J. Hutchman
Lang 120
25 October 2012
Journal #2
Attending Brother Wolf Animal Rescue
for the second time provided me with an even greater intimate and enlightening
experience. Though there was still much sadness in the environment, there was
also a feeling of hope. Immediately I had noticed so many animals which had
been taken home to new families, and that provided me with a real sense of
comfort. I also tried to be constantly reminded that while the animals are at
the shelter, volunteers can still brighten this dark time in their lives.
At first, there is so many tasks
which can be accomplished that there is a difficulty in knowing where to begin.
Even before arriving I had told myself that I would just do some of the dishes
and spend time with some of the animals. I was so afraid of becoming too
emotional around them again or being afraid to ask for help from other
volunteers. They appeared as if they knew everything about the shelter and I
was afraid to interfere with their routine. Surprisingly, I ended up walking
two of the dogs with my friend Lauren. First we talked a dog that was very
rambunctious and had a lot of energy. He could not wait to get outside and
explore every nook and cranny of the woods. Along the way, however, we came to
a parking lot where there were many large trucks. He was immediately threatened
and was so hysterical at the men who entered and exited the vehicles. This yet
again reminded me of the scary environment in which these animals live. They
all have a story and fears just like regular people do, except they are
constantly overlooked. I can’t help but feel ashamed that there was not more I
could do to protect him or make him feel safe besides petting him or taking him
for a walk.
After we brought him back inside, we
were able to walk the most precious dog I have encountered in years. Her name
was Miss Piggy and she was a boxer. I will never forget how beautiful and
gentle she was, even for her strength. She immediately reminded me of my dog
that was stolen from me years ago, and I was brought back to times of walking
her every day. Though Miss Piggy was more calm than the first dog, she was
extremely loving. She would climb into yourlap, despite her size, and would
give you endless kisses. I wished desperately that I could take her home, and
yet again I contemplated why nobody would have bought her already. I will be
excited if I get to see her again next time, and yet I will also be very sad if
I know that she has not been taken to a home.
Towards the end of the trip, I was
able to spend time with the kittens which are always a favorite of mine. They
are so loving and affectionate because they have not known too many horrors of
the world yet, or so I assume. There was one crate of kittens who were sad on
this particular day. The woman had brought them back after buying them because
she said that they were too much to handle. Yet again, I could not fathom how
anyone would think these animals were a burden. They were very upset and
sheltered because they had not known a constant home or love. As opposed to
most of the kittens, they were too themselves and very defense driven. Working
in the shelter can always repeat the reality that these animals are undeniably
beautiful, but they are also very alone and shattered emotionally. I may not be
able to fix every single one of them, but just like the other volunteers I can
make them feel loved regardless.
Kittens <3
And more kittens ^_^
All of these animals are simply amazing and I feel so blessed that I have the opportunity to work with them :)
