Pet Parent's Name
Susan Burnette

A short paragraph (250 words or less) that tells voters something fun or interesting about the pet in the photo. For example, is this a LCHS adoptee or rescue dog? How long has he or she been a part of your family?
While waiting in the LCHS “Teenager Mother’s Room” for the crowd around the kitten enclose to clear, I first met Layla. Six cats were playing among the toys here, but one remained caged. Drawn by her resembling a former beloved pet, I approached her cage and read the several notes. Her name was Layla and she was rescued with her one kitten. The next notes declared “I do not like other cats, dogs or children.” Somewhat concerned, but imagining what Layla endured – I continued reading. “I’m recovering from an infection following surgery”, had lost a tooth, and lastly “You may take me out but be sure the other cats are caged.” After the other cats were put up, I opened Layla’s door. She allowed me to pet her and even licked my hand. I was charmed. Carefully, I placed her on the floor. Layla exploded! She went to every occupied cat cage and hung on to the doors, spitting hissing and hollering. When her routine finished, she settled back down. For the next 30 minutes she played with every toy there and entertained me, and I made my choice. Amazingly, my husband and I fit Layla’s criteria. Our children were grown and for the first time in 42 years we had no other pets. My husband was facing years battling a terminal illness and Layla, a permanent kitten, brought laughter on difficult days and eased the stress, fear, and sadness with her antics. She was and is a true blessing.