American Faces #110 - A cool cat!

American Faces No. 110

I am always on the search for my next American Faces subject and my wife understands.   This particular one came to our back door to buy goat milk for a batch of kittens needing some extra help.  Shannon R. of Big Lake, MN raises and breeds Maine Coon cats. I have learned along the way, one American Face can sometimes turn into two; and this visit was one of those.  The second and truly American subject is Ozzy Pawsbourne, a magnificent example of the Maine Coon breed of cat.  His presence in the house is hard to miss.  He is a substantial 21 pounds of fur and rugged build that seems to resemble that of the Lynx that dwells in the woods of North America.  The Maine Coon cat is a highly loyal, large bodied cat that is almost dog-like in its behaviors and interactions with humans. 

When I was creating the images of  Shannon and Ozzy, several of his furry friends were around me demanding my time for play, an occasional scratch or even a pet of their glorious hair. By their trust in me, a stranger, I knew that Shannon loves her cats. It is also obvious in how she interacts with them.  The cats also have a deep affection for her. To see cats of this size and beauty is quite something.  To then know their roots are most likely founded right here in the U.S.A is also really cool.  While the Maine Coon’s roots might go back to some mother-land like Norway they are inherently American going all the way back to the 1600’s.  I guess you could say they aren’t all that different from many of us.

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As I spent time with Shannon, she spoke enthusiastically of the Maine Coon cats in her life and others. For  her it has provided a network of friends who also raise and show Maine Coons.  She has also seen how cats can calm people who deal with anxiety due to dementia.  

Shannon is also passionate about the future of the Maine Coon breed. Finding excellent homes for her kittens is a high priority for Shannon.  She understands their unique personalities and focuses on homes that will love and care for this special breed and also are passionate about their future whether as a well loved pet, a show animal or one used for breeding. Check out her webpage and her Facebook page Wicked Kunz

So to close this American Faces out I can easily say that cats, dogs and other pets can be incredible difference makers in the lives of people.   There is a lesson to be learned here.  Be quiet like a cat, be there for someone and don’t rush the moment.

Photos and story by: Nielsen Studios 

Editing by: Cristine Nielsen

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