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Along Life’s Way
My New Pet
By Lois E. Wilson
When it comes to pets, over the years I’ve had many types. There were
the usual—goldfish, cats, and dogs. From the farm there were chickens
and a duck.
Our sons also had the traditional and more exotic pets of tropical
fish, turtles, frogs, and snakes. They also had a pony which was kept
at their grandparents’ farm.
I was taught my pets’ lives depended on my care. I learned what food
and living quarters to provide them for healthy development. Having
pets is a preparation for us becoming adults with children of our own.
In recent years I’ve thought many times about getting another pet. But
at my age, for safety and health reasons, I decided not to do so.
An indoor cat would be nice to pet and hear purring in response. But a
cat could aggravate my allergies. Most dogs would also, and they have
to be walked.
A small pet in the house would be company, but they could get
underfoot, trip me, and I’d fall. It was a dangerous thought. So I
lived for a few years without a pet.
Even without a pet, I fell and broke a bone. While recuperating, one day I decided, “This is silly; you need a pet!”
I was resolute. I adopted one. Not surprisingly, it likes all the food
and things that I like. It craves and requires more attention than pets
I’ve had before. Each day we walk up and down our long hall for
exercise.
Even though it needs it, I don’t have to take it to the groomer. I’m
not as good, but for now we accomplish the task. Best of all,
sometimes my pet’s inept and awkward antics make me laugh. It knocks
things over and spills things
I know about the needs and care of pets, especially this one. I’ll bet
you’ve guessed it. This pet and I are inseparable—because my new pet is
me! And just as I predicted, it got under my feet and tripped me—I’m
still recuperating with its help. But to all you doubters who say, “You
can’t teach an old dog new tricks?” You’re wrong!
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