Animals are truly a gift, in more ways than one. We should all be more respectful and grateful for their presence on this shared planet of ours. If I had ONE purely selfish wish, it would be that I had NO allergies to animals (dander, saliva, feathers, you name it). But as it stands, they make me as physically miserable as they do spiritually happy. How hilarious for the Powers That Be - I’m sure that was the intention! I can barely deal with the ONE pet I have…but I can’t imagine my life without him. (My sweet-yet-often-mischievous little chi-chi, Gabriel.) Once I get this allergy crap under enough control, I will finally be free to attempt my dream of becoming seriously involved in animal welfare. Oh yes I WILL — just you wait and see. By the way, you ladies keep posting all these fun discussions late at night when I am the MOST active (online as well as mentally) - I am starting to become paranoid that people think I am a freak for being always among the first to reply!

My beautiful, furry “babies” are the things that make me most happy too. I really enjoy watching my Pekingese, Sable (aka, Bean), play with her friend Pierre the poodle (he’s French you know). They act just like kids every weekend when they are told that they will see their “Pierre” or “Bean.” Every time they are reunited they run up to each other and love on each other, then they play with their toys (my house looks as though I live with a 2-year old), play tug of war with their rope, wrestle, and chase each other in the backyard. Then, of course, they take naps (and if mama watches them long enough, she gets sleepy and takes a nap too). Now, my “old girl” Tadpole (Yorkie) just wants to be left alone. And as far as behaving, my cat Jordan (aka, JORDAN STOP!/GET DOWN!/WHAT ARE YOU DOING NOW?!! [take your pick]) doesn’t know the meaning of the word. Well, he DOES know the meaning; he just chooses not to comply.

Dear Ms. Lily: I wrote to you last night but somehow my message didn’t make it. I wanted to let you know that we pets appreciate the love and kindness shown to us by people like you and we enjoy being there for you in every way. I especially like checking out the veggie garden with one of my people. It is nice to know how many people find us so important in their lives. Love, Dice

Our friends don’t just have to be furry to make us happy. We inherited my son’s chameleon, “Liz.” She died this week and we were upset.Even the neighbors came over for her “funeral.” Not a dry eye. Yesterday though, our schnauzer Spike, who was furry, had an acute cardiac event and also died. Along with making us happy ,they make us sad- but always happy memories

Lily, Animals know us well and we know them almost as well :-) Those animals that have been “family” for me -and there have been many- have much more going on inside themselves than our species is capable of knowing. I see it in their eyes, posture, actions, choices and patience. The glimpse is magic for me because I accept my humble inability to “know”. Not a single one of them is here for H. sapien’s ego-centered convenience. Bond attachment, — the trust, when earned— and the boundaries discovered ARE A GIFT TO ME. I am humbled. I have several stories I’d like to share if you are interested. As a wOw-er for over four months I know the beauty of stories shared. Write me if you know of what I speak. Powerful and visceral topic - animals and happiness; theirs and ours. I know why, but I’d like to hear from you

I wrote previously about my friend dog - “Angel” I rescued her after she was dumped off in front of my Apt. - She is so appreciative she allows me to live in the place with her… I do sometimes allow her the impression that she owns me, though. She is quite a conversationalist, as well. We talk frequently - mostly she just wants more treats, bones, or kibbles. And, lots of hugs, brushing, and play. Lily; on a more serious level - I have a gift which enables me to see things from a distance. I risk writing this, because it is not something a lot of people comprehend, or accept. Since I feel it important enough, I share with you about my ‘visit’ with Jenny (the elephant). She is in deep deep depression, is crying a lot, and getting sadder and sadder. She doesn’t know what to do except pace, or move in a manner which is an attempt to let someone know how much anguish she is feeling. I would that I had a better vehicle of communication with you Lily. As this is quite risky, as you most assuredly are able to comprehend. I am silly, I am foolish oft times, and a kidder… I am not a whacko, though.

Lil, I feel the same way about my little brother!