I'm often asked how or why I first got involved in animal welfare. While that is an interesting story and one I may share in the future, I am more interested in explaining why I've stayed and gradually increased my involvement.

It is for animals like Aaden.

Aaden was found wandering the streets of Milwaukee and taken to animal control. He sat for seven days and was not reclaimed by an owner. He sat another two weeks waiting for transfer to a local humane society or rescue group and was continually passed by because he was reportedly "too old."

When alerted that there was an adoptable dog facing euthanasia at animal control, volunteers with the Companion Animal Resource and Adoption Center went to meet him. They were instantly smitten!

While Aaden is probably at least around 6 years old, he is full of life and love and prospering in foster care where he is playing and cuddling with the resident dog and cat.

Aaden prefers to think of himself as "mature" rather than "old" and would like you to be aware of the benefits of adopting him over a puppy or young dog.

He is full grown; his habits and tendencies are established and well-known yet he is still eager to learn new tricks; he is grateful and respectful; he requires little maintenance.

Animals like Aaden are often forgotten and it is for animals like him that organizations like ours exist.

Please visit Aaden and all of our animals for adoption 24 hours a day at www.companionanimal.org! Dogs are available for viewing in person every Saturday at Petsmart (in Greenfield) from noon to 2 p.m. and cats are available for viewing during open hours at the Adoption Center located in the upper level of Southridge Mall.