Back to the newsletter<<

Pets for us have been an increasingly growing hobby.  Of course, we balance it out with work and family so it isn’t out of control, but it is certainly starting to take off for us.  Since there are so many unwanted pets in this commitment-challenged nation, we believe in adoption.

Here is one adoption site: www.1-800-save-a-pet.com.  Most states have specific adoption organizations for the major breeds.

There is a risk factor and extra work load involved with adopting, but we feel a sense of responsibility.  Our first rescue was a giant cat named “Little” and she is the best cat a cat hater could have.  We both adore her.  Our second rescue was Ernie our basset hound who was more work than we really cared for but is turning out to be a pretty good dog. He was a stud dog in a puppy mill in Great Falls when many people from the City of Missoula pitched in to buy him "away." He was very malnouished and beaten often so the police department took him in for awhile and when all was said and done we were the fortunate owners.

We want the kids to grow up around animals and have found with each additional pet, the responsibility for it integrates nicely in our day and doesn’t take up a lot of effort.  Since we don’t want pets to take up too much of our lives, efficiency is critical.  Two great sites for pet information are  www.drsfostersmith.com and www.peteducation.com.

Our newest addition has been a hobby in itself and Christian loves every minute of it.  We have gotten into fresh water aquariums for fish, crabs and to grow aquatic plants. There is an incredible science to it and Christian often looks like a chemist, measuring substances in the water and making sure there is the right balance of CO2, minerals, bacteria, etc. creating a self sufficient harmony between fish, plant, and environment. A site he is often found on is:  www.liveaquaria.com. 

Our goal, once we understand the mountain of knowledge in creating a healthy aquarium, is to move on to salt water as we both have fond memories of our time near tropical oceans.  In a way, it would be bringing the ocean we love so much home with us.  What is also nice financially is that people get into this hobby not knowing how to develop an aquarium or having the discipline to maintain it. Some incredible deals can be found to get into an otherwise very expensive hobby. Christian goes to Craigslist and there is an infinite amount of stuff there.

Back to the newsletter<<