Interview with Morris

JLG: Morris, thank you for joining me today.

M:

JLG: I realize your life has been a bit upended over the past, well, five months or so. Can you tell us about that?

M:

JLG: Can I at least pull you out so we can chat a bit better?

JLG: Ok, that’s a start. How are you feeling today?

M: I’m so very scared. I feel so alone. I don’t understand.

JLG: Let me go ahead and share with our readers about how you came to be here. Nine years ago, you were transferred to our facility from a rescue group in another county. You were a little kitten, but there was no room for you at their animal control facility. You came here, instead of being euthanized. You were a sweet and playful kitten, and it was no surprise to us when you were adopted by a nice lady after being with us only a month! Your new mama was just getting ready to retire from her job, and she wanted a companion. Do you remember being here at the shelter at all, Morris?

M: [does not respond, but accepts petting and begins to purr a little]

JLG: I don’t know, but I imagine you both had a happy life together. About five years ago, she bought a house. Her adult child moved in upstairs, and you and your mama lived downstairs. Upstairs, there were two cats and some dogs, but I understand you didn’t pay them any attention.

JLG: By all accounts, everything was fine until around Christmas. We were told that your mama was showing signs of dementia, and didn’t really understand that she was meant to take care of you. Your mama moved upstairs, but you were kept downstairs alone all the time. That must have been sad for you.

M:

JLG: After five months of being alone, your mama’s adult child found your original adoption paperwork and called us. Your mama wasn’t able to care for you, and the family didn’t want you either. But we have a lifetime commitment to you, Morris. You always have a home here. You will always be loved here. You will receive the veterinary care you need. You will be safe. You don’t need to worry any more. I know it’s hard to experience this challenge, and it’s hard for us to watch you struggling. But please know, you are no longer alone.

JLG: We love you, Morris. So very much.