Furry-Side Chats, Summer 2023

In Memory of Fred

Our pets stay alive in our hearts and heads long after they are no longer with us. Dedicated Animal League America volunteer and supporter Janette cherishes the memory of her beloved rescue dog Fred, named after her favorite character on “I Love Lucy.” She adopted Fred after college, when she felt ready for the responsibility. “I went to North Shore Animal League America because of its reputation,” Janette said. “All of the puppies were adorable, but Fred immediately wanted to cuddle. He charmed me in about 30 seconds.” A very loyal and active dog, Fred enjoyed running around the track at Queens College with his dog mom. “He brought so much joy to my life,” Janette recalled. “You can be having the worst day, but when they’re so happy to see you, it immediately makes things better. Now I volunteer and walk dogs at North Shore, and I never go home without thinking about the great ones I met that day.”

“I think everyone should have an animal from North Shore Animal League America. It just makes life better!”

Sadie

Jennifer felt it was divine intervention that guided her to adopt her beloved dog Sadie. She had recently lost a dog to cancer, but had made him a promise that she would “open her heart again to a dog who really needed a home.” Initially Sadie was a bit fearful, but Jennifer believed her family could give Sadie the love and attention she needed. “Sadie was being passed up by everyone at the shelter,” Jennifer said. “When we approached her, she melted our hearts. Sadie was so sweet and looking for someone to love her. She looked in our eyes and we knew she needed us as much as we needed her.” The care from her adoring family has helped Sadie overcome her fear. This loving and affectionate dog inspires her family every day: “She’s just the sweetest dog ever and she brought light into our home. We enjoy every moment with her.”

“Sadie is the absolute perfect dog for us and she made our home and hearts complete.”

Shay

Shay came into Brooke’s life during the pandemic, but adopting a cat was something that Brooke had been thinking about for a long time: “I only wish I had made that decision sooner. There was never a doubt that I would adopt, so I went to Animal League America.” Brooke was aware that older cats can have a harder time finding homes than kittens, and so she visited with all the cats at Bianca’s Furry Friends to find the right fit: “When I approached Shay, she rolled onto her back so I could rub her belly. She chose me! And she still loves to have her belly rubbed.” In addition to her beauty, Brooke appreciates how smart and curious Shay is. Now feeling comfortable at home, Shay no longer hides from visitors, but even recognizes Brooke’s friends. Love for Shay has also spread to the special education classroom where Brooke teaches, where her young students enjoy hearing stories about Shay and drawing pictures of her.

“Animal League America is so fantastic at connecting pets and families, and they really helped with all the questions I had as Shay and I got settled in.”