Page 14 - Intra Muros Issue 2 February 2025

ESTATE NEWS

OUR OWN CAT WHISPERER, JEANNE TODD

By Kathy O’Connor

eanne Todd has left an indelible mark on Silver Lakes. Her
efforts, spanning several years, include launching the Silver
JLakes recycling programme, advocating the adoption of the
Social Responsibility Fund and showing unwavering dedication
to the welfare of Silver Lakes’ feline residents.

The Clubhouse cats
In the early 1990s, when Jeanne and her husband, Errol,
moved to Silver Lakes, about 90 cats lived near the Clubhouse.
Jeanne took swift action, arranging for 20 cats to be sterilised
and returned while ensuring the humane relocation of the
remaining 70. Her efforts led to the creation of an enclosed
area where the cats could live safely. Jeanne personally fed
them daily, funding their food, until the last cat passed away a
few years ago.

When new kittens and stray cats began appearing at the
Clubhouse again, Jeanne stepped in once more, supported
by a group of caring ladies who also champion the cause of
unsterilised and abandoned cats. Together, they implemented
the trap, neuter and return (TNR) approach.

To quote Jeanne: “Every pet owner is responsible for having
their pets sterilised. A cat, in its lifetime, can have up to 103 Today, Patches remains a cherished fixture at the HOA office, enjoying
kittens.” the freedom of her own cat flap and the affection of staff and residents
alike. Although she has slowed down with age, she remains the sweetest
Cats play an important role in the environment, including and gentlest cat in all of Silver Lakes.
controlling the rodent population.
Farewell, Jeanne
Patches, the Silver Lakes HOA office cat After 30 years, Jeanne has moved to George, leaving behind a community
Jeanne also played a pivotal role in the life Patches, the beloved forever enriched by her kindness. Jeanne, your contributions have made
office cat of the Silver Lakes HOA. Silver Lakes a better place for everyone. We wish you all the best in this
new chapter of your life.
In 2012, Patches arrived at the HOA office, seemingly in search
of a new home. With Jeanne’s assistance, food and an outdoor
kennel were provided and she arranged for Patches to be
sterilised – just in time, as it turned out. Three months after
Patches arrived, her owner came to the HOA office to claim her.
It was a sad day to see her go, but after just a week, guess who
was back.

Slowly, Patches won over the hearts of everyone she
encountered. She began spending more time inside the office
than outside, becoming an integral part of the HOA family.

Patches has had a few run-ins with other neighbourhood cats,
resulting in emergency trips to the vet. On one such occasion,
an abscess burst while Jeanne was visiting Patches over a
weekend, prompting Jeanne to take her to the vet immediately.

12 | INTRAMUROS FEBRUARY 2025