Saving Figaro

We didn't have any idea where she came from. She just showed up at our door. A beautiful white coat, pretty green eyes and a cute little face. This cat was obviously a house cat as it tried to get in our door several times. We discovered where it came from. The neighbors stated "well it got in our car with us at the store and we brought it home" and obviously they did not want to take care of it. Between myself and another neighbor we were feeding it. But as the nights grew colder we felt sorry for our new found friend and took it in. Once we understood how it got it us it was obvious we had to take care of it. As my boyfriend stated" it's not the cat's fault she is here" It also become more obvious how she was dumped off at the supermarket, because no one wanted to take care of her. This indeed is the nicest cat I have met in a while. How could someone dump a pet this nice at the supermarket.? It is a true sign of the times. A tough economy is taking toll on the pet population and increasing the number of abandoned animals.

Pet shelters are seeing an increase of animals being brought to the shelters because people just can't afford to keep their pets. Many people are losing their homes and therefore forced to rent. Often landlords don't allow pets on their rental property. Some shelters are organizing food banks to distribute food to pet owners so that the pets can afford to stay with their families. A humane society in Arizona is starting a foster care program just so all of the abandoned animals will not have to be euthanized.

The pet population is overwhelming. Statistics say there are seven dogs or seven cats born to every human. One puppy and her offspring can produce as many as 67,000 puppies in six years. More sobering statistics claim that over 12 millionanimals are euthanized in shelters ever year.  Pets can also be costly so be sure you know what you are getting into when you make the decision to purchase a pet.  A lifetime total of caring for a dog is estimated to be over $20,000.  To get an animal neutered it costs around 100 dollars.  Ironically it costs 100 dollars to capture feed and euthanize an animal as well.  This cost is paid by the tax payers.  Hmm 100 dollars time 12 million is a lot.  Wouldn't it be cheaper in the long run just to spay or neuter your Pet?

So far it has been a rewarding experience, adding a pet to our home. My son who inadvertently pesters it to death just loves Figaro. Figaro was in fact named by my son (with a little influence from Pinocchio!) My son being so young has a hard time understanding the cat mentality. He doesn't understand why the cat doesn't just follow him around the house or or play football with him!  He doesn't understand the cat thinks she owns you!

Figaro has also been a great stress releiver to me as well. Petting an animal does wonders for your mood. Especaily if you are rewarded with purring!

This cat is already litter box trained and listens when you tell it No! it has a sweet disposition as well. Even when I gave it bath, Yes a real water bath, it only fussed a little. Next trip is to the vet. Hopefully there won't be anything seriously wrong with this kitty. She is basically fur and bones at this point. She is so light that when she jumps up n me when I am laying down, I barely feel her.

If you are experiencing tough times or thinking about giving up your pet, call the Humane society first to see if there is any help available.

If you are thinking about a getting a pet for the holidays or rescuing an abandoned animal, make sure it is a commitment you and your family can handle. So many times I have seen people adopt animals in the supermarket parking lot, only to give it away or neglect it a few months later. I remember a few years back the 101 dalmatians movie came out. then everyone had to have a dalmatian. Once people figured out the Dalmatian species were in general mean dogs, they were left for strays.  Deciding to adopt a pet is almost like having a child.  Please be a responsible pet owner if you choose to be a pet owner at all.

If you do chose to make a pet a part of your family, then talk to your local Humane Society to see about adopting a shelter animal to rescue a pet. ( see link below) They can direct ou to dog rescue shelters or cat rescue shelters in your area.

I myself wasn't looking for a pet when we found Figaro. (or was it she found us?) But I am glad I did. Just her presence offers a lot to out family. Just remember if you are looking for pet.. your Figaro may be out there!