When I was 20, I gave up a cat named Simon because I was going to college and working full-time and had no time for him. He used to be all over me when I was home because he was so lonely. I gave him up to a better home with a friend who had 6 or 7 cats and had more time. Although I still believe I did what was right, I was young, and mixed up on my priorities. I couldn't help the way I was so I did what was best for Simon.
Now, over 20 years later, I have 4 cats and a dog. I've had pets for over 13 years and had to put my Chelsea down due to cancer. I am a much different person now. All of my cats came to me as strays, and I've fixed and found homes for a few other strays I couldn't keep. My former dog, Chelsea, was a fear biter (previously abused) who I couldn't take around many other people but yet I kept her for 13 years and always had her feelings uppermost in my mind. I now have another rescue dog, Dillon, who was seen being dumped out of a car. After 5 months, he still chases the cats but we've been to obedience classes, and continue to work on his "chasing" the cats. I plan my vacations around where I can take the dog, and who can watch the cats. I've walked my dogs twice a day unless there is a blizzard and have given up many evening activities so that I can spend time with my companions. I've spend a ton on vet care, and contributed to all area shelters whenever possible.
None of us is without fault. I still don't like who I was when I was young and selfish, but I am grateful that I learned from my experiences and became a more mature and responsible person. I hope I continue to become a better person as I get older and I hope friends and family will support me even when I'm wrong.
I guess my point is that we are who we are, and the only thing we can change is who we become. At 13, Cayter has already learned a lot about responsibility and committment. When she gets older, hopefully, she will be able to take it more seriously because of her experience.-----------Penny
Chelsea
Bookmarks