Bella and I were readying ourselves for the beach, and our morning “to-do” list. It was that moment when we decided to try out a new beach in addition to visiting the Southampton Animal Shelter. What a great combination!
It really is a beautiful drive through the Pine Barrens, Montauk Highway and the waterfront of Hampton Bays. For those of you who haven’t been, the shelter is located right off Montauk Highway at exit 65 North. Whether you are coming out East or headed to New York City, it is a convenient place to stop in and see what animals are waiting for a new home. (The shelter is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.).
When we arrived, Bella was excited as she saw many animal friends out for their morning walk. Bella, better than anyone, appreciates what it means to get up and start the day. She looks forward to the first walk prior to her beach swim. Bella’s household wakes up early, so she never knows who will greet her first. It could be either Walter or Eugene. Those are her morning buddies. Today, it turned out to be her uncle Tony. Uncle Tony had just arrived from Miami to start planning the decor for the Southampton Hospital Summer Benefit (Saturday August, 6). Tony knows Bella’s keen sense of design and style. He thought the two of them could collaborate during the first walk of the day.
I must digress: Tony is known for his great style, passion for thrift shops, and finding hidden treasures and bargains. He asked Bella if she could introduce him to the new Southampton Animal Shelter Thrift Shop on Jobs Lane. Personally, I can’t wait to see them in action. What they come home with will surly be exciting and unexpected.
Back to the morning, a lot happens early in Bella’s world. Most important, Bella was ecstatic to make new friends. She also wanted to see if she could help find homes for the dogs and cats at the shelter. There was Murray, a cheerful Shih Tzu, who couldn’t be more special. Bella has two rescued Shih Tzu cousins (Peaches and Beau). What characters and great companions. There was Diamond, a spectacular chocolate Pitbull mix. Diamond has three legs and a heart of gold. His eyes tell it all.
Bella, who has two cat sisters and a brother, made her way into the cattery to say hello. Who cuddled up but Tiger! She is a gorgeous long-haired teenage kitten who came to the shelter with her sister Fluffy. The girls are devoted to each other. They would love to find a home where they could live together.
It is time for Bella to head out for her morning swim. Bella also needs to select napkins and ribbons for the weekend. Her mom is hosting a party for friends and animal lovers. Like mom, Bella wants all the details in order, and everything perfect for the guests. Bella is also dreaming of the buffet and possible leftovers.
Hope everyone had a great long weekend. Please stop in and make a new friend at the Southampton Animal Shelter, or at the Thrift Shop.
P.S.: When you visit the Southampton Animal Shelter, don’t forget to say hello to Cynthia and Lee at the front desk, Adrienne in the cattery, or Kathy who is a trainer. Lastly, as always, visit to find out about upcoming events, adoptions and how to get involved.
P.S.S.: Try and make it to Dan’s Potatohampton 5k on June 4. [/expand]
