I have to bite my tongue with people sometimes, because I know if I come across as a know-it-all or judgmental, they are not going to ever listen to me, so I try to pick my battles. If I am ever called as a reference I do try to be as honest as I can, because it won't do anybody any good to have a placement that is not going to work out.

I know what you mean about the last part especially....those little milestones seem like mountains sometimes. Don't worry, mom....she and you will be fine. It seems like yesterday my sons walked to school (it was in our neighborhood) the first time, with me following them trying to hide behind stuff so they wouldn't see me. The oldest just turned 30 last weekend...seems like yesterday.

I know all the furbabies will miss her too. I'll keep you in my thoughts tomorrow, Debbie.

Is the new male cat indoor or outdoor? How old is he? If the cat starts spraying all over the house, it could become a health issue! Or if he's an outside cat... he won't likely live long, un-altered males rarely do.

Poor kitty. :(

All you can do with your friends is try to educate them. I have a guy at work that wants me to find him a rescued Shih Tzu but I keep telling him no. He is 28 and loves to party. His ex girlfriend had one and he misses the dog. He just doesn't seem responsible enough to me. Another guy at work keeps his 2 dogs outside one on a chain. One is getting over parvo. I asked him how he got it. He said his landlords dog had it. Then I found out he was going to take the dogs to the bark park this weekend. I told him not to go until his dog is completely well and they've had their vaccines. I just cringe but that's all I can do.

The best we can do is to give the information we have, try to educate and then leave it alone. It's so FRUSTRATING when people don't listen though!! :)

Believe me, I know how you feel. I'm fairly passive (unless I know you really well), so I always feel like I should've said or done something more. I have to constantly remind myself that people will take their own path in life regardless of what I say or do. I've made mistakes and learned from them, and others have to do the same. I hate it when animals and children get caught up in the mistakes of others. I have an aunt who has made the comment she should've never had kids, and she has two!! Now, that's sad.

You should always be honest and give information if you are being used for a reference especially for an adoption you don't feel comfortable about. You are the voice for the animals. It's always hard to speak out against someone, but if you don't do it, then who will? Rescues do value your opinions about potential adoptees whether it be negative or positive.

I wonder why they didn't get another cat? Goodness knows there's so many that need homes this time of year.

Sorry to hear about your friends' ignorance, but you're doing the right thing by trying to educate them and help them see what's best for the animals.

Will your daughter have friends to ride with? She'll sit with them and have a great time!! I'll bet the furkids won't be able to figure out what the heck sissy is riding on....and why aren't they going with her...

I have no idea why they didn't get another cat. It would suit their lifestyle soo much better. They already have a cat, besides the one who passed away. Now they have 2 dogs and a cat!

My daughter will be with her neighborhood friends on the bus and is sooo excited. My only concern is that she gets home on the right bus! She's a newbie at being a busser and won't even hear of me driving her to school, of course... I know she'll be fine, she's a smart little girl but I'm an over-protective mommy to her and my furkids!! Can't help it!

It is a hard issue. On one hand unless you are abusive I would have a hard time absolutely denying someone the right to have a pet. It is very important to match pets correctly as to fit in existing families, and we should be honest to that extent. We can only help people and hope for the best. Well that's my thoughts on it. I'm pretty passive too.