I have been working in a veterinary clinic for over ten years, and I have rescued several animals and brought them into my family. Five cats, two rats, two guinea pigs, three dogs and counting have all found their way into my heart and home.
My first encounter with a rescue was in the form of a very handsome 18-year-old Siamese cat we called Mister Man. Mister Man tugged at my heart from the first moment I saw him. He was a laid back old soul who’s owner, unfortunately, was going into a nursing home. She could not take him with her and had no family to care for him. I asked if we could try and find a retirement home for this sweet boy to live out his remaining days and she was delighted and relieved to let us do so. It was just a split second decision, and Mister was on his way home with me. It didn’t take long for him to win the heart of my teen daughter and my older dog Missy. They became fast friends, and Mister meshed with our little family very quickly.
Shortly after we brought him home, we found that Mister was in early stage renal failure. However, we were determined to keep him happy as long as we could. Mister Man was a wonderful boy that we were lucky enough to spend two wonderful, rewarding years with. My daughter and I were grateful for every day that we spend with Mister Man. My only regret was that we didn’t know him sooner.
Another of my sweet rescues was my little Ani. Ani is a little dog who came into our lives at the age of 7. Ani was going to be signed over to a local rescue organization, she was such a sweet little girl, and there was no doubt that a wonderful home would be easy to find. I decided to bring her home just for the evening and would bring her back the next morning. That was six years ago! Ani is now 13 years old and is a sweet, loveable little girl. Not a day goes that we don’t feel grateful for having her in our lives.
We have three rescue cats. Two of my girls Momma and Rue came from a TNR (trap, neuter, release) volunteer initiative. Momma was left in a wooded area while pregnant and had her kittens outside. She was a very friendly cat and was not feral. I decided it would be best to take her and her kitten home to blend in with our growing fur family. Several months later I brought home another little kitten in need of a home. Right now, our home is filled with dogs and cats who, for one reason or another, needed a place to call home.
It truly does the heart good to open your home and your heart to rescue an animal! I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Written by: Wendy Carew, Practice Manager
