ANIMAL ADVOCATE

Even at a young age, I was fascinated with animals: cats, dogs, squirrels, skunks, cows, raccoons, mice, deer, and pretty much anything with four legs and fur. I’m still that way. I have always lived with pets and I always will. My house would seem empty without them. I currently have five cats (yes, I realize that is a bit over the top), a lizard named Larry, and not too long ago I said goodbye to my amazing dog of 19 years. Someday when the time is right, I will get another dog.
Growing up we always had at least one cat. In college I missed having a pet so I adopted a mouse. (My roommate was not thrilled.) In addition to my own pets, over the past couple of years I’ve fostered four cats; nursed a baby bird back to health; and dreamed of getting a pet skunk (de-scented, of course). Oddly, I haven’t been able to talk my husband into that one!

I worked at The Weather Channel as an on-air meteorologist for 14 fabulous years. While I was there I approached my some of the executives about covering weather stories that involved animals. Animals are one of my greatest joys in life. I wanted to use my platform to bring attention to the needs and welfare of animals while also promoting pet adoption, spaying and neutering. I loved working on those stories. In the future I hope I can get involved in even bigger projects that bring good things to animals.

When you go to a shelter to adopt a pet ask the shelter volunteers and workers which cats or dogs are the most loving. They will know which ones will make the best pets. Adult cats and dogs are often overlooked. It is such a shame because there are so many sweet ones in need of a home. Spend a few minutes with them and you’ll have a pretty good idea of what they are like and know if they are the right cat or dog For you. Make sure to bring your kids along to make sure your future pet will do well with children.
The wonderful thing about pets is that they love us unconditionally. Mine look at me like I am the most amazing and wonderful person in the world. Fortunately for me, cats and dogs overlook a lot. Now if I could just get my kids and husband to look at me that way!