Happy, healthy pets in focus this month

WBOI focused on happy, health pets in October, honoring the deep bond we share.

Tony McCarrol, banquet manager at Parkview's Mirro Center has been adopted by a stray kitten he found along a country road. While he saved her life, she has brought new joy to his.

Yana Bourkova-Morunov, the associate concertmaster for the Fort Wayne Philharmonic, and her family recently adopted two bunnies found living as strays. Daughters Mira and Liza love helping take care of Oreo and Midnight. They remind everyone how many small pets are available at shelters for adoption.

WBOI News Director Rebecca Green and her 11-year-old Australian Cattle Dog have been doing search and rescue work for about 9 years. He is trained in human remains recovery and they volunteer for the Indiana Search and Response Team.

Vickie Sitz and her family have two sibling female Golden Doodles who keep the family healthy with daily walks around the neighborhood, parks and farmers' markets.

WBOI Board Chair Lynne Gilmore says the unconditional love she receives from her dog Asti keeps her smiling. She keeps Asti in top shape and the dog competes in shows.

WBOI Content Director Zach Bernard has tuxedo cat brothers Lord and Stanley, reflecting his love of hockey. He loves them and doesn't know where he'd be without them.

Julie Pressler is one of the owners of the Black Forest Cat Café. Her cat Gunther is pure joy, wanting belly rubs and talking to her whenever she walks into the room. He truly lifts her spirits whenever they're together.

WBOI host and reporter Tony Sandleben's dog Esther is his best bud. She doesn't love vet visits, but they are part of keeping her safe and healthy.

Linda Richter is a breed preservationist for Lhasa Apsos, a breed which originated in Tibetan monasteries. She works as a pet stylist, ensuring dogs' skin and coat are properly maintained for health.

Christopher Gagnon is the community cat coordinator for Humane Fort Wayne. He and his partner Jared share a home with a dog, Barnabas; housecats Mr. Gossman, Vivian and Finnegan; and community cats Fiddler and Longshanks.

He urges listeners to learn more about the community cat program at https://humanefw.org/

Kenny Bernier is the maintenance and transportation team member at Humane Fort Wayne. His adopted beagles—Nestle, Valrona and Lindor— bring so much joy to his family. He encourages everyone to adopt a pet from the local shelter or rescue.