Having been raised in a household chock-full of pets - cats, bunnies, horses, a younger brother…read morewith ADD, and even a parakeet - my mind was set on adopting two cats of my own as soon as it was financially feasible. When that day came, I checked out Unconditional Love's website based on a friend's recommendation, and after finding out I'd be supporting a rescue group, I eagerly submitted my application. A few days later, I received a call asking if I could swing by their next adoption fair so they could show me some cats they thought would be great matches. I'm pretty sure I screamed "YES!" before Elena, the volunteer-slash-foster-mom on the other line, could even finish asking the question.
Upon my arrival to the adoption fair at the Pet Food Express in Los Gatos, I quickly remembered that I suck at making decisions, especially when it comes to cute, fuzzy things. Thankfully, without my having to ask for guidance, Elena and Renee, another wonderful volunteer, introduced me to Kona (Cleo) and Ellie (Lorelei), who instantly turned my heart to mush.
Unfortunately, due to extenuating circumstances, I was unable to take them home immediately. Though the weeklong wait felt like years, this time was well spent. Unconditional Love got my girls socialized, and organized their medical records, chip information, and adoption forms, making the pick-up seamless.
Perhaps most importantly, they saved two cats whose lives got off to a rather rough start, and let me give them a forever home. There are no words to describe the joy, silliness and love they've brought to my life. Unconditional Love's $100 per animal adoption fee does not begin to cover what's owed for that.
*And now, as an added bonus, I am going to step on my soapbox for just a moment to discuss my take on the breeders vs. rescues debate.*
According to the ASPCA, between 3-4 MILLION dogs and cats are euthanized nationwide each year. The vast majority of these animals are perfectly adoptable, but due to overcrowding, they don't get that chance to find their "forever" home. If you are wanting to adopt a pet, please consider: A) rescuing instead of buying from a breeder; and B) getting your pet spayed or neutered to prevent more overcrowding in shelters. If you do, you'll save money, be more likely to get a healthy pet, and most importantly, you'll feel better because you're saving two lives - the pet you adopt and a homeless animal somewhere who can be rescued because of space you helped free up.