Johnstown Relationships- Love of animals
I have written about unconditional love in the past, but that was between human beings, this form of unconditional love is between humans and their pets. If you have never had a beloved pet, then I am sorry. Pet owners will know what I am talking about. Animal lovers will also know the special meaning an animal can have on your life. Whatever kind of animal/pet you care about, they bring a new meaning to your daily experiences.
In my life I have only gone a few years without a pet. As a child we had a German Shepherd named Candy. She was an outdoor dog because of her size. I don’t remember much about her, but I do know she used to runaway to the neighbors down the street and my mom usually had me `watch her’ even though I was young and small compared to a Very Large dog determined to find friends. It was a very sad day when mom and I returned home from the store, we called to Candy because we had a treat for her. We found her at the back of her Kennel; she swallowed a bone the wrong way and choked to death. My dad buried her by the woods in the backyard area.
I got my first cat Louise Ginger in the 80’s, she was a beautiful calico. She loved table food, going outside, and sleeping with me at night. She was my cuddle kitty! When I was away, she became very sick and the vet said she was full of cancer. I didn’t find out about her death until I was in the car on my way back home from the airport. My parents buried Louise under her favorite tree in the backyard.
My third pet came many years later in the form of Misty Lou, a gorgeous tuxedo cat. Misty is my new cuddle kitty, hates to be alone, loves to be petted and very talkative. She is now close to 15 years old. Two years ago I got Misty a baby. I felt horrible leaving Misty alone all the time when I was working. So I thought she would be great with a kitten. I got Athena Rae, white calico, and brought her tiny self home. Misty did not like the newest addition. It took a long time for Misty to accept Athena into our family.
I moved back home two years ago and my parents have a cat Katie Ann, tortoise calico. It took forever for all three to get along. We still get hissing and growling but overall they have become friends and caring sisters. My pets have always brought love and entertainment to my life.
I have talked to clients who had pets and discussed the importance of animal love. It is difficult to be depressed, sad, angry or anxious with an animal around. Never under-estimate the unconditional love your pet gives you. They are your constant companions, your secret keepers, and your sounding board for problems or ideas. Pets can add years to your life! They will give you joy, laughter, and activity. I promise you will never be bored or alone with a loving animal in your life.
Now, there are some people who mistreat animals or hoard them. I cannot explain some of that behavior. Animal hoarding is a disease of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. They believe in their hearts they are helping and caring for the animals. I cannot explain people who are cruel and abusive to animals. I love the show Animal Cops, but can no longer watch it due to the cruel treatment. If you truly love and care for animals, then you understand my position.
People can have loving relationships with their pets. If you don’t believe me, simply ask someone you know that has lost a valued pet. Losing two previous pets of my own, I cannot say how I would handle Misty and Athena dying. Like people, animals have feelings, thoughts, and personalities. Never underestimate the power of a loving relationship between human and pet.
Share your life, if possible, with a needy and deserving animal. Visit your local shelter and give a forever home! They will add more to your life than you might believe!
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