February 16, 2007, A dog named Bronson, By Mauri Formigoni

Bronson was found in the campo, a skinny puppy, nearly dead. The woman who found her couldn’t resist Bronson, so she took this tiny, sad pup to the vet to be cared for and then brought him to her small apartment. Nine months later, due to circumstances beyond her control, she regretfully brought Bronson to us.

Now we have this sweet, energetic, young, healthy, neutered male. He is a special pet, not a stray, and is in the wrong place. It is hard to see him waiting and waiting, and his original owner cannot bear to visit but sends him treats and toys. This is a good but energetic dog that needs room to run and someone who will love him. He will reward his rescuer with great affection and loyalty. He is worth a chance. He has proven himself as a pet that lived with another dog and a cat, and he likes children. He is a good boy who needs a second chance.

Cucho is a beautiful young spotted male cat, looking for all the world like a wild, rare species. He has a soft, smooth tan coat with random black spots, like a cheetah. But he is not a wild child and openly seeks affection from anyone entering the male cat house.

He longs for an owner who will love him, fondle him and play with him. He is a singularly handsome cat and he deserves more respect than he gets with so many male cats in our cat house. He is very handsome and seems to know it. He is neutered, has all his shots, and is ready to go. Wouldn’t you love a designer cat? They are breeding them now, but none more exotic or guapo than Cucho.

We recently received a nice inheritance that will provide the SPA with needed improvements in our physical space as well as a salary for a new shelter manager. At the university where I worked, we had someone who discussed with enthusiastic supporters the possibility of bequeathing money to organizations they cared about but to which they could not contribute at the time. One of our board members, I. M. Sheffield, has offered to be a contact person to discuss how this can be managed and even how certain concerns can be targeted in the distant future. It is an easy way to make a difference to us and others charities with great and deserving needs. Please consider this and call I. M. at 152-4345.

The SPA is open Monday through Friday, 10am to noon, for veterinarian appointments (call 152-6124) and noon to 2 pm for visiting the animals and volunteer work. We still need more help. We are located at Los Pinos 7, just off Calzada de la Estación, a continuation of Canal. Join us in the Jardín on Thursdays from 11:15am–1:15pm, when we show off some of our favorite animals.

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.