As a (now substitute) teacher, I have always felt sorry for the kids in the class who are in homes without any pets. What a connection they are missing out on – something so basic yet so fulfilling to most of us, be it via our cats, dogs, horses, chickens, or other furry / feathered friends. I think back to my early childhood in Manhattan where I grew up with a Weimeraner as my guardian, and then later in Central New York where we had a full flock of critters – horses, ducks, chickens, cats, dogs, and a mouse I used to carry in my pocket. Life wasn’t without heartbreak – I remember my dad driving like mad through a snowstorm to get to the vet, with me in the passenger seat cradling Dddit – a young duck we had raised from a hatchling – and his expiring on the way. I think we both cried. But those tearful moments were balanced by the incredible joy and comfort each animal brought to the home.
While my mother had a cat (Siamese of course) before I was born, I always wonder if such a deep connection with animals didn’t cement here, in 1967, when I went to see the original Dr. Dolittle, starring Rex Harrison. Who did not cry buckets of tears when you watched this segment?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYbRQWbQ4q4
I have been so fortunate to have met and loved so many different animals in my lifetime. While not everyone was a soulmate, I’ve had more than my share. But the one I miss the most is without a doubt, Mr. Bibbles.
