Something is irking me! I cannot understand people sometimes. Everyday I see pasts on FB about stray cats and dogs or those that are free for the taking. I can barely stomach seeing the ads on t.v. or in the media. It’s heartbreaking. Now I understand that if your animal gets away that you naturally want to get the word out to help find them. I applaud you for your efforts and caring.
I’m talking about the ones who no longer want their cat or dog because they have become a burden to you. It is not the fault of the animal…it is yours!!! If you are not 100% ready to commit to the daily effort it takes to care for an animal then don’t get one. Do some research first to see what you are getting into. You may be thinking “they’re so cute” or “how hard can it be?” Well let me remind you that you still have to love them when they vomit at 2 am or constantly want to go in or out!
Easter is coming and I cringe at the thought of how many cute little bunnies or chicks will be given as gifts only to be set aside and ignored shortly thereafter. Not okay!! I have had many animals in my life and I confess that sometimes they were real pains in the butt. That didn’t mean they weren’t going to be taken care of. When we got animals we were committed to them. They became part of our family and were just like our kids. Sometimes people would say “just give them away” to which I would reply “would you give away your child?”
They made us laugh and at times, angry. When it was time to say goodbye we did our best to make sure it was peaceful for them and then cried for days. The grave markers in my backyard can attest to the love we had for our animals. I look at them often and I still cry. I am thankful that they were a part of my life and I know without a doubt that they felt loved.
So think about what you are doing. In the words of Bob Barker, “spay or neuter your pets.” Keep them safe and don’t abuse them. They have feelings and emotions too and deserve to be loved. Soapbox speech done!
Heart Strings 