I was 8 years old when my very first cat, Stripe, walked into my heart and never left. She had the most unique marking – a stripe that started at her nose, widened between her ears, narrowed down her neck, and then stretched beautifully all the way to the tip of her tail. Since then, animals have always been a part of my life.
From that childhood bond with Stripe to years spent rescuing, fostering, and rehoming both dogs and cats, pets have shaped my lifestyle in ways I never could have predicted as a young kid. Today I fully know that animals enrich our homes, improve our health, and open open our hearts to pure love.
From Cyprus to Spain – A Life of Rescue
When I lived in Cyprus, I became actively involved in rescuing and fostering animals – both dogs and cats. Some came into my home for a short while, others stayed longer, and many found new families because of the love and care they received during those transition days.
After moving to Spain, I took a brief pause – but as life always has its way (and the Universe could feel my love for animals), I soon found myself back at it. Over the past few years, I’ve volunteered in a local cat shelter, taken in kittens and adult cats needing temporary homes, and helped rehome them to people who would love them as much as I did.
Losing Maggie – A Silent Home
After my beloved dog Maggie passed away – at the ripe old age of 15 – I told myself never again.
Watching her suffer toward the end was heart-wrenching, and saying goodbye nearly broke me. I had experienced enough losses of beloved pets before her.
For the first time in years, I found myself in a home without any animals.
It felt empty. Too quiet. Too still.
I tried to ignore it, and for some time, I was able to convince myself, I would never be a pet owner again.
Love Finds a Way – Six Furry Companions
For some reason, my ears easily tunes in on kittens in distress, sometime I search for them, other time not as I can’t locate where the sound is coming from…
And although I am ready to commit to having another pet, I can’t adopt right now due to where I live.
I still stay close to animals through my volunteer work. And I’m lucky – someone very close to me has five cats (yes, five!) including two I rescued myself little over a year ago. They where only kittens back then. In addition to the 5 cats, there is also a adorable dog living at that household.
Every time I visit, I feel like I’m surrounded by love, mischief, and purring contentment.
Why Having Pets Is a Lifestyle Choice
Choosing to live with pets isn’t just about cuddles (though those are magical). It’s a lifestyle. Here’s why:
1. Unconditional Love & Companionship
Whether you’ve had the worst day or just need a comforting presence, animals offer a kind of love and loyalty that’s hard to explain. They just know.
2. Improved Mental Health
Studies show that petting a cat or dog can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and ease anxiety. They ground us. They bring us back to the moment.
3. Routine and Responsibility
Pets need feeding, playtime, walks (for dogs), and vet check-ups. They help us build routines, which is great for anyone seeking more structure and purpose.
4. Joy in the Little Things
Whether it’s a kitten chasing a feather or a dog wagging its tail like it hasn’t seen you in years – even if you’ve just been gone for five minutes – pets remind us to smile, play, and be present.
5. They Become Family
It’s not unusual to talk to your pets like they understand every word. (And maybe they do.) They become part of your story – your mornings, evenings, weekends, and everything in between.
Can’t Adopt? You Can Still Help
Not everyone can take in a pet. But everyone can do something. If you feel a pull in your heart for animals, consider:
Donating food or money to your local shelter
Sponsoring a pet’s medical care
Sharing adoption posts on social media
Volunteering your time
Becoming a foster parent for a short period
Most shelters rely heavily on community support. Even the smallest gesture makes a big difference.
Final Thoughts from a Lifelong Animal Lover
I might not currently live with a pet – even though I am ready for it – but I still live a pet lifestyle – visiting shelters, helping rehome rescues, and soaking up the love of the five furry personalities which I mentioned above.
There’s something beautifully grounding about animals. They don’t care about your income, your bad hair days, or your to-do list. They love you for you – in the purest form.
If you’ve ever loved a pet, you know exactly what I mean. And if you’ve never had one – maybe it’s time to visit your local shelter. You might just meet your Stripe.
Let’s Make a Difference Together
If this post resonates with you, share it. Donate to your local shelter. Visit and volunteer. Or simply cuddle your furry friend a little closer tonight and whisper, “thank you.”
Do you have a special pet story? I’d love to hear it in the comments below.
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