Victor’s been at it again. Here’s the latest from “The Eclectic Word With Victor Infante”
Well, at least he doesn’t let work get in the way of his rest.
Actually, my being home and working in the studio has been a little disruptive to him. He’s had to move his nap from my desk to my lap and/or the cat bed on the floor. Sorry Chuck!
Maybe if he didn’t weigh 23ish pounds I could share the desk with him but he’s just too huge. And he likes to stretch out while he’s sleeping.
Why can’t I be a cat?
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.
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.
