My name is Catniss (some call me Kitty), and I am writing to you from the cozy corner of my favorite couch, nestled in the heart of my loving home. Some of you may recall my letters to the editor from previous dog issues.
As the delicate tendrils of my ninth and final life slip away, I purr my way into the great unknown. I feel compelled to share my thoughts once again in the annual dog issue. While I may be just a humble feline, I believe that even us whiskered companions have a paw print worth acknowledging. It is my hope that, in the spirit of unity among all creatures, these wishes may find a place in the hearts of your readers.
- Furst, I want to commend you on your annual dog issue. It's the one time of year when I graciously allow the canine chaos to hog the limelight. Bravo, Valley Reporter. Bravo. Perhaps someday you will finally come around to the idea of a dedicated cat issue. Alas, I wish that I could have lived to see that day.
- Let us celebrate the diversity of our animal kingdom. Cats, dogs, and the myriad of other creatures that share our homes each bring something unique to the tapestry of life. May this annual dog issue serve as a reminder that our differences are what make our world truly enchanting.
- In the realm of companionship, I urge humans to embrace the silence of a cat's purr as much as they relish the exuberance of a dog's tail-wagging. Both expressions of love are equally profound.
- Visit your local Human Society or Animal Rescue when looking for a pet. Consider the less than obvious choices. I am thankful Eli picked me even though I was awkwardly sitting in my litter box and Dad said, “Are you sure you want that one”?
- To my canine friends, how about thinking a bit more about where you poop and for heaven’s sake please refrain from eating it (and that goes for your puke, too.)
- To the dog owners, please follow the rules and keep your dogs leashed so they don’t jump up on people or chase us cats around. We can’t afford to lose more trails because of unruly canine behavior. Remember, not everyone loves your dog!
- When you visit the Warren Dog Park look for my name on the list of contributors and think of me and all your feline friends.
- To my good neighbor and old friend Denali, you’re the last pet left in the “hood” so be sure to keep an eye on things for me. I hope you think of me as you look across the road into my window.
- To my human neighbors Denise and Bob and their wonderful helper Mckayla, thank you so much for taking such good care of me when my people went away. I always appreciated your kindness and the significantly higher quality food you fed me.
As I lay here, surrounded by my family, I'm reminded of the laughter and camaraderie that dogs brought into my life (ummm… none.). So, let's raise a bowl of milk in honor of our canine compatriots and remember that, in the grand scheme of things, we're all just pets chasing our tails in this vast and whimsical world.
Thank you for allowing me this space to share my mew-sings. As my paw prints fade from this earthly realm, I do so with gratitude for the companionship I have enjoyed and the memories that will live on in the hearts of those who have loved me.
Furr-ever Yours,
The Late Catniss “Kitty” Friedman
Moretown, VT
