jay_moose

I wrote an e-mail to my boss at Last Hope Animal Rescue. Re: Working with the cats and whatnot. I just went online to check when i'd be working today, and this came out.

Bonnie-

We've spoken in the past about me possibly 'doing some time' at the dog center, and even though that didn't exactly pan out, i have absolutely no complaints whatsoever. I love being teased by my family for becoming a cat-person...being tempted to grab toys/fancy feast for the cats, and even having momentary confusion when i pick my younger dog, Charlie, up and don't hear/feel him purr.

I've never been this committed to something in my life...something i've wanted to give 110% to. Commitment phobic, maybe? I don't know. But thank you for giving me the chance to work with the cats.

I've always had a rapport with animals, but working with animals that have needed more 'hands on' or 'magic touch' as you call it has done wonders for me. I've become more confident around people because at Last Hope, i've learned how to exercise my judgement and learn when 'no' is appropriate for 'lookers'.

I've learned more patience. I have no trouble sitting for a few minutes with my hand out to a frightened cat.

Responsibility. That's a big one. Especially when i'm alone at Last Hope, i'm responsible for each cat. That they are fed and comfortable and socialized, but also able to keep an eye out for anything that seems 'off'...physically or otherwise. Mom would probably note that I do the garbage better at the shelter than at home.

I love when people assume i've had cats...or ask me important questions about them. It gives me a sense that i've done something right. when terms like 'Feline Leukemia' and 'AIDS negative' come out of my mouth to prospective adopters and i know what i'm talking about.

When a cat/kitten is adopted and i remember being involved with the interview, there's a part of me that feels pride in myself.

The feeling of being part of a team. When i was given my 25 Years of Last Hope shirt, it was almost like a uniform to me.

As for business? Business is booming. I can watch my neighbor's cat, be on the computer, then have the cat sit on the keyboard and think, "So that's what everyone goes on about." When my neighbor recommends me to her friend to watch her cats, and the woman tells me she has two cats, but one nobody ever sees as she hides under the bed but 'Believe me..i DO have two cats...' and i go there and i'm greeted by not one, but two cats.

Mom comes by Petsmart more often, which i think is suicide to her allergies, just to see how things are going. She doesn't complain about the allergies...even stands at the door and watches me with the cats. I think Puma even senses a bit of (unnecessary) guilt for her allergies. If he's out with me or a prospective adopter and mom comes by, he comes to me, sits at my feet, and just stares up at her.

Anyway, before i ramble on anymore. Thank you for everything. Thank you for the opportunity, and the sense of being involved in something, to truly care about a cause such as this. I've been working with you at Petsmart for almost a year, and it hasn't even felt like it. It just feels natural.

It's working at Petsmart that actually makes the move to Arizona harder. I may not have many friends or much to hold me back here, but this shelter has become such a part of me.

I just wanted to let you know, and thank you again.

Always,

Lauren

(PS: on a different note...hence the Subject of the email...my family has had me inquire about a dog over at the Center, Pugsley. Mom wants more information, and demands to know why Pugsely hasn't been snatched up. ^^. Thanks again)