita Brandt. Mateo drops by the Crosby Street, Chelsea and Soho renovation projects to review progress on parapets, facades and cornices. Even this work-obsessed poodle needs to schedule moments of rejuvenation. Mateo still carves out time for a daily sniff-and-frolic with his tight posse of street buddies. Photo courtesy of Anita Brandt.
Lola is becoming sweeter and more loving with age. She was adopted in 2010 and is now at least 16 years old. She’s also still as beautiful as ever and looks forward to her daily brushing. Lola also loves her toy mouse–and the newspaper. Whenever the newspaper is being read, she is sure arrive to upstage any article or headline, making sure the reader takes notice of her! Photo courtesy of Kelly Craig.
Tico has enjoyed roaming his neighborhood and making new friends. His scavenger tendencies landed him in the doggie hospital for a few days with a serious intestinal inflammation. Tico loves to leave the city for the Connecticut shoreline. He doesn’t hesitate to dive right into the water– swimming furiously and barking as he tries to figure out how to play in the Sound. He also perfected his Frisbee-catching skills. Photos courtesy of Howard Steinberg.
In May, Raisin was a very timid feral trying to find her way and appreciative of every little gesture of kindness. In a role reversal, Raisin is now the boss especially when it comes to meal time. She makes it clear that it is not an ideal situation when her circadian rhythms have been disrupted and knows how to give that look of disapproval. Yet, Raisin is really a lovely kitty that feels safe and secure enough to be demanding while her family showers her with love and adoration. Photo courtesy of Hellen Osgood.
Cinnamon and Gnocchi are loving this crisp weather! Now that it’s gifting season, they are also loving all the packing materials and boxes that get gifted to them as scratch toys and nesting materials. So far they approve of the new couch in the apartment but have reserved judgement on the new table. In December they’ll be jetting out to Seattle to see the grandparents. In the new year, Cinnamon and Gnocchi are resolved to continue being adorable and eating whatever lettuce happens to be on sale. Photo courtesy of Neal.
This year, Gracie and Coco have been delightful companions. Gracie continues to charm with her affectionate and playful nature, while Coco’s independent yet curious personality shines through. Together, they’ve brought joy, comfort, and plenty of entertainment with their antics. Their bond seems stronger than ever, making them an inseparable part of the family. Photo courtesy of Nisha Melvani.
Maggio has been living his best life with monthly trips to the mountains and the beach, but continues to thrive in the bustling heart of the West Village. One of his favorite things to do is birdwatch. He can often be found sitting calmly on the benches to watch geese by the water. Surprisingly this fall, Maggio appointed himself to the role of guarding elephants, showcasing his protective instincts and unwavering vigilance. He didn’t quite understand when they were gone one day and waits for their return. Photo courtesy of Maggio’s pet parent.
September — Button & Stretch
Since September, Button (above) had a health scare. She tested positive for mycoplasma (akin to walking pneumonia). With antibiotics, she’s now doing great, eating four meals a day and putting back the weight. Unfortunately, Stretch (below) is gaining weight too. But all has returned to normal with Button becoming her old social self and Stretch charmingly using his one brain cell as best he can. Please remember, ADOPT, DON’T SHOP. A rescue animal pays you back in unconditional love the rest of their lives. Photos courtesy of Jenny Glasgow.
Joy Pape, FNP-C, CDCES, CFCN is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Diabetes Care and Education Specialist and Foot Care Nurse who specializes in Weight Management, Obesity and/or Diabetes and holistic care. She practices at Weill Cornell and has a private practice in the Village.
