Purrfect new stamps to get your claws into…
3 September 2014
The stamps, a special First Day Cover envelope and Booklet of stamps may be viewed and purchased at www.irishstamps.ie , at the GPO Dublin and selected Post Offices.
The Maine Coon is the largest domesticated breed of cat with a distinctive physical appearance and excellent hunting skills. The Burmese, with silky coats and big golden eyes are particularly good family and companion cats. The British Shorthair is a medium to large cat with a broad chest, muscular neck, strong jaws and a well developed muzzle. Persians are larger, heavy-boned cats whose thick coats can make them appear larger than their actual size.
Speaking on behalf of the Wicklow Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (WSPCA) Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow, Manager Anne Fitzpatrick welcomed the new stamps saying that Ireland has a great tradition of pet ownership but she urged existing and would-be cat and dog owners to act responsibly: “People are slowly but surely coming around to the idea of neutering, spaying and microchipping and we can’t stress the importance of this as we try to bring Ireland to the fore in Animal Welfare. We encourage members of the public to visit their local animal centre and adopt a family pet.”
Cats are popular pets, valued for their companionship and ability to hunt vermin and household pests. They have excellent night vision, acute hearing and outstanding balance. Founded in 1968, the Governing Council for the Cat Fancy of Ireland (GCCFI) is the voluntary body whose Council aims to protect the welfare of Cats and to promote the interests of Cat owners generally. It will celebrate its 25th Anniversary Supreme Cat Show for pedigree and non pedigree cats next year in Dublin when the public will have the opportunity to see many beautiful cats of all breeds. www.gccfi.com
An Post spokesperson said: “With four glamorous cats on An Post’s new 68c stamps, this set will appeal to both cat lovers and breeders alike – they are simply the cat’s pyjamas!”
Media contacts:
An Post - Anna McHugh: 086 2530697
WSPCA - Anne Fitzpatrick: Tel: (0404 44783) www.wspca.org
Governing Council of the Cat Fancy of Ireland(GCCFI) www.gccfi.com
Tel: Chairperson, Georgina Goodison (01) 280 9073
