November 10, 2006, Oldies, but goodies, By Mauri Formigoni

One of my much-cherished duties at the SPA is visiting the animals after hours on the weekends. They are quiet, a bit depressed, and hungry for human interaction. They are so vulnerable. There are many brown dogs with black muzzles that try hard to make contact with someone—anyone—and push their paws to you through the gate.

Holding paws is a big source of connection, as my big dog has taught me. One of the young shepherd pups began showing off with what I thought was a bone, but turned out to be a stick, just as cherished and valuable. She was proud to display her new possession. Intense eye contact is highly desirable and necessary. I find myself promising too many dogs that one day someone worthy will recognize their value and take them away from here. And I mean it. I wish it for each of them.

Many of our best adoptions are with experienced dogs. They are so grateful and able to revive their initial joie de vivre when they arrive at a new home. There is no penalty for adopting a seasoned dog with some time in her background. Mollie, a favorite of mine, was adopted by a member of our board of directors, and it is a match made in heaven. There have been other successes, too. These dogs are waiting, not rotting. They can get better with time, not worse. They are hanging on time, and they tell me each Sunday night, please, find me a home. Please consider our experienced dogs, as well as the newcomers. They have a wealth of feelings to share with you.

One of my favorites is Tellina, a scruffy pile of grey curls that has been groomed several times and returns to her natural state in 15 minutes. What a face! Can you look at her and stay serious? She is irresistible, messy ’do and all. Her curls are soft and so don’t hold for long, but she is so affectionate and eager for contact that you wonder why she wasn’t snapped up on week one. She is the Shirley MacLaine of dogs and gets along well with other dogs, children, and, as far as we know, cats, though she has had limited experience with cats. Funny and loving, she is a hit in every way! Give her a minute and see if you aren’t smitten.

I walked into the female cat housing area and a cascade of caramel-colored hair careening from a girl cat that took her time to acknowledge me. And when she did, turning slowly toward me, I saw a tricolored calico that has gained weight and an abundance of hair since arriving at the SPA. She is a glamorous marvel, but richer and more luxurious than her photo shows. Some get better here. There is steady food, protection and medication, and the animals can relax and feel good after a stressful life on the streets. I have a weakness for long-haired cats, and this one is a beauty. Come see for yourself.

We need additional pet talkers and holders. If you are experiencing an absence of fur in your life, please consider volunteering. Call me at 154-5930 or drop by Monday through Friday from noon to 2pm. Clinic hours are 10am to 2pm. Call 152-6124 for an appointment. We are at Los Pinos 7, just off Calzada de la Estación, across from the bus station. Come on Thursdays to the Jardín. We are there from 11:15am to 1:15pm with a few of our babies to show off. You can also find us on the web at www.spasanmiguel.org

Mauri Formigoni is an Associate Professor of Visual Arts at the University of Illinois, a long-time San Miguel resident and a lifelong animal lover. She can be reached at 154-5930 to answer questions.