Our Companions


Our Companions Animal Rescue is a Connecticut based organization that promises to always do the right thing for animals, regardless of the challenge or cost.

Friday, December 27, 2013

Holiday Fun for Adopted Cats

"Theo" - Cuddling up to some holiday gifts

"Cherokee" - Are the cats toys supposed to be her gift or is it the wrapping paper?
 


Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Our Feral Cat Food Bank is Dangerously Low!

The weather outside is frightful and feral cats need our help! Thankfully Petcare Veterinary Services in West Hartford is hosting a Feral Cat Food Drive through January. Please spread the word about this important Food Drive. The cupboards are running very low and our dedicated Feral Cat Caregivers rely on these food donations to keep their colonies full and happy! For more information about our Sterile Feral program or on setting up your own Food Drive, e-mail our Helpline at: Helpline@ourcompanions.org Thank you in advance for your help!

Friday, November 22, 2013

Help CT Become the First State in the Country to say NO to Puppy Mills!

Thanks to several animal protection organizations including CT Votes for Animals, HSUS, ASPCA, CT Coalition Against Puppy Mills and Our Companions, CT has become a leader in proposing legislation that would ban the sale of commercially bred pets in CT pet shops.

And now a new organization has formed that is uniting all these groups and soliciting new organizations and businesses.

Introducing The CT Alliance for Humane Pet Shops. The CT Alliance for Humane Pet Shops is a network of animal welfare organizations and local businesses who are advocating for positive change in the pet shop industry.

Their primary goal is to establish state-level legislation to ensure that pet shops may only source their dogs and cats from rescues and shelters, instead of commercial breeders. Please support our humane pet shop campaign.

Explore the information on their website, become a member of the alliance and scroll down to learn more about how you can make a difference today! Click Here to Sign up and Learn More!

Friday, November 1, 2013


MARATHON ACCOMPLISHED! FUNDRAISING GOAL ACCOMPLISHED!

 

I just wanted to update everyone……………………..as some of you know I tore a tendon in my foot 3 weeks ago during training so I was pretty nervous about running the marathon injured. By the grace of God and all the “good vibes” sent my way Saturday morning, I was able to cross the finish line! It took me 40 minutes longer than last year when I was healthy but this year was not about time, instead it was about the journey for the animals.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH to all those that donated so generously to Our Companions to help me reach my fundraising goal. I can’t thank you enough for your support of this important organization and all that they do for the animals.

I have attached a picture of me at the finish with my finisher medal.

Thank you so very much!

Wendy

 

 

The time is near! My marathon for the animals of OC is exactly one week away! To those that have already donated, THANK YOU SO MUCH!!

 

For those who may have lost my letter in your inbox, I’m resending my initial request hoping this will remind you about Our Companions and the wonderful organization that it is. My goal is to raise $3,000 for the animals and right now I’m at  $2495. Any donation, no matter how small, helps!

 

Hope you have a fantastic weekend!

Wendy

 

 

Dear Family & Friends-

 

Last October 2012, I decided to run my first marathon. I ran it to prove to myself that I could do it. I’ve decided to run another marathon but this time for a cause greater than myself. I have decided to combine two of my passions in life, running and animals, to help the animals of Our Companions.

 

Our Companions Animal Rescue is a Connecticut based organization that is committed to doing the right thing for animals, regardless of the cost or challenge. What this means is that they go to extraordinary lengths to help animals in need today, while also working to prevent animals from becoming homeless tomorrow by addressing the root causes of pet homelessness.”

 

I volunteer once a week at Our Companions Animal Sanctuary in Ashford, CT, caring for and loving the animals in the cottage. There are two more cottages being built on the sanctuary grounds so it is exciting times because it means we will be able to save more animals!

 

My marathon is the Hartford Marathon October 12th, 2013, at 8:00am. I’m trying to raise $3,000 for this wonderful organization that I believe in and that I am extremely proud to say that I am a part of in their mission to save animals.

 

To donate, please click on my link below. This is a secure site and the money will go directly to Our Companions. If you are uncomfortable making an on-line donation you can also write a check and send it directly to Our Companions (34 Sanrico Dr., Manchester, CT 06042). Please make sure to write on the check that it is for “Wendy’s 26.2 for the Animals of OC” so we can keep track of my donations. You can also send it to me and I will make sure OC gets it (14 Westwood St. Manchester, CT 06040), please make all checks payable to “Our Companions.”

 


 

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

THE ANIMALS THANK YOU, TOO!

 

 

Wendy Davis

Trinity College

Women's Basketball Coach

Associate Professor of Physical Education

300 Summit Street

Hartford, CT 06106-3100

860.297.2069


 

“Small acts by millions of people can change the world.”  Marlene Bjornsrud

 

  

Thursday, October 31, 2013

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Recently rescued nursing momma cat has found sanctuary with us.  While she continues to be camera shy, her 5 week old kittens were pleased today to pose for photos!  Be prepared to fall in love.

Finch - boy
Flicker - girl
Lark - boy
Martin - boy
Phoebe - girl
Robin - girl
Sparrow - girl
Warbler - girl
 
 
Yes, they are ALL available for adoption and we are taking reservations.  Adoption screening required and they will be ready in a few weeks.   See our on-line application and begin the process today.  Yes, you can!


Tuesday, October 8, 2013

TJ and Rosie---- more on this PURR-FECT Pair!


TJ Finds True Love
 
 

 

TJ has recently found someone very special to help him continue his healing journey. An eight-month-old calico kitten named Rosie has become TJ’s new best friend and true love.

 
As soon as Rosie arrived at Our Companions Sanctuary, she was immediately taken by TJ's fun-loving personality and good looks. He reciprocated her feelings of affection, and the two cats have since become inseparable.  Rosie and TJ enjoy fun-filled afternoons playfully chasing one another around the Rescue Cottage. When playtime is over, TJ welcomes Rosie to join him for naptime, and lovingly wraps his paws around her and grooms her. Rosie's soft sweet purr tells everyone that she feels most comforted and loved in TJ's warm embrace.

 
TJ and Rosie have become so close that we have decided they must be adopted together, so that they may be able to continue this special friendship for the rest of their lives. If you are interested in adopting TJ and Rosie, please contact Julie at (860) 242-9999 ext. 302 or Julie@ourcompanions.org

 

Sunday, October 6, 2013

Sanctuary Construction Update


The leaves in Ashford are nearing peak and the beautify of Autumn is among us. With it, is the near completion of the construction of our two Sanctuary Canine Cottages.

 

Check out the latest video update:

Monday, September 16, 2013

Monday, August 26, 2013

Our Companions Volunteer, Wendy Davis' love for animals is fueling her passion to complete a marathon:  Read an open letter from Wendy below and join us in supporting her efforts to do the right thing for animals!


Dear Family, Friends, Team, Parents-

 

Last October 2012, I decided to run my first marathon. I ran it to prove to myself that I could do it. I’ve decided to run another marathon but this time for a cause greater than myself. I have decided to combine two of my passions in life, running and animals, to help the animals of Our Companions.

 

Our Companions Animal Rescue is a Connecticut based organization that is committed to doing the right thing for animals, regardless of the cost or challenge. What this means is that they go to extraordinary lengths to help animals in need today, while also working to prevent animals from becoming homeless tomorrow by addressing the root causes of pet homelessness.”

 

I volunteer once a week at Our Companions Animal Sanctuary in Ashford, CT, caring for and loving the animals in the cottage. There are two more cottages being built on the sanctuary grounds so it is exciting times because it means we will be able to save more animals!

 

My marathon is the Hartford Marathon October 12th, 2013, at 8:00am. I’m trying to raise $3,000 for this wonderful organization that I believe in and that I am extremely proud to say that I am a part of in their mission to save animals.

 

To donate, please click on my link below. This is a secure site and the money will go directly to Our Companions. If you are uncomfortable making an on-line donation you can also write a check and send it directly to Our Companions (34 Sanrico Dr., Manchester, CT 06042). Please make sure to write on the check that it is for “Wendy’s 26.2 for the Animals of OC” so we can keep track of my donations. You can also send it to me and I will make sure OC gets it (14 Westwood St. Manchester, CT 06040), please make all checks payable to “Our Companions.”

 


 

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

THE ANIMALS THANK YOU, TOO!

 

 

Wendy Davis

Trinity College

Women's Basketball Coach

Associate Professor of Physical Education

300 Summit Street

Hartford, CT 06106-3100

860.297.2069


 

“Small acts by millions of people can change the world.”  Marlene Bjornsrud

 

  

Gotta Love Blue

I don't know what is more beautiful, the blue siding on the new Canine Cottage at the Ashford Sanctuary or the amazing sky.

What do you think?

Either way, here's a photo and video update on the sanctaury construction. 





Thursday, August 22, 2013

Hungry Cats Need You!

Our Companion's Sterile Feral Program is looking for volutneers to help host food drives!


 
Feral Cat Food Drives Our Sterile Feral program provides food to caretakers who have successfully trap-neutered-returned their feral cats. We need volunteers to host food drives and donate the food so that it can be distributed to our Sterile Feral clients. Hosting a feral cat food drive is perfect for a school project, office promotion and for civic groups.
 
If you think you can help, please contact us at 860-242-9999 or email us at info@ourcompanions.org
 
Thanks in advance for your help!

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

New video footage of sanctuary construction!

It's beginning to look like the village we've been planning for over a decade! Love to hear those big machines do thier job!

Thursday, August 1, 2013

Dog Cottages are growing daily!  Celebrate the progess with us!



Monday, July 29, 2013

Bloomfield Hoarding Cats- Happy Update!


A few months back, we sent out a desperate plea for help with the cats rescued from a hoarding house in Bloomfield.  Thankfully all of the cats able to be adopted were rescued by a group effort from several shelters and rescuers, despite groups being filled to capacity.  Our Companions was able to take in two of the cats and we thought you would be interested to find out how they were doing!

Gracie (a gray female) has since been adopted. An instant favorite at our sanctuary, Gracie was a precious little angel who loved to sit in laps and give hugs to the volunteers. It was an inspiration to everyone to see how trusting she had remained after having experienced such difficult hardships in her early life, including the surgical removal of one eye. On the night that Gracie was adopted, a beautiful rainbow appeared across the sky. Gracie has begun a new life with her forever family,  and is already well-adjusted and happy in her new surroundings.

We received a letter from Gracie after she joined her new family.

"I am settling in very nicely in my new home.  I am busy exploring and looking out all of the windows!  I was introduced to my friend Catticus yesterday and after a few hisses we seem to be getting along quite well (even slept on the bed together for a short time– although at opposite ends).  I am hoping we will become good friends and I can leave my sanctuary room for good pretty soon.  I even let Mom clip my nails yesterday!"












Stewart (an orange/male) is now ready for his forever home too. When Stewart first arrived at Our Companions Sanctuary, he required medical attention due to many years of neglect. Now that his health has been restored, he is as happy as can be! Stewart has a sweet and mellow personality, and a loud and loving purr. He loves to be petted, and also enjoys the company of other cats. Looking into his peaceful eyes, you would never know that Stewart had previously lived in such a challenging environment. Stewart will surely provide a calming and unconditionally loving presence in his new home.
 
 
 
If you are interested in learning more about Stewart, please contact Julie at 860-242-9999 ext. 302 or Julie@ourcompanions.org
 

 


Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Construction of Phase 2 of the Ashford Sanctuary Continues!

This week the foundation has been poured. Soon, the framing will be built on our next two rescue cottages! Check out the new video and photos!

 





 

Thursday, June 20, 2013

They say a picture is worth a thousand words..........
TJ is feeling GREAT!  He has made friends amoung the other feline rescue cottage guests and enjoys interacting with them.  He continues to heal under the watchful eyes of the caregivers at the sanctuary. 

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Friday, June 7, 2013

Oreo and Dee's Video Debut


Oreo and Dee are some of the most playful and adorable little kitties!   If you haven't had a chance to meet them in person, you can check them out here:

http://youtu.be/GB470DXwrvg  

CLICK LINK TO VIEW VIDEO



Oreo and Dee: Domestic Short Hair, Cat; Manchester, CT

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

TJ's healing has progressed.  Our brave little kitten had his first post-surgery check up this past week.  We are thrilled to report that he is healing ahead of schedule and his jaw alignment has stayed perfect!  Our veterinarian gave permission for some supervised free time loose in the rescue cottage.  TJ has been enjoying interacting with our cats and running around playing just like a kitten should!
 

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Construction -Phase 2 has begun!!!

Construction has begun... Again!

 
 

During our ribbon cutting event last fall, we announced our intention to build two more rescue cottages by the end of 2013, representing “Phase-2” of our multi-year capital campaign for the Ashford sanctuary. 

We are happy to announce that on Wednesday, May 29th earth started moving and sanctuary construction has officially begun!

On behalf of everyone at Our Companions we want to thank the generous donors who allowed us to meet our fundraising goal. This $650,000 phase will allow us to build two more canine cottages and greatly expand our ability to change save lives at the sanctuary.
 We will keep you updated with news from the sanctuary.
 
Check out the video here!
 
 
 
 
 



Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Marvelous Memorial Day Weekend at the Sanctuary

There was time for relaxing:
 
Time for cuddling:
 
 
 
Time for fun:
 



Thank you to all the volunteers who spent time with the cats during the long weekend.  We appreciate your dedication to the sanctuary animals today and every day! 




Tuesday, May 28, 2013


Time is Running Out!
Please Speak for Chained Dogs in Connecticut

There are only 7 days left in this year's legislative session! 

Last week, anti-tethering legislation was passed in the House that would PROHIBIT tethering during official weather advisories and other adverse weather conditions. 

This will ensure that dogs who live their lives on the end of a chain MUST be unchained during severe weather: Tornado watches, Severe thunderstorm warnings, wind chill advisories, heat advisories, etc. 

It is a MONUMENTAL step toward breaking the chain for good!

We have worked so hard to come this far. Please help make sure this bill passes the Senate in the next 7 days!!!
 
Please ask your State Senator to support HB 5844, which would unchain dogs during severe conditions. Go to this page to find your State Senator: 
http://cga.ct.gov/asp/menu/CGAFindLeg.asp and make the phone call Tuesday or Wednesday of this week!

When you call, you will speak with an aide. Please simply ask that your Senator support HB 5844. Be sure to provide your address so they know you are a constituent, and thank them for the their time. That's it!

Thank you for your help on behalf of CT's chained dogs!

Saturday, May 25, 2013

Hand-knit kitty beds




Every beautiful cat and kitten that comes into the sanctuary leaves into an adoptive home with the gift of his or her very own "blankie".    Not only is this a "thank you" to the adopter for giving one of our sanctuary cats a loving, forever home, but it serves a very important purpose on the cat's behalf as well.  The blankie has the familiar scent of the kitties and sanctuary on it and helps the newly adopted kitty during his ride home in his carrier and also during his transition into his new life.  It also helps us say goodbye, knowing that a little piece of our hearts is going along with our beloved sanctuary cats. 

Imagine our joy, when Joan V. stopped by the sanctuary during our Saturday afternoon "open to the public" hours with a big bag full of amazing cat mats.   We let Hailey inspect them and she approved, before falling into a deep sleep on her favorite bed in the sanctuary kitchen.  Thank you Joan, for being such a kind and compassionate friend to the animals!

Saturday, May 18, 2013

 
TJ's first week here at the Sanctuary 
Has been filled with hurdles for him to overcome.  First was the pain and it was substantial.  We needed to add additional pain medications to keep him comfortable and resting.  He was able to eat and sleep and gain the strength he needed to feel better.  What a trooper! 

TJ has been meeting the other sanctuary guests through the safety screen of his bunkbed.  He appears curious and friendly toward other cats.  Good News!     He is happy and comfortable in his space and enjoys stretching out on his heated pad at the top of his bunk.  Rest and heal little friend!

Thursday, May 9, 2013

A Different Kind of Adoption


Our Companions is often known for having lots of cats and dogs available for adoption, but did you know we help with other types of pets as well? 

Albus and Nimbus were  a pair of doves in our re-homing progam, they had previously been "therapy" birds, but their owner could no longer keep them.  Helpline volunteer, Marlene Wilhelm, was able to find the perfect home for them.  Can you guess?

Albus and Nimbus were adopted by a couple, who plans to take them into nursing homes so they can continue their work as therapy birds.  If you have ever heard a dove coo, you know how soothing they can be.  Good luck A & N!