From a young age, I have always had pets. This really grew my love for animals. Even when I was young, I would always use my dad’s binoculars to watch birds or lookout for squirrels and deer on car rides. I have always been passionate about helping others and that has greatly translated into my love for taking care of animals. I have dedicated a lot of my time to volunteering at my local animal shelter! I usually help clean out the dog cages, feed the animals and help socialize the young or shy animals. This volunteer work has brought my life so much meaning. It feels so good to be able to give back to those who are so vulnerable. I have always been interested in all types of animals and not just regular pets. I used to collect all types of different stuffed animals as a child and then me and my mom would research facts about them. One experience that really changed my outlook on helping animals is my old cat Boo. We got Boo on halloween from a rescue. He was the runt of the litter of cats that the rescue found stranded near a highway. Once we took Boo home he was obsessed with my family, specifically me and my sister. Whenever we would leave for school he would wait at the door for hours until we would get home. He always greeted us with the sweetest face and nicest meows. Unfortunately when he was about 9 months old he got very sick. We soon found out that he had cat cancer, something that was untreatable. We were advised to put him down. This completely shattered me. I was only 7 and this cat had become such a big part of my life. When my parents told me about what had to be done my heart was broken. For the next few days my family and I spent all our time with Boo. We gave him endless treats and snuggles and let him know how much we loved him. Boo passed away at home the night of my brother’s birthday. Before he passed he entered every one of my family members room and sat for a moment. He truly was the best cat. Once he passed I knew I wanted to do something to help animals. All I wanted was for Boo’s sickness to be cured and there was nothing I can do. My goal is to help as many animals as I can and maybe even help find the cure to diseases that cause death and pain in animals everyday.