This is a letter that I received via e-mail from a 12 year old named Brekka.
Reading this makes me realize that there really are alot of loving caring people out there, Brekka...thank you for telling me about how you got Lady, and especially, THANKS to you and your parents. Because of people like you, there is one less forgotten, neglected animal out in the world.

            When selecting a pet, families need to consider how much time and
            space they have. Pets should never be selected on impulse "for the
            children" or as a gift during the holidays. Family budget, schedules,
            travel plans and lifestyle all need to be considered. In many cases, the
            choice of a goldfish or a small bird might be a good starting point for
            the family. These animals are a good way of introducing children to
            the world of animals since they are mostly for watching rather than
            handling and require less care. Breed selection is also important.
            Choose a pet that is gentle, both by breed and individual personality.
            A local veterinarian can provide parents with this useful information.
            Some animals should never be pets. Turtles, poisonous snakes,
            chimpanzees, skunks, ferrets and other usually wild animals bite and
            frequently carry disease. Furthermore, as this type of animal matures,
            it can become aggressive, and the family is then faced with the
            difficulty of placing their exotic pet in a new home. All pets should be
            checked by a veterinarian for disease, and family members should be
            certain they are not allergic to the pet before it is brought home.

            Even if you do not have children, be a responsible pet owner. Do not
            keep an aggressive pet in a neighborhood where there are small
            children. Always protect neighborhood children by leashing or fencing
            your pet and obtaining the necessary immunizations.

            Pets are truly members of the American family, and children and pets
            have always been a winning combination. A pet can give a youngster
            the chance to practice kindness, patience, consistency, and regard for
            others.

            A child knows their pet is never too busy to listen, will always hear
            them out, and is extremely trustworthy. Listen to your child's
            conversations with their pet. The words will tell you what the child
            likes, fears, worries about, and how they feel about themselves.The
            relationship between children and a pets can be an important link
            between the child, their world and other human beings.