Last year around this time, I am not ashamed to say that I spent most of my spare time watching videos about fostering kittens and scrolling through countless cat photos on Instagram. As long as I can remember, I have been a full on cat lady. In elementary school, I used to cut out photos of cats from magazines and hang them on my walls and collect cat stuffed animals whom I loved dearly.
After years of longing for a cat, I was finally able to adopt Rosie, my emotional support animal (ESA) on May 29, 2021. My psychologist recommended her as a way for me to expose myself to triggers caused by my OCD. Rosie is my dependent, so even if I do not feel like taking care of myself, I have to take care of her. When I first got Rosie, I was not able to pet her without immediately washing my hands. Now, I am mostly okay with her licking my face, and I even wash her water bowl in the kitchen sink rather than the bathtub. This may sound silly, but it is actually huge progress for me.
To anyone with a mental illness, I fully recommend an ESA. I have noticed an overall improvement in my mood since adopting Rosie. Regardless of what is going on in my life, Rosie remains a constant, albeit one who must be entertained at 6am when she decides I need to play with her. An emotional support animal can be useful to different people for different reasons. Rosie helps me with my OCD, but having a dependant gives you a new sense of purpose. It makes you feel needed in a way that you may not have experienced before. When Rosie puked five times in a row, I needed to clean it up and rush to the vet (to find out that she was totally fine). This was an incredibly stressful experience, but I got through it and learned that I could get through it.
I love cats so much, but I do not recommend adopting an animal unless you know that you will provide for them the same care that they provide for you. An animal is a responsibility, but it is manageable. I can leave her alone for the afternoon, and her insurance, food, and litter are much more affordable than I expected.
In conclusion, if you love cats and you think that having one might improve your wellbeing, absolutely adopt one. I can assure you, having a pet will help you learn that you are a lot stronger than you realize.
About Us
The Argosy is the independent student journal of news, opinion, and the arts. Our content is written, edited, and funded by the students of Mount Allison University in Sackville, New Brunswick.
I am a fourth-year English major from Halifax, NS. This is my second year as Co-Editor-in-Chief and third year on The Argosy team. The Argosy has been the highlight of my time at Mt. A. I look forward to sharing more stories and making lasting memories with the wonderful team of students at The Argosy this year.
This is my third year with The Argosy and my second editing the Arts and Culture section. From Moncton NB, I study English and drama - aspiring storyteller of SOME kind - and learned how to spell ridiculous three months ago. Say hi and share your story anytime! (She/Her)
As a
news reporter this year I
am excited to learn more
about the people of
Sackville.
Hailing from the majestic Himalayas, I have always been captivated by the breathtaking beauty of the mountains. It is through this admiration that I discovered my profound passion for photography. I am beyond excited to bring my enthusiasm, dedication, and love for capturing moments to The Argosy team.
