Be a Volunteer Walker for the NHSPCA - See adoptable pet dogs' and cats' profiles

Earlier this month it was A Kitty Shower. The place was jumping; the cries were ringing: 'Oh, Mommy, puleeese?' A sort of chubby youngster (human) walked out with a definitely chubby youngster (rabbit) - and couldn't give enough thanks to his Mom. Racking up points, he was.

Enough of history; let's move on to the present. Some of the cats that were there for the Kitty Shower are still living at the shelter. It's not that they're less than adorable, it's that the shelter has so many cats and they keep coming in.

Some are perky and quick. Some evidence an overzealous feeder-home, like Snowy, an eleven year old spayed female, who would be the purrrrfect companion for a less-than energetic owner who would be happy just talking to her, stroking behind her ear and listening to a contented 'mmmmmmm.'

And then there's Gwen. At first, Gwen couldn't be bothered turning around to have her portrait taken, but a few 'clicking' noises in her direction got her attention. Finally that gentle rub behind the ear that all cats seem to love, persuaded her to turn, put her nose in the air, and produce the most sublimely satisfied grin ever seen.

At that point, several school children came through the door to 'Cat Condos' - time to move out of the way and go visit the dogs.

Now the dogs are a bit different. While the 'Cat Condos' were blissfully quiet, the dog kennels were filled with raucous welcomes; no growls or snarls, just 'come talk to me,' 'give me a nibble' (they have small buckets of treats hanging on the fencing.)

Our earlier cover dog Sandy is still at the shelter. Apparently she is quite shy, so her apartment is a bit removed from the general canine public (in a quieter corner, but in view of all the action.) She is an 8 year old spayed terrier mix, perhaps a great greatneice of Little Orphan Annie's Sandy?

You've seen Holland (featured headliner). He was having his regular walk by Volunteer Jim Stitt from Brentwood, about ten miles west of Stratham. Jim loves all animals, so he comes here a couple of times a week to see that an outdoor jaunt is provided for the dogs' physical and mental well-being. Pretty healthy for the walker too.

Now for a walk through the kennels. Luke, a Jack Russell Terrier Mix, neutered male, 7 years old was going through his wiggle act, not barking, just excited to be noticed.That done, he just lay down and shot a peek every now and then.

Movng right along, Tyson was next. He's a handsome 9 month old, neutered Pitbull Terrier with a cocked right ear. The folks at the shelter describe Tyler as a 'happy go lucky goofy guy with lots of energy! He is a natural at agility.'

And Bosley...a handsome boy. The shelter's take on Bosley: 'Beagle Mix, neutered male, 1 year old. Not recommended with children under the age of 6, has been good with some dogs (he is very cautious of and might be overwhelmed by a hyper active dog), and seems afraid of cats. Bosley is here because he was transferred from an overcrowded shelter. He can be shy at first, but does warm up very quickly!'

The shelter is very frank about the dogs' and cats' temperaments, their quirks, and their foibles...just like people, eh?

Stop by the shelter on NH 108 (Portsmouth Avenue) in Stratham and catch the excitement yourself.

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