Happy animal month! Actually, I don't think that's a thing ... but it sure feels like it at our house lately.
In recent times we've had an increase in animal activity around our area. Mostly it's been wildlife, hanging around a bit closer to the house because it's been so hot and dry that the only way they can get any decent water and food is to get closer to humans. These are the joys of living in a semi-rural area in a drought. We've been making sure there is plenty of water outside, in containers around the property and in the bird bath, so that all the animals can find refreshment. We throw food scraps into the gardens and hang overripe fruit in the trees. There has been a constant stream of various birds, as well as possums, bats, lizards, kangaroos, a large echidna and even a young carpet snake, so we're happy to help them out.
Well, the snake gave everyone a fright at first, but he's pretty harmless. To us, anyway.
Well, the snake gave everyone a fright at first, but he's pretty harmless. To us, anyway.
We also have to be aware that, in the warmer weather of Spring, there are lots of animals moving around with no road sense whatsoever. I hit a young kangaroo just a few nights ago, with the front of my car. I wasn't going too fast and reacted quickly to hit the brakes. I felt the impact, but the roads in our neighbourhood are very quiet, so I was able to back the car up and get out to check on the animal - thankfully he seemed to be only stunned, rather than physically hurt. He sat for a couple of minutes, then hopped away as I approached him. The only damage to my car was a bent number plate, so I'm pleased we both seem to have had a lucky escape.
Back to the story though, we've also made a change to our domestic animal situation. Since the end of 2017, the only pet we've had is our cat, Panda. She's named for her black and white coat (although I tell everyone it's because she was heading for the size of a panda before we put her on a diet!). A couple of days ago though, the Caveman happened to mention that he would consider having a second cat again. He's a cat lover, and even prefers cats over dogs. Anyway, the kids didn't need any extra encouragement ... immediately, our daughter said, "Really? Because we know of one that needs a home."
All the details came out - the cat belonged to a friend of the kids, who couldn't keep her anymore. No one seemed to know exactly how old she was (between 1 and 2 years?), or what breed, or how many kittens she's had (our son is certain he was aware of two litters). Her owner loved her, but wasn't in a position to provide the care she needed. So, on the strength of that and one photo we saw of her, we agreed to give her a chance.
Yes, it was a spontaneous decision. I could hear my Mum in my mind, lecturing me, even as I agreed the cat could come to us.
Anyway, she's been here for three days now and seems to have settled in well. She is very sweet and affectionate, although she and Panda are still deciding whether they'll be friends. I've booked her in to see the Vet for desexing, microchipping and all that responsible ownership stuff.
The really funny thing is that her name is Meerkat. So now we have Panda and Meerkat. We might only have two cats, but it sounds like we're starting up a zoo!
All the details came out - the cat belonged to a friend of the kids, who couldn't keep her anymore. No one seemed to know exactly how old she was (between 1 and 2 years?), or what breed, or how many kittens she's had (our son is certain he was aware of two litters). Her owner loved her, but wasn't in a position to provide the care she needed. So, on the strength of that and one photo we saw of her, we agreed to give her a chance.
Yes, it was a spontaneous decision. I could hear my Mum in my mind, lecturing me, even as I agreed the cat could come to us.
Anyway, she's been here for three days now and seems to have settled in well. She is very sweet and affectionate, although she and Panda are still deciding whether they'll be friends. I've booked her in to see the Vet for desexing, microchipping and all that responsible ownership stuff.
The really funny thing is that her name is Meerkat. So now we have Panda and Meerkat. We might only have two cats, but it sounds like we're starting up a zoo!
