Harrison

Over 15 months ago in August 2021, we were contacted about a senior boy, 17 years old, who had been surrendered to a shelter. Lots of reasons were given as to why but one was because he was getting too many colds and was always sneezing. More about that to come!

We fell in love with this beautiful tuxie boy as soon as we saw his picture! We had room in the Oasis part of the sanctuary at the time, so his bags were packed, and Harrison was on his way. As soon as he arrived, we were all under his spell. He was so handsome with his beautiful eyes, he was so playful and did not act like a 17 year old at all. Over the past 15 months that Harrison has been with us, we can honestly say he has been a joy to have around. And to say he has been a character is an understatement!

Harrison may have been a senior but he had so much playfulness in him. He would always be sitting on the kitchen counter, always looking for something to knock on the floor – a jar of treats, a food dish, anything really that took his fancy! One of his favorite activities was making what the staff affectionately called “Harrison Soup.” He would take mouthfuls of kitty kibble and take it to the water bowl and just sprinkle it in. He was always so proud of his creations. On top of all that he was always looking for any extra food that might be handed out. When the staff had lunch Harrison was there on the counter front and center. He was known to almost steal a bite of their sandwich as they were eating. Always so gentle about it though and acted like the perfect gentleman. Always looking at you with the most stunning big eyes. We had some wonderful conversations with him and as he would gaze at us, we felt he was looking into our souls. And he gave the best head bumps whilst purring so loud!

So, about the sneezing, yes, our dear boy did sneeze a lot, and sometimes ’things’ would fly so sandwiches needed to be shielded! He had allergies and we gave him meds every day but it was just part of who he was, we didn’t care, so we would just wipe his nose and clean him up, and he was such a good sport about that too!

Precious Harrison had been losing weight of late. We were monitoring him very closely, but a few days ago it became evident that he was not feeling well. At 18 and a 1/4 years old, time and declining health issues had caught up with our handsome Tuxie boy and he looked at us with those stunning eyes and told us it was his time, he was tired.

Harrison passed ever so gently and peacefully this morning cradled in loving arms surrounded by all those who cared for him every day. Although he did not spend all his life with us, the 15 months that he did spend here were filled with love every day. You made us smile all the time, Harrison, with your antics. We will cherish all the wonderful memories you have left us with. You will be missed beyond measure. Oh how we loved you – you were an absolute sweetheart and a favorite of so many. The kitchen counter will be a little emptier without you being there.

Fly high on your wings, Harrison. You are gone from our lives but will never be gone from our hearts, here you will stay forever. Rest easy, our precious boy. Our thanks to all who loved and cared for Harrison near and far, our staff, volunteers, and his sponsors.