He thinks we can’t see him, originally uploaded by Claudia Snell.

This is Chuck. One of our “foundling” pets. He was abandoned in an apartment at about 6 months old. His previous owners left him there when they moved out

Although it’s really bad that he was abandoned, it turned out to be great luck for us. He’s been one of the best pets I’ve ever had.

I’ve written about him before and will do it again because it’s important to remind people that there are a lot of animals that get left behind or dumped for whatever reason. These animals need help and homes.

I’ve heard people say that the animal was probably dumped for a good reason - they blame the animal for it’s situation. I’ve heard people talk about the “fun” of having a new puppy or kitten. There’s the “cute” factor that turns people off adopting older animals. As in, older animals just aren’t “cute enough”. I’ve got a different point of view.

There are a lot of reasons pets are left and it’s all about the owner’s problems - financial troubles, owners become too old or sick to care for them, work schedules, family issues - none of which are the animal’s fault. Chuck’s only “crime” was that he was inconvenient when it came time to move. He was not a “bad cat” that deserved to be left behind.

/mini-rant
Yes, I do sound a bit upset with the people who left him and I am. They were students who knew they’d be moving out. They should have made sure they were going to be able to care for their pets for life before they picked up cute new kittens (Chuck had 2 sisters abandoned with him - all were adopted and are happy. They were lucky.). Cats live for a long time - longer than 6 months.
/end mini-rant

If you are thinking of getting a new pet, PLEASE check the shelters and rescue leagues before heading out to get a brand new baby animal. If “bonding” is a concern I can understand that but I can also offer our experience with Chuck. He couldn’t be more part of our family if we had gotten him at 8 weeks old. It actually seems that he appreciates us more and is more affectionate because of his ordeal. (I’m just comparing him to the many other cats I’ve had. I’ve never had one more focused on being part of the family.)

As for “cuteness” that does wear off for all pets. The upside of him being older was that he was beyond the crazy destructive kitten thing. You cat owners know about that stuff - the chewing, the curtain climbing, the wailing kitten in the night, the furniture destroying, the child clawing - ugh!!!! That’s right dog owners, cats are a bundle of trouble when they are babies too

Anyway, that’s it. I just need to post my “support pet adoption” thing every so often. It’s a good thing to do.

Some helpful links

Pet Rock Festival
Pet Rock is a festival and ongoing project of Charlene Arsenault. I’m sure if you check their site, you can find lots of advise on how to adopt a pet or how to find a home if you cannot keep a pet. Pet Rock has an annual event, visit their site for information or to learn how you can support Pet Rock: http://www.petrockfest.com/

The Cat Hostpital of Auburn
If it’s a cat you are looking for, The Cat Hostpital of Auburn always has adoptable cats. They post pictures on the site so you can have a look at who needs a home.

Related ‘I’m From Worcester Posts’
Animals! Post about a pregnant cat that was dumped at our complex.
Update post This one was an update to the “Animals!” post.
Final update on “Animals!” Yes, The abandoned cat found a home.

Here’s another site that can help you find an adoptable pet:
Pet Finder. You can find info. about adoptions, pet care, adoptable pets - you get the picture.

We went out to the parade yesterday. Everyone else who was out there knows it was freezing, windy and a lot of fun. It’s really something that you should get out and experience. The crowds were huge but from what I could see, mostly really well behaved. People seemed to be in a good mood and having a great time.

There were a lot of people dressed in parade appropriate gear like this awesome guy who was nice enough to let me take his picture. I LOVE his hat!

There were also a lot of great bands. This is the Worcester Fire Brigade Pipes and Drums - WOW!! They totally rock!

I saw some people I know. This is a great guy I used to work with driving a truck in the parade. Hi Mike!

And there were a lot of funny moments too. This officer was doing his job and suddenly had some help from a dragon.

I’ve got a totally stupid amount of photos on my Flickr. I actually have a bunch more than what is up there but haven’t had time to post. Soon… I hope.

Gerbera Daisy from Sprout, originally uploaded by Claudia Snell.

If you haven’t checked out Sprout on June Street - do it. Sprout is the most awesome florist. Ever.

All their stuff is custom - unique. Quality is great. Their people are great. Just go there.

Chocolate Pop tart - burnt, originally uploaded by Claudia Snell.

This is what happens when you put a Pop Tart into a microwave set on high for 2 minutes. It’s also one of my daughter’s early adventures in trying to “cook”.

This pic. is about a year old. She did learn something from this incident. Mostly to avoid putting anything in the microwave without getting help from an adult.

(No reason to post this today - I just think it’s funny.)

Updated / extended or whatever

Jeff (Wormtown Taxi) makes a good point about this Pop Tart incident being a good learning experience (see comment). We learned a couple of things from this:

• When a Pop Tart gets this hot it makes a lot of smoke. Enough to set off the smoke detectors and stink up the apartment
• When a Pop Tart does this on a matte finish plate they become permanently fused. We had to toss the plate
• Our cat, Chuck, WILL taste anything and attempt to eat it if he is allowed

Yippeee!!! Friday!!