Pets

I grew up with pets. Our children grew up with pets. But when
the children left home to do their thing, we didn't bother with
more pets. We enjoyed our "freedom". After we retired, we
stated unequivocally - "no more pets".

Then we inherited "THE CAT".


Why is it the when family members can't care
for a pet they turned to their parents?

Okay, so now we have "THE CAT".

And, what a change he has made.
We no longer think about taking long trips.
We can't take "THE CAT" so we don't go.
Overnight we can manage but nothing longer than that.

Why? You ask.

Because we don't want to leave the beast for more than overnight.
The animal provides entertainment. He's something to be concerned
about; as a friend said, he's something to make getting up every
morning a necessity. He has become an integral part of our lives.
He does entertain us. He loves to play,(Yes this is a cat) His
favorite game is playing catch. We throw one of his stuffed mice
and he goes after it, then brings it back to be thrown again.
He also demands attention, rubbing up against us, meowing up a storm.
He's an excellent alarm clock, arriving at the bedroom door meowing
his head off at 5:30 every morning.

He is of course, like most cats, very independent. Occasionally,
he'll relent and climb into your lap for more rubs. However,
it's always on his time.

When I was in rehab after the knee surgery, the cutest little scotch
terrier arrived and he skipped around greeting some of the patients.
I couldn't believe it. A dog in a hospital? I commented that perhaps
my husband could bring "The Cat" in to see me.

The nurse asked, her expression sober, "Is he certified?"

I asked a friend who has dogs and she explained that some well
behaved dogs were being used as therapy. I don't doubt it.
"The Cat" has made a difference for us.

Not everyone likes cats, but those who do should have one. If cats are not
your thing, then a dog might be the pet for you. Despite the "inheritance"
we are delighted with "The Cat". He has added to our lives.

Allison
Watch for "Simon Brides" from Wings Press,
coming May of this year. Visit Allison
at www.allisonknight.com for more information