People & Their Pets VI
Tony & Cathy Blank
Cathy and Tony Blank are both native Miamians. They have grown up in the Magic City, all along attending school, pursuing their careers and living in Miami. Cathy is a proud mother and real estate executive. Tony is an involved father and business investor. Together they are active philanthropists and at the same time they are “hands on” involved in a number of organizations including Honey Shine Mentoring Program, United Cystic Fibrosis and Florida Poodle Rescue to mention a few. “We love spending time with our dogs as they give us alot of happiness”.
We were happy to learn that you adopted your dogs. What was it about them that caught your attention? When we adopted our Bichon Frise, her name was Priscilla. Since she was a gift to our young son, Spencer, he had the option to name her of his own choice. After looking through our pantry, he noticed his favorite cereal, Frosted Flakes and thus named her Frosty.
Gumbo, our recently rescued poodle, came to us from a New Orleans kill shelter with the help of Florida Poodle Rescue. Considering Gumbo’s heritage, we thought Gumbo was a great name.
Our chocolate lab, Chester’s proper name is the dignified Sir Chesterfield.
When did your interest in animals begin and how long have you been a dog person? Both of us grew up with lots of dogs in our houses. We have always loved the companionship of our pets.
If Frosty, Gumbo and Chester had the ability to speak what do you think that they would say?
Frosty would say, “I am the Queen. It’s all about me.”
Gumbo would say, “Why doesn’t the Queen want to play with me?” And “I went from the pound to a palace.”
Chester would proclaim “More food, please. I’ve got dinner on my mind.”
Tell us about your experience rescuing dogs? Our adopted dogs have all come from the great folks at Florida Poodle Rescue. They have a grassroots foster home network from Miami to Pensacola and they place dogs with loving families all around the country. That makes Florida Poodle Rescue the real angels. They have literally saved thousands of dogs from kill shelters and abandonments. Gumbo, for example, was hours away from being euthanized before Florida Poodle Rescue saved his life. Florida Poodle Rescue can be reached at www.FloridaPoodleRescue.org.
About Paws 4 You Rescue
Paws 4 You Rescue is a Miami-based non-profit 501(c)3, all volunteer, donor-subsidized animal rescue organization. Its top priority is to save animals from euthanasia at Miami-Dade Animal Services.
Rescued animals vary from being sick, injured, homeless and surrendered to simply lost. All animals are sterilized, vaccinated and ID micro-chipped to prevent future loss. Some require major surgery from a specialist to repair broken limbs while others may need additional rehabilitation time and specific medical care – ranging from respiratory illnesses and skin infections to cherry eyes and heartworm treatments.
Paws 4 You offers programs for adoption, fostering and senior citizens. Paws 4 You supports its mission by hosting numerous fundraising events throughout the year and through community donations.
Please visit www.paws4you.org for current information and additional details.
