I grew up on 20 acres in Bradenton, Florida and had the best childhood ever! With ponies, cows, chickens, rabbits, cats, and dogs, I learned responsibility and how to care for and love animals.
I led a military life, Marine Corps dependent for 17 years, which meant I left Florida and traveled the world every few years. Pets were not part of our family until the kids were old enough to learn responsibility. Kira decided at age 6 that it was time. That’s when Betsy and Bootsie joined our home in the late 1980’s.
In Memory of Mickey
Mickey was the perfect cat! He was my loyal companion and lived 18 happy years. 2001-2019
Our Beloved Mickey Sway Memorial
In Memory of Grace
Grace and Kira were a perfect match and needed each other at crucial times in both their lives. The love between them was evident and the memories made are for a lifetime. Grace set the bar high and there will never be another like her. She served as a pet therapy dog at the UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles as you will see in the Unbreakable Bond Series link below. Grace was the best rescue ever. 2009-2020
Wallis Annenberg PetSpace – The Unbreakable Bond Series – Kira and Grace
Professionally trained by Sue Krauss at Paw Paw Canine College, WV
In Memory of Kitty
Kitty was my sister’s cat who was both an indoor and outdoor kitty. She was a good companion and quite the hunter. 2008-2021
Nikki
Nikki is a beautiful calico cat. She definitely has a mind of her own and takes a little time to warm up to you. Nikki chose Mom at the shelter and the rest was history. Bonds had formed quickly with Mom and Cindy. Nikki lives in Florida.
Pippa
Pippa was in need of a new home when Kira took her in on Dec. 25, 2021. Thirteen months after losing Grace, she gave it a try and things have worked out ok. Pippa has been professionally trained by Jenny at Paw Paw Canine College, WV. Pippa is the happiest living creature on the planet. She brings so much joy to be so happy.
Lucy
Two and a half years after Mickey, losing my Mom in June 2022, and retiring in May 2022, I felt it was time to adopt a cat when Lucy entered our lives on July 4, 2022. Lucy is remarkably smart. She had been toilet trained and responded to commands of sit, shake, lay down, stay, roll over, sit pretty, and ‘out’ which meant she would come out from a place of hiding – I kid you not. Lucy is not a cuddler but she enjoys being in our company. She is quite vocal too at times.
Lucy has adapted comfortably in her new surroundings. She brings us so much joy and I believe she is equally as happy being with us too.
