Animal Rescue. For some, these two words are inspiring, bringing a sense of respect, appreciation, and excitement. For others, those same two words may invoke questions, concern, sadness, or even a bit of fear. All of these reactions are valid. The ways in which we participate in, and are aware of, rescuing animals in need are as varied and complex as the individual animals themselves.

Over the years I have had the privilege and pleasure of working with rescue organizations in a variety of ways. I have transported animals from one foster home to another; interviewed prospective adoptive families; and volunteered in animal shelters. And of course, I have worked with countless rescued animals through my animal communication practice. My respect and admiration for animal rescue volunteers and the families who adopt rescued cats, horses, dogs and other pets is immeasurable. When these volunteers and adoptive families open their homes and their hearts to animals in need, the love and companionship  received in return are often much more than ever expected.

True, while there are many heartwarming stories of successful rescue, there are some difficult stories as well. Some animals are rescued from abuse, abandonment, or worse. Many animals can overcome a difficult past; others may be challenged to ever again believe in humankind. Oftentimes the word "rescue" leads us to assume the worst possible scenario. It is important to keep in mind, however, that some animals are placed in shelters and rescue organizations out of love for the animal. Their loving human guardian may have passed away; those in the military may be relocated indefinitely overseas; or a change in family dynamic may make finding a new home in the best interest of the pet.

Just as we may have preferences on the type of animal we hope to adopt, trust me, some animals have preference on the family they choose to adopt too! I have worked with animals who have a very clear - and firm! - sense of the type of family that would be best for them. I recall the cat who requested to find a home where he can hunt his own food outside, to the dog who hoped to have kids to play with, to the horse who wanted to run wild on the prairie. Some animals would like other animal companions in their new home; some prefer being the only four-legged of the family. Some animals simply want a loving home and make no further requests.

No matter the reason for being up for adoption, animals are generally exceptionally forgiving. Many of the rescued animals I work with are simply in need of reassurance that their new, loving home is indeed their "forever home" and they have a place in the new family. With this reassurance, they quickly adapt to their new environment. Some animals are willing to talk about their past; others simply want to move on. Sometimes behaviors surface which are related to previous experiences. Once understood, these "rescue behaviors" can often be worked out to a satisfying outcome.

Every animal and every family's story is different. Rescued animals may not be the right fit for every family. There is no right or wrong, and I commend all responsible pet guardians, no matter how their pets came to them. For those who have rescued, and those who will open their home in the future to rescued animals, THANK YOU. Your willingness to open your home, your heart, and your life to an animal in need is selfless beyond measure.  For the countless rescue volunteers and foster and adoptive families, THANK YOU for all you do. The animals whose lives you impact thank you too!

Artwork images provided by Anne Leuck Feldhaus; Anne Leuck Feldhaus Studios, Ltd.