Our most recent educational presentation was at the library for
26 children & some of their parents. (This was on July 18, 2007)
Our message could be applied to ANY pet, because it is one of
responsibility & commitment.

When we did our origional gig there in 2005, some of the parents didn't
want us to come. They told the librarian they were afraid their kids
would come home WANTING one of those smelly things!!! Judy assured them
that Zoo would do exactly the OPPOSITE!!! Some came, just to see. They
were shocked when I asked the kids (ranging in age from 6 to 12) "How
would you feel if you were driving somewhere with your mom, & suddenly
she said "Ya know what? I'm TIRED of cooking your meals! I'm TIRED of
doing your laundry! I'm TIRED of taking care of you when you're sick!!!
I think I'll just open the car door & put you out in the road!! GO
AWAY!!!" I then took Marjorie out of her carrier---and as she began to
kiss my face, I went on to say "This little girl was found dumped in an
outdoor toilet. Her owner just didn't want her anymore. Can you imagine
how frightened she was, struggling & dirty and trying to escape?
Fortunately, somebody saw her down there, rescued her, & brought her
to us. And we made her a promise. No one will ever hurt her,or leave
her again!!"

During our first library talk, I asked the kids how many of their
parents were divorced. 12 kids out of 18 raised their hands. I told
them my parents had been divorced too--and then I asked them if they
knew what the word "commitment" meant. No hands came up. I talked about
being there for your pet, your family, your friend,--and eventually
your spouse--no matter what. I told them that their pets would teach
them some of life's most important lessons, if they would only listen.
Marjorie continued to lick my face--and later allowed the kids, one by
one, to hold her, & pet her.

The little eight year old, who had tears in her eyes back then, asked
about Marjorie now, two years later, on the 18th. I told her that
our sweet little Marjorie was now gone. She had lost her battle with
cancer, but had lived each day to the fullest, & had died surrounded
with love. No one ever abandoned her again. We had kept our promise to
her--and it's a promise we make each one...The little girl whispered
"Commitment" --and petted Omega, who was there for the presentation...

Reach out to the kids--I do believe they are our answer.

Love, Zoo

[Posted in FML 5727]