Disposable

It's true that this blog is supposed to focus on Morris and his recovery. But it's also a way to talk about some of the things that go on in rescue land. Don't worry, I won't bombard you with graphic horror stories. Today's post is more to talk about a shift in the way some people view their "pets". I recently had someone return a former foster cat because after two and a half years, she developed allergies to the cat. In speaking with the woman, she revealed that in the time she had the cat, she hadn't taken her to vet at all in the time she had the cat. The kitty had been moved several times, was eliminating inappropriately outside the litterbox and was shy. Additionally, the cat had not been spayed and oh by the way, she was moving to NY soon and how soon can we take the kitty? But, oh, she was going to be so heartbroken to give up her kitty. The woman's tone throughout the whole thing was so nonchalant, it was clear that the cat had become disposable. I can't refute the litterbox claim as the cat hasn't moved from underneath my bed since I brought her home. The rescue has such a thorough screening process, that it's disappointing to have someone like this pass with flying colors. The kitten I turned over was a vibrant, loving, sweet kitten who could have been the perfect pet for a family who would love her forever. Instead, she went to a woman who gave her the bare minimum to survive for two years. There are so many heartbreaking stories like this one. The dog who is being returned because he has gotten too big. The cats who were dumped at a shelter, despite the rescue clause stating they MUST come back to the rescue because it was too much hassle. The dog who was dumped at the shelter because her family couldn't wait another day to turn her over to the rescue. How about the 12 year old dog who was dumped because the kids are grown and the parents don't have time for it any more? The list goes on and on and on. We don't get to hear the stories of the family who adopted a geriatric dog, accepting all of his faults and rejoicing when he gives them almost two full years and they were only expecting six months. We don't hear the stories of the families who suffer through chemotherapy with their dogs to only get another two months with their beloved pet. When animals are treated as though they are disposable, it's an insult to those who work tirelessly to make these wonderful animals available to a loving home, devoting many hours and sacrificing family time to ensure they are placed in a safe and loving home. I hope that if you're reading this, you realize that your pet is not disposable. They aren't a razor to be thrown in the trash, or a shirt to be donated because you've grown tired of it. This is a living thing whose life and happiness depend on you, more so than a child does. Children grow up and move away. Your animal will give its life to you, unconditionally. Think about this, urge your friends, your coworkers, your family members to think about that before they bring a pet into the home. It shouldn't be treated as anything less than a lifetime commitment.