Homes for all

Can't you just feel the softness of the fur, the familiar touch of the whiskers, the sound of the purr.

The calmness of the presence of the cat 

i wish from the bottom of my heart for a loving home for all homeless cats the world-over.

Christmas always leaves me thinking of the homeless cats and dogs at our many shelters. I look at our 5 senior cats that were all rescued and our Shetland Sheepdog, Kane, another rescue and I think of the others that sit in cages over the holidays with little attention and no home of their own. In the past, I volunteered for many different rescues and during the holidays I knew that the staff would drop in to feed and check on the animals but they needed to be home with their families so there was no EXTRA time spent with the animals, just what was necessary. We were all celebrating and enjoying each other while they sat in their cages with even less attention and staff around them than usual. I couldn't get my mind off them.And then there are the cats outside, the ferals that are now facing another winter.All these animals need our prayers.  

Oh, what unhappy twist of fate

Has brought you homeless to my gate?

The gate where once another stood

To beg for shelter, warmth and food

For from that day I ceased to be

The master of my destiny

While he, with purr and velvet paw

Became within my house the law

He scratched the furniture and shed

And claimed the middle of my bed

He ruled in confidence and pride

And broke my heart the day he died

So if you really think, oh Cat,

I'd willingly relive all that

Because you come forlorn and thin

Well, don't just stand there......come on in.

If you have an hour to spare this Christmas, remember the cats and dogs that are waiting for a home at your local shelter and drop in to give them a little attention and perhaps a new toy for Christmas. I know it is hard to do this and then walk away but that time spent with them may give it the hope it needs to wait another day for a new home. They need attention every day and your visit will be appreciated not only by the animals but by the shelter staff that are over-worked and sometimes does not have time to pet each one. Some shelters have 'cat rooms' where you can play with the cats and fuss them up. Just do it and you will feel that you made THAT DAY more special for these lovely cats. Merry Christmas!

hugs, Deb