I’ve always loved animals and could never understand how anyone could hurt them. I can't imagine a home without them. After my first dog Misiek passed away, I knew I needed another pup in my life. He came from a rural family, but the rest of my animals came through adoption, mainly during my time volunteering with an animal welfare organization. I chose adoption because I’m deeply sensitive to animal suffering.

Two months after losing Misiek, I found Daisy. I didn’t have a strict set of requirements. I just wanted to adopt at a time when I could be present for the dog and ease their transition. The day before my university break, I saw a listing with a tiny black-and-tan puppy—and I just knew.

The rest of the animals found their way to me unexpectedly, initially as fosters. But each one ended up staying. Delta, a tiny kitten, was rescued in late October while I was feeding stray cats. She wouldn’t have survived the winter. Sonia came to us during an intervention—I took her from a neglectful owner. She had been living in awful conditions. Then came Sklejek and Mruczek, two brothers I fostered with their three sisters when they were just three weeks old. I rehomed the girls, but the boys stayed.

Most of my adoptions were done through the Animal Welfare Society, where I was an inspector and foster caregiver. I also participated in interventions, cared for feral cats, and it was through this work that I met my current furry family. 

I know animals from shelters desperately need homes. I don’t regret a single adoption. I believe anyone who wants a loving companion should absolutely adopt. Personally, I always preferred to save a life through adoption.

Since I worked within the organization, I also handled the adoption process myself. I never gave animals to just anyone—I checked knowledge, living conditions, and opinions on spaying/neutering. I stayed in touch with adopters and loved getting photos and updates. 

Each of my pets adapted differently. Daisy, a puppy when she arrived, stayed close to me at first but quickly warmed up. When Delta arrived, Daisy—then 10 months old—became her guardian. Delta had no prior contact with people, but I gave her time and patience.

Sonia was the easiest—she felt at home instantly despite her difficult past. Sklejek and Mruczek, being babies, gradually explored the house after staying in a playpen in my room.

I love them all simply because they’re here. Each animal deserves love and care. My cats aren’t super cuddly, but when they want affection, they come over. The dogs, on the other hand, love cuddles—Daisy is playful and vocal, Sonia is calm and collected. I’ll love them forever, no matter what. 

I know I’ll adopt again. Helping animals in need is always worth it. Shelters do their best, but nothing compares to the love and comfort we can offer in a real home.