I've been so impressed with Hawk lately- he's adjusted to the move very well. Even though he hides, he is still out and about at night, but now he has a partner in crime. Last night sounded like the tiniest of NASCAR races- they were definitely running around- maybe playing? I don’t know, I didn’t think Hawk knew how to play, but maybe Bandit is teaching that old boy some new tricks.
Playing isn’t the only thing little Bandit has taught Hawk though. It seems she’s taught him a bit of love and affection, too. I knew that Hawk and Bandit were pals, but I guess I didn't realize how good of friends they've become in the short time they've been together. Today, while I was peeking under the bed saying 'hi' to Hawk, Bandit came in and peeked under the bed too. Hawk didn't pay her any mind and then Bandit surprised me and scooted under the bed, crawled over to Hawk and started cleaning his ears and licking the top of his head. (Yes- the same ears that he doesn't like touched.)
Because he’s still a bit of a mystery to me, I assumed that he was just tolerating her nurturing, but Hawk closed his eyes, his necked stretched out, his chin lowered to the floor and Bandit went to work. After a few good broad licks across the top of the head, Bandit turned around and sat down next to him like, “So there!”, and Hawk’s one eye opened like, “Aw man…”.
I was really nervous letting these two loose in the house together because Hawk came from such a bad place and Bandit came from such a Bad Cat, I didn’t know what to expect, but to see this today was just amazing. And sweet and reassuring and more then I could have hoped for. I think Bandit is acting like a mediator between us humans and Hawk. I like to think that she is telling him all the cool things about being a cat in our house and all the things he can get away with and showing him how to have fun. I think she helps him come out of his shell a little each night whether it’s sitting in the window together or doing laps around the house or just accepting love and kindness from another being, I think she is teaching him that even though his heart was hurt in the past, it will never be again. Not in this place.
8 comments:
This is fantastic e!!!
-E
Hawk looks great! The cats from the GKR have been through so much and it is hard for them to learn to trust humans. But, I have seen them transform time and time again - even in my own home. And I see them learn from each other and the other cats and continue to grow even after having been with us for over a year for Sylvester and two years for Kermit. One thing about the cats from the GKR, even though many are still fearful, I believe they know that we humans saved them and they are some of the nicest cats I've ever met.
@ Kermit Mitchell- thanks:) We're impressed with Hawk's bravery everyday and me going into this with no expectations had made it all the more thrilling:)
Found my way here from Hawk's adoption story on the Best Friends, and now I'm sitting here sniffling. For a cat that's not too fond of people, he's sure touched a lot of hearts.
And sometimes the best teachers for animals are other animals. It sounds like Bandit is determined to give your boy all the lovin' he's not ready to accept from people yet.
Bookmarking the blog so I can continue reading about Hawk's progress.
@Becky- thank you! I'm glad that you bookmarked it. Hopefully you won't get tired of under-the-bed photos haha:)
And I agree- I think Bandit is really good for Hawkstar. They really connected quickly- not even one fight. I think she knew he wouldn't be a problem and fell in love with him right away (just like me!) :P
Mommy and I just read Hawk's story on Best Friend's site. Your kitty looks really happy. I'd love to play with him, but Mommy says I might scare him. I only want to play.
Sally Ann
I work at Best Friends and I just wanted to say thank you for giving Hawk such a great new life. Love that you have a blog --- I'm booking marking you now! :)
@Jill thank you for bookmarking! I love that all of these new people are following and bookmarking. I tell Hawk everyday about all the love he has around and his reply is a blink like "Yeah, I know..." :) Thanks again and spread the word at BF :) Thanks again!
Post a Comment