Many students on campus had to leave their pets at home when they came to school. Victoria Forkus, UMPI’s AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer, organized a trip for students to visit the Aroostook County Humane Society. At the shelter, animals had the chance to get some much-needed attention from affectionate students.
Forkus planned the trip for students to have the full college experience, which to her includes getting involved with the community.
Saturday, September 24, UMPI students set out to the Central Aroostook Humane Society. The volunteers there were very nice and pointed students in the direction of the cats that don’t get much attention from the public. The next two hours were spent petting and playing with cats that were looking for homes. The cats were all loveable and had their own personalities, despite being in a transition period in their lives. Being able to spend time with these animals was a truly great experience for students.
“It’s good to bring the community together and to talk and have fun,” Tiffany Smith, who went on the trip to see the animals since she had to leave her pets at home, said.
At the shelter, students had the opportunity to meet Nester a 20-pound 3-year-old black cat. He was surrendered because he didn’t get along with the other male cats at his previous home. He’s a sassy and playful cat that loves to be petted. He doesn’t like to be picked up though, so a home with small children probably wouldn’t be his best fit. He is neutered and friendly, and has been at the shelter since the beginning of May. If anyone could give this big guy a laid-back “forever home” you can bet he’d sure love to meet you.
