Sadie Mae

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I grew up on a remote farm in Ontario, with my brother, and two sisters. Fields were our playgrounds, the woods served as the perfect setting for games of hide-and-seek. Splashing about in ditches, catching tadpoles and frogs was the best fun. Books borrowed from the library in town ignited my imagination. The beauty of nature surrounding us, later inspired me to paint, from memories in my soul. It was the animals that captured and nurtured my heart, making me the person I am today. I feel so incredibly lucky to have grown up with them as my companions. I was a sensitive child, finding solace in the barns. It was the best therapy. Whatever was bothering me soon disappeared completely from my mind. I would laugh endlessly, as 'Maple' the goat nibbled on my pant legs, or fall into a meditative trance, under the hypnotic influence of the 'red-eyed, twitching nose' of a soft, white rabbit.

I struggled through my teenage years and left home as soon as I could. After my grandparents passed away, the contents of our farm were auctioned off, the remaining animals found new homes and my parents moved into a nearby town. I moved to England and fell in love with the hustle, bustle of the city. I worked for an airline and visited different cities, in different countries and learned about other cultures. I enjoyed my new found freedom, yet felt that something was missing from my life. I met a wonderful man and together we adopted a feline family: Charlie and her brother Oscar. Soon after, I realized, it had been the companionship of the animals I was missing: a connection, with those who listen whole-heartedly and without judgment, whose affections are genuine and without agenda. I truly believe I am a better person for the influence my animal companions have had on me.

Henry, my first dog as an adult, is a puppy-mill rescue. When I adopted Henry, my life changed completely. After learning of the horrible conditions and treatment these 'milled' animals endure, I investigated further and my research has led to many other causes. Along the way, I have met some truly amazing individuals that I am happy to call friends. I feel like I'm home again.

To my animal friends: I promise to do whatever I can, to speak up for you whenever I can and to be open to each lesson and opportunity presented to me, to make this world a better place for you.