Adopting a Pet: Bella and Macy
By Autumn, age 21, Massachusetts
Guest Contributor
Editor's Note: Autumn is a friend of mine - Stephanie Lynn.
My dad is an Animal Control Officer, which has brought some interesting, scary, and often rewarding situations to our table. A few months ago, my dad received a call from a woman walking her dog, that two kittens were wrapped in a blanket and buried in a snow bank close to our home. Our town doesn't have an animal shelter, so most of these animals wind up in our home until we find a suitable and permanent home for them. My family already has two cats and two dogs, all of whom were rescued in similar circumstances and have now become members of our family. We couldn't say no to two baby kittens!
My dad, who has thick blonde hair to his shoulders, rode home with one kitten asleep on his head under his knit winter hat, while the other rode quietly in his lap. The kittens were tired and freezing; however, they seemed alert enough to not need medical attention. My dad put together a comfortable bed made out of old clothes and blankets. With plenty of warm milk, dry food, and cold water, we simply let them sleep.
The next morning, they were awake and quite curious about who we were and where they were! They were so snuggly and playful. It didn't take long to discover that these were two sisters, one a black and white tuxedo cat, and the other a gray tiger-striped tabby! We couldn't imagine how anyone could have dumped these poor kittens in the snow.
It only took a few weeks before the kittens had grown to their normal size. They even befriended a 17 year old dog we have, and were often found snuggling together! Our plan was to adopt them out, but my family grew too attached. We have since named them Bella and Macy.
Bella is the tuxedo cat. She has bright yellow eyes and a black dot on her chin. She's very mellow and loves to snuggle! Sometimes, if she feels you aren't paying attention to her, shell meow until you pet her. Macy is the grey tabby cat, with stripes and spots similar to that of a cheetah. She's much more energetic, and is always sneaking into things and trying to play. At the end of the day, though, she's in your lap purring and showering you with kisses, ready to snuggle the night away.
You never really have to look far to find a pet! Before you begin searching pet stores, call your animal control officer. I know firsthand that my dad always makes sure the families who adopt our animals will take care of them and provide them with a happy, healthy home! Most animals come without adoption fees, too. It saves animals from terrible fates such as euthanasia or neglect. Macy and Bella are such happy sisters, and I couldn't picture a day without them!
