Over the years, Pet Connection has been blessed with many wonderful volunteers. One particular volunteer, Dorothy Nesteruk, was responsible for nurturing dozens of little lives. She took in young kittens that for one reason or another didn’t have their natural mother to care for them. With the chopper in hand, she prepared their breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even bedtime snack. Fancy Feast, Kitten Chow, Science Diet, or milk replacer, whatever their little stomachs asked for, she provided. Along with the food came hugs and kisses. She would sit on the kitchen floor with these innocent creatures and give them what they longed for the most...LOVE. Never once did she turn away anyone. I remember one time in particular when Pet Connection got a call of 7 kittens found under a porch. With no room left at the shelter, we resorted to Dorothy, who was already fostering 4 kittens in her apartment. On this day, Dorothy was not home. I gathered these 7 babies and carefully set them up in her kitchen and left a note that read, "Please give us all the love you can. Our mom is gone and we really need your help." Imagine her coming home that day to this new responsibility! Most people would’ve been upset, but not Dorothy. She realized these animals needed her and she was determined to be there for them. Three weeks later, they were returned to the shelter and one by one, were adopted.

On April 29, 2001, Dorothy passed away. Not only did Pet Connection loose a foster home, we lost a friend. Her devotion and love will always be remembered. Although her body and heart may be buried, her work and love will remain. Her memory will serve as a constant reminder of why we do this type of work.

Embarking on a new form of rescue now, we feel confident that she is embracing all of those animals that have left this earth. For those of you who have ever lost a pet, let it comfort you to know there is someone out there who will care for them. Dorothy was an asset to the animal population, but most of all, she was my mom. Because of her love and devotion, I will continue to help as many animals as I can. After all, she would expect nothing less.

On behalf of Chin-Chin, Sue Ling, Max, Tortie, and all the other animals you helped....I thank you.

Love,
Valerie