Adopt a Pet

As some may know, Jonathan and I adopted our cat, Adelaide, from the Charlottesville SPCA. They are a no-kill shelter that has hundreds of wonderful animals ready for new homes. We were so excited to get a new pet and to help an animal in need at the same time.

Animals can be extremely therapeutic. I have battled with depression since childhood and although I have come a long way from my low times of soul-searching, Adelaide brings a constant beam of sunshine to my life. To feel loved and wanted unconditionally is indescribable. I am loved and wanted by God, and I have a great hope in my salvation in Jesus Christ. Having and caring for another, whether a child, pet, spouse, what have you, allows us to better understand the kind of love that God has for us. No matter how hard of a day I've had at work, I can come home to the jingle of Addie's collar as she rushes down the stairs to greet me. No matter how stressed I am about a situation in my life, Addie senses the frustration or disappointment and comes to my side. Animals have a keen sense of protection and compassion. We are so blessed to be pet owners, and I know we've blessed Adelaide in adopting her.

We first adopted her in February, as a birthday gift to me from Jonathan. She is a doll. So full of life, full of love, and hasn't been a lick of trouble! She is a full-grown runt at only 7.1 lbs. She will always look like a kitten, and will likely always be curious like one, too!

Adopted animals come with a mixed bag of backgrounds. We think Adelaide was either neglected, abused, or both. She is not like most cats. She doesn't meow, doesn't scratch on furniture, and for a while she didn't even jump up on the couch with us. We taught her that it's okay to lay next to us and even on our laps and that it's okay to jump up onto the bed and other soft furniture. She's only jumped up on the counters once (to chase a bug) and we quickly corrected her with a HISS. She never did it again.

I am a huge advocate for non-violent pet behavior correction. There are many ways to correct a pet that do not involve physical harm. Spray bottles (with water), loud sounds, a tin can with coins inside, and just being consistent in enforcing the rules. There are many ethical ways to train a pet.

Adelaide is a joy to our hearts and a fantastic addition to our home. I think everyone should adopt, whether it is a child, an animal, or a positive action or thought.