Second Chance: Feline Fashion Forever

07 Mar Second Chance: Feline Fashion Forever

In last week’s Pet Column, one of the silly shelter dogs wrote all about his upcoming debut in Second Chance’s Furry Fashion Show happening this weekend, March 10, at the 4H Event Center in Ridgway. 

Well, this Putty Tat is here to throw down some feline fashionista finger-snapping facts. Cats do not care about fashion. We do, however, inspire some of the greatest fashion in history. So, although I will despise you for even thinking about dressing me in a Tutu, I will give you a little fashion advice for keeping it real from the catwalk to the sidewalk.

Feline-focused fashion statements go far beyond cute and kitschy T-shirts. Whether you are a fan of the feline or not there are all kinds of kitty-inspired clothing and accessories that are stylish and sophisticated.  It’s easy to add just a touch of kitty-worship to your wardrobe, or go all out and let the world know you love cats!

Cat ear hats and headbands are a fashion accessory seen everywhere. (Pink pussy hats aside.) Many are very subtle and elegant. Look for styles ranging from simple to delicate lace, fuzzy faux fur, and even totally blinged out. Wear them for a casual get together with friends or for a dressy evening out. The best part — One size fits all!

The vintage-inspired cat-frame eyewear will never go out of fashion – from eyeglasses to sunglasses these are the purrfect statement of interesting, independent, and feisty. And long, flowing, cat-themed scarves make the perfect fashion accessory. Matched with jeans or your fave little black dress these add sass and warmth to your day.

Which brings us to other kitty accessories – sleek and stylish cat jewelry. Not the cutesy little girl jewelry, but the hip and modern pieces designed for today’s cat lady. 

Or for a bolder statement, throw on one of the many varieties of cat-print dresses. Nothing says confident and chic like a little leopard print. Add a strategically placed, temporary kitty-themed tattoo…Purrrrrrrrr….

Of course cat-themed leg wear is everywhere. From sheer stockings or tights with cute kitty designs to leggings, knee socks, and anklets, these prints can range from subtle to outrageous. Have some fun – kitty up!  

And last but not least, put your paws into the perfect pair of cat shoes! Creepers, boots, heels, flats, and Mary Janes – there’s something for everyone – elegant and stylish fur sure!

Final purrls of wisdom? The dream of every Fashionista is to become a muse, but sometimes I’m like WTDP (What the Dog Poop) is she thinking!!!  So be kitty-inspired, but don’t overdo it. Like don’t wear the kitty dress, leggings, shoes, scarf and hats all at once…at least not every day…

My name is Nora. My friend Jewel and I are currently here at Second Chance Humane Society waiting for our new peeps to find us.  I am about six years old and although I was rather skittish when I first arrived here, I have quickly gained confidence and blossomed into a very mellow lap cat. My life goal is simple: let me cuddle on your lap. Besides, there is no better fashion statement than a little real fur on your clothes.

The Second Chance dog of the week is Buzy. 

KODAK Digital Still Camera

Buzy is only one year old and has spent most of his life tied to zip line in the back yard, which was not good for this high energy boy. Buzy LOVES people and is very eager to please. With plenty of attention, exercise and training Buzy will make a great forever dog.

Editor’s note: It’s no secret. The Telluride region is dog heaven. Well, pet heaven. Unless you are one of our furry friends who gets caught in the maw of neglect and abuse. Then heaven is on hold until Second Chance Humane Society comes to the rescue. Second Chance is the region’s nonprofit dedicated to saving animals’ lives and promoting responsible pet parenting and human-animal bond. In her weekly blog, executive director Kelly Goodin profiles at least one, generally two of the many animals now living at the no-kill shelter, Angel Ridge Shelter, a dog and a cat, hoping to find them loving permanent homes. The column is sponsored by Ted Hoff of Cottonwood Ranch & Kennel, who from time to time exercises his skills as a dog whisperer, partnering with Kelly and her staff to help train a particularly challenging animal.

Ted Hoff with Cabella & Wilbur

By the by, there is no better place to park your pup or get your pup (or adult dog) trained than Cottonwood whenever you head out of town (for locals) or are heading to town and staying somewhere that does not allow pets. Consider joining Ted’s Very Important Dog (VID) Club for added benies. (Details on Ted’s website.)

Second Chance Humane Society Animal Resource Center and Thrift Shop are both located in Ridgway, but service San Miguel, Ouray & Montrose Counties. Call the SCHS Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter, Volunteer, Feral Cat, or other Programs. View the shelter pets and services online: www.adoptmountainpets.org

Vetting the Vet: Dr. Michelle Dally, DVM, J.D. is Medical Director of Second Chance Humane Society. She also has a private practice, Dally Veterinary Medicine, 333 S. Elizabeth Street, Ridgway, Colorado. Her service area is  San Miguel Mesas, Placerville, Ridgway, Ouray, and Montrose. For more on Dr. Dally, go here.

Michelle & Wallowby