Journal #2

Stephanie Cruz
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.

 

Miss Piggy :3

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 :)