Pets Enrich Our Lives
There are studies that say that pet owners on average, live longer than non-pet owners. I guess you can’t argue with the numbers, but regardless of that, I’m a firm believer that whether or not pets add years to your life, they most certainly add joy and love!
Finding your pet, or your pet finding you, is a highly personal journey. You may spend hours researching the perfect breed of dog or cat (or horse or lizard!). Then you may spend more hours finding the perfect breeder, possibly having that animal shipped from another state or country; and this is right for many people. But I’m also an advocate for pet adoption. Unfortunately there are too many unwanted pets in our country but on a bright note, there has been a surge in animal rescue organizations and no-kill adoption shelters.
If you find yourself longing for a cute little kitty, or pup, this is the perfect time of year to begin your rescue efforts.
Maybe you don’t want the unique challenges that come with raising a pet from toddler-hood, and if that’s the case, there are a number of organizations that specialize in placing mid-life or senior animals with the perfect owners.
I adopted Mr. Bud in November of 2017, within weeks, he became extremely ill and I didn’t think he was going to make it. I took him to Cornell University Hospital for Animals, and they were able to save this precious little kitten.
I am happy to report he is now a healthy cat approaching 2 years old and as you can see, spends most of his time “helping” me work, when he’s not trying to enlist the much older Claudette into play time!
Remember, kitties are targets for busy roadways and wild animals, so if you take them outside, it's best to get them used to a leash!
You can begin your search with your local shelter, humane society or chapter of ASPCA. You will literally be saving the animal’s life and bringing laughter, snuggles, and unconditional love to yours!
Some organizations to help you get started:
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals:
The Humane Society of the United States:
https://www.humanesociety.org/
Best Friends Animal Society:
FLAG Pets:
https://www.flagpets.com/organizations-specialized-in-animal-adoptions/
