Years ago, our backyard had been completely fenced in, but time and storm had done their work. There was no way the cats could have their freedom and their safety both. So they continued to go out with leashes and harnesses, each with a human in tow. I remember trying to hang onto Missy’s leash as she raced across the yard and up a small tree. I am not much of a runner, and she is a champion, so I was fairly winded by the time she came to rest about a foot above my head.
This was all great sport for the cats, but not so much for the humans. For one thing, it took two of us to escort the cats outside. One couldn’t do it alone: if the cats wanted to go different directions it was wishbone time! And two people were not always free and willing.
For another, the humans could do nothing else but hang onto cats. It seems a waste of time.
So we decided to tether the cats to a pole. The leashes were short, so we added lengths of rope. Now they could lie in the grass, chase bugs and enjoy the sunlight without danger. And the humans could weed flower beds or clean the pool.
This was satisfactory up to a point. From time to time, a bird would land just outside the cats’ territory. Provoked, the cats would launch themselves toward the trespasser only to be jerked to a sudden stop when they reached the end of their rope. Their frustration was palpable.
Then too, Archie quickly learned how to get out of his harness. At first we could not figure out how he did it, but one day we observed him go to the farthest end, turn around and “back” out of the harness, letting the rope pull it over his head. it was a neat trick and very effective.
We were glad that Archie was the one who thought of it first, since the only place he ever wanted to go was back in the house. But Missy was bright and we were afraid that she would catch on. And she wanted to go anywhere and everywhere! Clearly, if the cats were to continue to go out, additional precautions needed to be taken.
(To be continued…)
Lord, You continue to protect and keep me safe, sometimes against my will. But I wonder: do I give You as much joy and pleasure as my cats give me? I hope so. Amen