Cats are Remarkable Companions
Breeding kittens for others to own is a great occupation when done correctly. They give many years of pleasure and love especially to a family who seeks that kind of pet.
Star is no exception. She was one of a litter orphaned at just 7 weeks old when her mother suddenly deserted them. The illegal fireworks discharged at midnight was probably the cause. So the litter made it into the local paper, the Canberra Times, and were photographed to accompany their story.
A Proper Campaign was Started
Star, who stayed, was then photographed another 3 times over the next 2 years in an effort to sway the government to ban fireworks in the Australian Capital Territory. Her beautiful nature and understanding along with her gentleness and gorgeous looks made her a star in reality but it is the five pointed star on her side that named her. It is stark white on the black fur and it really stands out.
The Protest Grew
Others joined in the protest and before long the government was listening. Meetings were held and talk back radio was buzzing with the damage fireworks do to the community. Even a local minister had his cat photographed after it had been tied to a pole with a firework hooked onto its back.
After 3 years of campaigning with Star the main focus the fireworks in the ACT were banned for good.
One Cannot Imagine the Suffering
Animals have feelings and the frightening noise of crackers that explode like bombs is a stress they don't need in their lives. Dead birds were dropping from the sky when the rockets and other things killed them over the weeks they were being let off. Baby birds were found tossed out of their nests and kangaroos and other wildlife were killed on the roads as they fled in fright.
Although Star is a pampered, spoiled and a loving companion she has brought more joy and pleasure into the lives of other animals who no longer have to face the horror of cracker night. She has born several litters that have made many families very happy and she loves her kittens to the fullest extent.
She is now an indoor cat and her kittens are born and reared inside and the new owners are reminded to continue this way of rearing them. Indoor cats face less problems and if Star's mum had been inside at the time she would not have faced whatever sad end she endured.
