Thank You Michael Jaeger of Catio Craftsman
“We are truly custom Catio specialists!” Michael says. “Whether it’s a magical space solely for cats or a dream ‘domain’ for people. In five years, we’ve created nearly 80 Catios, including a 3-level dollhouse, a 4-column, 6-foot tunnel on the side of church-turned-house and a 57-foot long ‘tunnel and condo’ Catio, including a 17’ span that never touches the ground.
“Various clients mentioned that they volunteered with Furry Friends and described the organization’s impact on cats in need and on our community. My wife Jo and I then reached out to volunteer at the shelter, but our availability and the shelter’s needs didn’t line up at that time. Then Chris Nash of Furry Friends approached me one 4th of July as I was gassing up the ‘Catty Wagon,’ calling out, ‘Are you the Catio guy?’ and asked about a possible donation to their annual fall auction. Since then, we’ve donated several Catio consultations, a couple of which have resulted in completed projects, and additional ‘kicker$ for kittie$,’ totaling over $1,000 donated to date.
“Becoming a Sponsor felt like a natural step for us to take, strengthening our commitment to and our ongoing support of Furry Friends’ critical work. My favorite part about being involved with Furry Friends is the ‘full circle’ nature of it. This includes supporting kitties in need, building Catios for clients who volunteer for them, the kittens and cats being saved by them, and then donating proceeds to Furry Friends and other rescue organizations ... lather, rinse, repeat ... lol. That’s how it should be, no?
“While my proudest moment about being involved with Furry Friends is still pending, it will be here soon: on the day we open up the shelter’s Catio expansion and relish the sight of multiple cats basking in the newly available sunlight! As to why I give back? I have the utmost respect for our volunteers and staff who care directly for the cats, particularly those who are sick, injured, abused and/or neglected. I recognize that I don’t have the emotional strength it takes to confront such suffering, especially when it’s the direct result of humans behaving badly. The next best thing I can do is channel my respect and admiration, add resources, and offer support to the wonderful souls doing this critical work. The two issues I’m particularly passionate about are, quite obviously, animal welfare and genuinely equal rights for all human beings!
“Between us, Jo and I have five adult children from previous marriages. Son Michael worked with the company for a short period, and is the only one, so far, with a Catio at his home in Longview. At our home, we do what we do to support our two rescue cats, Fred and Wilma, who also serve in the company as Chief Quality and Chief Felin-ancial Officers.
“Slalom water skiing remains a lifelong passion of mine along with soft-core biking and hiking. I also love catching fish, growing things in the garden, and cooking -- and sharing the bounty with friends, family and clients. While I’m certain I missed my calling as a comedian, I’ve written enough material for at least a few Open Mic Night sets. So... one of these days!”
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Furry Friends VIP Spotlights are compiled and written by Nomi Berger who is the bestselling author of seven novels, one work of non-fiction, two volumes of poetry, and hundreds of articles. She is a volunteer writer for Furry Friends in Vancouver, WA and also volunteers her writing skills to animal rescue groups in Canada and the USA.
