Consider adopting before buying a pet
By Nancy Nichols
Board member
It was about this time 14 years ago that we adopted our pet — otherwise she might have been on her way to the Central Aroostook Humane Society’s shelter.
SHEBA, 14-year-old fur baby of Nancy and Steve Nichols of Presque Isle, visited with Santa and Mrs. Paws at the Central Aroostook Humane Society on Cross Street in Presque Isle on Dec. 1. Santa will return for more photo ops on Dec. 8. 
Stop by and enjoy some wonderful treats, visit the pets and have a snapshot taken of your furbaby with Santa. There is no fee but donations are gladly accepted and will benefit the homeless pets of the area.
My husband Stephen and I are the proud owners of Miss Sheba. There isn’t a day that goes by that we don’t think “How long will we have her?” and feel blessed to have had her in our lives for so long. Of course, we realize the responsibilities of owning an older dog — Sheba takes more medication than my husband and I together. But that is what we signed up for when we adopted her.
I have spoken to many individuals who tell me that they will never own a pet again because of the heartache experienced once you lose them.
I remind them of all the fun and good times spent with their pets and what wonderful companions they were.
I know we probably will not be ready to immediately adopt another animal, but after sufficient grieving time, I am sure we will be open to the idea.
Miss Sheba is a unique girl — some of you might even remember her.
She used to be on television with me, reminding pet owners to license their dogs.
All I can say is please don’t close that door once you lose your pet. There are so many wonderful loving animals at the Central Aroostook Humane Society. They didn’t ask to be there. Consider adopting a pet before purchasing one.
Stop by CAHS on Cross Street and hold some of these animals in your arms. They are such loving creatures.
For more information, call 764-3441.
