'Weird' can be wonderful

'Young and pretty' are valued qualities in more than just pop stars and models.

Animals beyond the universally cute baby stage often find themselves looked-over if they should find themselves in a shelter or at animal control facilities.

Take Marisa and Melinda, for example. Both girls are domestic short hair (DSH) 'torties', with a multi-colored swirl in their coats. Both have been at the Safe Animal Shelter in Middleburg since 2005 as very young kittens. And both are still at the shelter today.

There's nothing wrong with them. They're just different.

As Don Wright of Safe explains, "We have many cats and are anxious for the ones that have so much tenure there. Some, like Marisa, are wonderful kitties, but because she is a "Tortie" with a typically weird pattern, she is passed by."

While there are plenty of beds and playmates at the shelter, it's no dream home for any pet. That's where Clay residents come in.

Safe Animal Shelter is located at 2913 County Road 220 in Middleburg. Call them at 276-7233 or visit them online at www.safeanimalshelter.com. All animals are spayed/neutered prior to adoption.

Can't adopt right now? Then forward this page on to someone who can!

MARISA: This little soft furred beauty came into the shelter on 5/10/2005 as a very young stray kitten. She is sweet and lovable and gets along well with people and other cats. Marisa is a great choice for a wonderful pet in a loving family and is often seen sitting in our cattery window greeting guests.

MELINDA: Melinda was found as a stray and entered the shelter on 6/26/2005 at 8 weeks of age and obviously has spent all of her life here. She is a sweet kitty and gets along well with both cats and people. A good choice for that family offering a loving home.