Special to the Star-Herald
I have been so pleased as of late because I have had lots of wonderful compliments from people who read this article. It is nice to know that people are still reading, enjoying and learning from it.
I was asked in 2000 to write an article, and because of your support, nine years later, I am still writing. Is it easy each week to come up with something new and entertaining? Nope, but I try to set the record straight and educate where I can. This has been a wonderful opportunity for me to share with you the happenings of the Central Aroostook Humane Society.
As you may know, we had a huge influx of puppies last week, a very unusual event. I had no doubt we would find homes for all of the pups, but what about the older dogs who are waiting at the shelter for loving homes? Those are the dogs who really capture my heart, the dogs used to sleeping on a comfy couch or having a kid to play with; their worlds have been rocked and, for whatever unfortunate reason, they find themselves at the humane society, homeless. Many of the older dogs who come to our shelter are already housebroken and altered; they know how to be a good pet and are easy to integrate into a new home. I always remind people “all babies are cute” so please do not adopt a puppy or kitten because it is cute, this is a commitment for the rest of that animal’s life; be sure you are ready.
When I look around my own home, I notice my sweet brown dog Zoe; my baby girl, spoiled to the max. She is now 11 years old; that is as long as I have been married! I look at the changes in her as she has aged; face getting white, whiskers getting white and she has slowed down a bit. I really wish I could turn back time or that she would live forever. I guess that is what is it like when you make your pet more than a pet, but a part of your family. And anyone who says to me “she is just a dog” had better watch out! She is so much more than “just a dog,” she is my dog and I am her person, it is a beautiful relationship. I know what to expect from her and she knows what to expect from me. Honestly, it makes me a bit teary-eyed to think about life without her. But when I brought her into my life, I did so knowing I would outlive her, knowing that someday I would have to let her go, but I did so anyway. I did so knowing the hurt and heartache that would one day come. For now, I love her unconditionally and I try to ensure she has the best possible care that I can give her. I am in it for the long haul, through thick and thin!
As for right now, we have cages upon cages of cats needing homes; young cats, old cats, thin cats, fat cats, yellow cats and black cats — you name it, I bet we have it. They all need wonderful, loving homes and we work very hard to make that happen. We also have a lot of dogs available for adoption, so please stop by and visit us often.
You may have noticed our Web site is under construction; please be patient. If you want to look at the animals available for adoption, you can go to www.petfinder.com/shelters/ME14.html and check them out.
With the economy, we realize that times are tough, but won’t you open your heart and your home to one of our lovely animals?
They have so much to give but ask for so little in return.
The Central Aroostook Humane Society is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday, or give us a call at 764-3441.
Please have your pets spayed or neutered.
Photo courtesy of Christine Robinson
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION — This is Colby Ouellette and for his birthday he asked for donations for the shelter. It was his 10th birthday. He brought litter, cat food and a brush. He also wants to be a pet helper when he gets older.
Photo courtesy of Christine Robinson
LOCAL YOUTH HELP SHELTER — Emma and Deklan Curtis and Ryan Cochran, along with some friends not pictured — Khasen Lowe, Abby Shaw and Savanah Rodriguez — recently held a fund-raiser to benefit homeless pets. Setting up a lemonade stand, complete with brownies, ice cream and specials, the youngsters raised $33 and donated it to the Central Aroostook Humane Society.
Photo courtesy of Christine Robinson
The Blaine Free Baptist youth held a pet drive for the Central Aroostook Humane Society in Presque Isle. Pictured is Luke, on of the event’s participants. They raised $150 and also donated many items for the animals.
