By Erica Durante
KITTY AND MEG.
Meg, my older sister, did not have a wholly happy childhood. She became deaf soon after birth, probably due to a virus. Growing up, she was not fully engaged in the "hearing world." Of course, she did have other deaf friends, but most lived far away. As she grew up, she yearned for companionship that she did not feel with her friends. It was not until she was a young woman in her twenties that she finally found the joy a furry companion can bring.
My sister found comfort and happiness in a rescued cat, Kitty. Kitty was found in an abusive situation. She had lost her litter of kittens due to dehydration. She came to Meg scared, distrustful, and with an uneven gait, a sure sign of abuse. Although Kitty did not trust anyone at first, she came to trust and eventually love Meg. They still continue to live and grow together to this day.
It is heartwarming for me, as a young animal activist, to be close to such an inspirational story. I think that Meg's and Kitty's story is one that should inspire others to reconsider shelter animals, even if they do not seem affectionate at first. If one tries to earn the trust of an animal who was abused in the past, perhaps the outcome will be as inspiring as the story of my sister and her cat.
About the Author
Erica lives in New Jersey and volunteers at the only no-kill shelter in her county. She loves all types of animals, but cats hold a special place in her heart.