What do we do?

Christine Cowett Robinson, Special to The County
7 years ago

The Central Aroostook Humane Society, who are we?  What do we do?  The Humane Society is a collective group of animal lovers trying to make a difference in the lives of the County’s unwanted, and abandoned animals.  Our Board makes policy and financial decisions, but we also work at many fundraisers that help the shelter, such as the Toast for the Animals and Paws for the Cause.  Our staff also helps with fundraisers, they care for the animals and educate the public; together we make an amazing team.   

When I think about how much joy and comfort my own animals bring me, I can’t help but think that every animal in every cage at the shelter is someone’s opportunity for that same comfort.  Some are a diamond in the rough, needing a little bit of work, while others are ready made.  It really does take time to find exactly the right one to fit your needs and there is a lot to consider before adopting:  your lifestyle, your economic situation, what you are looking for in a pet (active, older, playful, obedient) and honestly if you are adopting a family pet, you need to consider everyone in your family when making that decision.

Unfortunately, I don’t always practice what I preach.  My husband said recently “that cat!  You know that cat who lives in our house and I don’t know its name!”  Unfortunately, that is how we roll around the Robinson house; if it needs us, it stays.  But surprise pets are not always a great idea and gifting pets is usually never a good idea(I have also tried that one).  Its great to get everyone on board in this big decision because adopting a pet should be for the rest of that animal’s life.  If you are choosing a pet as a gift maybe your idea of a great pet isn’t the recipient’s idea or maybe they just aren’t ready, in which case it could end badly for everyone.

Ok and let’s be honest, pets are not always comforting, they are also a lot of work:  the occasional “miss of the litter box” or unidentifiable bodily fluids on your comforter, they may need training, don’t always listen and can be rather independent.  But in the end, when you weigh the pros and the cons, when you have chosen the right companion it’s all good and we can forgive many of the ups and downs that comes with living with pets.

If you are looking for a friend for life, look no further than the Central Aroostook Humane Society.  Visit us Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or visit us on Facebook.  

Please spay and neuter your pets.