Gateway pets–once you adopt you can’t stop!
“Don’t do it, Lauren–that’s gonna be your gateway cat; once you adopt you can’t stop!” These sage words were given to me by a colleague seven years ago when I took home a patient in need of a home. And here I am now with a total of 7!
Now I know it’s possible to be a single pet owner, but of the clients I see, most are multiple animal households. You think, sure what’s one more?
All people have their reasons for having multiple pets, but for me it became difficult not to. Once I began working as a vet, the amount of injured animals facing euthanasia or homelessness were overwhelming. And rather than putting down that kitten with three legs, it was easier for me to just take her home and adopt her; hence little Camilla.
Camilla, our little three legged cat.
This is a very slippery slope for a vet with a soft spot for sad cases. Seven years later and we have a dog, 3 cats, and 3 chickens: far less than if I didn’t have Husband to put the brakes on our adoptee accumulation. He has likened himself to an AA sponsor—but for animal addicts.
And now I’m considering another dog to take into our home. Husband is personally not on board, but understands this compulsion I have and will support my decision. I know it’s not a sustainable practice, but it’s so hard to turn your back on a life in need!
What was your gateway pet? Are you a serial adopter like me?
Another dog????
What is this ones story?
Oh it’s a long and complicated tale…but basically another three legged creature in need of a forever home. I will do my best to get her to stay where she is, but if they want to put her down I don’t think I will be able to.