today I went to Liberty Animal Shelter as I always do each Saturday and Sunday for an hour or two. it was a big day today because it was Mutt Awareness day and a bake sale was going on. I arrived in the cattery and was there for maybe 10 minutes when the employee needed a break and a family came in that wanted a cat and I was asked to assist them. they wanted one that would get along with dogs, of which I had no idea. none of the identity cards have info specifically about dogs. so, they picked a couple that they wanted to see, but these particular cats weren't as gregarious as the one I had in mind. Archie has been one of my buddies that I spoil at the shelter. he's playful, warm, sweet, and everything a cat lover could want...and he's 3 years old. for some, that's a little too old, and even this family asked for one that was 6 months to 1 year old. but when I opened the cage and had them engage with Archie by picking him up, letting Archie sniff their hands, and letting members of the family hold him, they were sold. they could see how friendly and sweet he is. he rolled around in the cage, presenting his belly for rubbing. he had a toy that he played with, grasping in his paws every few minutes. in spite of his 3 years, he is still kittenish. finally, the family said they wanted him. the young son in particular was taken with him. I was so happy that a cat I had campaigned for was being adopted! it is so rewarding to help sheltered animals and I hope to champion for more and have the same success over and over. the feeling is immense, and I'm so grateful that I have the privilege to serve and help the community. it has changed everything in my life. here's to volunteering!
