Column: Something About Nothing

We no longer have Sam our faithful pooch to entertain us. Sam found a new loving home with people that do not have allergies.

I no longer have Sam’s coat left on my hardwood floor. I no longer hear the bells ringing in the middle of the night because of a bat sighting or the need for Sam to go outside. I no longer have that nose nudging me when I am ill making me smile and feel better.

Sam is greatly missed. He brought a richness to our lives and an energy that makes my household seem silent and less full. It was hard to let him go. I still gaze at his pictures that sit on my desk and think of him every day. There was something about Sam that left a lasting impression in my heart.

Recently I have read that many shelters are reducing the price of their animals because there are so many animals in need of a new home.

Sam was lucky and we were able to find him a loving home. Many other animals are not so lucky; for whatever reason, their owners were not able to keep them.

If you are looking for a special pet to grace your home I urge you to adopt from one of the shelters or animal rescues. That is where we found Sam and he gave us over four years of love before we could no longer keep him. The animals in the shelters are excellent pets.

I do want to warn you if you are thinking of adopting a pet and have not had a pet before that adopting a pet is not all roses. Pets cost money and take work. There are vet bills and food bills and bills to replace that which might get chewed.

If you have a dog there are also his large or small droppings that need to be picked up. If you have a cat there are the wonderful litter box chores. Pet ownership is a responsibility.

If you are thinking of adopting a pet take some time to research the best type of dog or cat for your family.

Sam was a laidback, mushy dog that had about three rounds of running around the yard before he was done. He fit in well with our laid back household and with our wild grandchildren. He was a gentle giant.

If after you have done your research and still want to adopt a pet check out the local Humane Society chapters and Petfinders.com. The pet of your dreams could be there.

I never thought I would miss hair on my black pants, being waked out of a deep sleep and not being able to read a book or a newspaper without being disturbed by a nudging nose, but I do.

I still leap to my feet when the doorbell rings to beat Sam there only to realize he is not there to greet my visitors.

I still shed a tear when I find a stray white hair left over somewhere where I am cleaning. I know he is happy where he is and that is all I could ask for.

Good luck on your search and if you decide to adopt be prepared to lose your heart.

Wells resident Julie Seedorf’s column appears every Monday. Send email to her at thecolumn@bevcomm.net.