Of course as many others have said, the friendships I have found here are priceless beyond words. Although I have yet to meet any of them, I know that when the time comes we will get on brilliantly. I too thought that I would never become so involved in what I previously thought was just a place where people chat about pets, but now I just can't imagine not logging on every now and then!

I also think I've matured a lot whilst I've been here. When I first joined I hadn't grasped the concept that a forum was, generally, a formal place to discuss important matters alongside enjoying others' photos. I at first treated it much like an IM chat and didn't really post beyond a few sentences, most of which used 'shortened' English. Once I realised how foolish such posts looked alongside those of resident members, I showed my true colours and would never introduce myself in such a way again.

Plus I've been enlightened to the plight of shelter pets so much more than I previously knew. In fact, I think PT spurred on my intent to apply as a volunteer at my local shelter, which I really enjoy. I've learned a lot more about so called 'dangerous' (very loosely termed!) and 'designer' dogs, which were topics I had heard of but was ignorant to both sides of each story. In fact, not really being a doggie person as no-one in my family has ever owned a dog in my lifetime (family of non-animal lovers ) I've learnt so much more about them, and once I began work at the shelter knew a lot more about handling them than I would have done without PT's help.

So, thank you, PT. I always know whenever life treats me bad, I can come here and find compassion and solace.