In my previous post, 20 Reasons to Adopt a Cat, I wrote about my naughty cat Charlie. Even though Oscar was a big ragamuffin full of love, zen, and acceptance, I love my naughty boy Charlie just the same. Charlie was my first cat, and he was a real challenge. I remember thinking during the worst of times that if a certain type of person had adopted him, he would have been surrendered back to the shelter. To say that he tried my patience is putting it lightly.
I did a number of things to get him to calm down, and they did help. But the biggest help was time and patience. Once Charlie turned three, I noticed a big change. He had matured. Now I’ve shared my home with him for 13 years, so he obviously holds a big piece of my heart. To imagine having surrendered him (something I never would have done) is such a sad thought. To think many people do just that!
So I interviewed many people who adopted pets and then realized they were in way over their heads. Some people innocently adopted puppies and kittens without realizing just how naughty they can be. Some knowingly adopted pets with issues but were still surprised at what a challenge it proved to be. But all of them stuck with it and now live happy, peaceful, loving lives with these pets.
Read the full article, Training With Patience: Making Forever Homes Last
It definitely takes patience and time for any animal. My oldest cat Theodore was a total wild man, and now he’s 11 and is calm as can be. He has turned into a big old softy cuddler whereas when he was 1-5, all he wanted to do was roam and hunt outside and not be held…
Jaime