I have been blessed by my critters over the years.
Many were saved at the last possible moment from shelters, others
have just shown up and been taken in and loved. And because I
loved them, I made sure that they were all neutered or spayed
and have regular trips to the veterinarian for their shots.
Goodness knows there are enough critters killed each year in
shelters because there are not enough homes for them.
*Stepping up on the soapbox*
I've heard the "wanting to teach the children about the facts
of life" story ad nauseum. If you feel that way, then teach
them also the "facts of death"....take your kids to the shelter
on the day that the unwanted animals are killed and let them
see that too. A neutered animal has fewer diseases and injuries
and lives a much longer, healthier life than those who just
keep having litter after litter, or are responsible for those litters.
Oh, and another thing...if you love your critters, make them
house pets...indoor critters...and they will also live longer
healthier lives. They'll thank you for it, and when you come
home at night, you won't be wondering if that bloody pile of
fur on the road was the same loving critter you fed this morning.
*stepping off soapbox*
Thanks for listening....please enjoy my kitties.....